Imagine biting into a crispy egg roll filled with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. These Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Eggrolls are a delightful fusion of American comfort food and Asian-inspired appetizers. They’re perfect for parties, game day snacks, or even a fun dinner. The filling is a delicious mix of savory ground beef, crispy turkey bacon, melted cheese, tangy pickles, and aromatic garlic and onions, all wrapped in a crunchy egg roll wrapper. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 4 slices of turkey bacon
- ½ white onion, diced
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ cup diced pickles or pickle relish
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
For the Egg Roll Wrappers:
- 15 to 20 egg roll or wonton wrappers
- ¼ cup cold water
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough to fill a skillet to about ½ inch deep)
For Serving:
- Your favorite dipping sauce (suggested: Big Mac-style sauce made with ketchup, mayonnaise, and pickle relish)
Instructions
Prepare the Turkey Bacon:
- Cook the Turkey Bacon:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the turkey bacon slices until crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the turkey bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool. Once cooled, chop it into small pieces and set aside.
Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Sauté Garlic and Onion:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break up the beef with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
- Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Combine Ingredients:
- Mix in the Turkey Bacon, Pickles, and Cheese:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped turkey bacon, diced pickles, and shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well combined.
Prepare the Egg Roll Wrappers:
- Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. This will act as the glue to seal the egg roll wrappers.
- Fill the Wrappers:
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Brush the edges with the cornstarch mixture using a pastry brush.
- Place approximately 3 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto one edge of the wrapper, about ½ inch from the sides. Fold in the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom, ensuring it is securely sealed.
Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to reach about ½ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, place a small piece of egg roll wrapper in the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry the egg rolls, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or a cooling rack to drain any excess oil.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve Warm:
- Serve the Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Eggrolls warm with your favorite dipping sauce. For a Big Mac-style sauce, mix ketchup with mayonnaise and add pickle relish for a tangy, creamy dip.
Notes
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Dipping Sauces: Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or a spicy aioli to complement the flavors of the egg rolls.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the egg rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying. This makes them convenient for party prep.
- Freezing: Uncooked egg rolls can be frozen on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
- Can I bake the egg rolls instead of frying them?
- Yes, you can bake the egg rolls for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
- Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to avoid excessive grease in the filling. If using a fattier blend, make sure to drain the fat thoroughly after cooking.
- Can I use different wrappers?
- Yes, you can use wonton wrappers for smaller, bite-sized egg rolls, or even spring roll wrappers for a lighter, crispier texture.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.
- Can I add vegetables to the filling?
- Absolutely! Finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
These Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Eggrolls are a fun and delicious appetizer that combines the best of both worlds: the savory goodness of a cheeseburger and the crispy delight of an egg roll. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a unique snack, these egg rolls are sure to impress. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear!