Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

Introduction

There’s something magical about combining the comfort of a cheeseburger with the crispy delight of an egg roll. When I first made these cheeseburger egg rolls for my family, I wasn’t sure how they would react. After all, this was a bold twist on two well-loved staples. To my delight, they were an instant hit! The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of pickle flavor wrapped in a crunchy shell was enough to get everyone excited. Not only did they love the taste, but they also enjoyed the fun of dipping them into a tangy sauce. These cheeseburger egg rolls have quickly become a favorite in our household, perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup pickles, diced (optional, for a classic cheeseburger flavor)
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Egg Rolls:

• 12 egg roll wrappers
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Dipping Sauce (optional):

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice (from the jar) or diced pickles
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Be sure to break up the beef as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded cheese, mustard, ketchup, diced pickles (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the mixture. Once everything is well-mixed, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Egg Rolls:

3. Prepare the Wrapper: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you. This positioning will help you roll it up easily.
4. Fill and Roll: Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheeseburger filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly. Use a bit of water to seal the top corner to keep it closed.
5. Repeat: Continue this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until all are assembled.

Fry the Egg Rolls:

6. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat 1-2 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
7. Fry: Carefully place a few egg rolls in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):

8. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the ingredients to your preference for a tangier or creamier dip.

Serve:

9. Enjoy: Serve the cheeseburger egg rolls warm with the dipping sauce on the side. These little bites of joy make for the perfect appetizer, snack, or party food!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 14g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm right after frying for the best crunch.
• Accompany with the dipping sauce on the side.
• Garnish with extra chopped pickles or parsley for a fresh touch.

Additional Tips

1. Use Lean Meat: For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken.
2. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
3. Baking Option: If you prefer a lighter version, brush the egg rolls with oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the egg rolls just before frying.
5. Control the Spiciness: Adjust the amount of mustard and pickle according to your heat preference.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans for a plant-based alternative.
• Add Vegetables: Include finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms in the filling for added flavor and texture.
• Spicy Version: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these egg rolls with a side of French fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with classic cheeseburger sides like coleslaw or potato salad for a fun twist.
• Perfect for game day or parties, serve alongside a variety of dips.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Freeze uncooked egg rolls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Fry from frozen without thawing.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, as microwaving may make them soggy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Yes, brush them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
2. What can I use instead of ground beef?
   Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes work well.
3. How do I prevent egg rolls from bursting while frying?
   Ensure they are sealed tightly, and don’t overcrowd the oil.
4. Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the egg rolls in advance.
5. What can I serve with cheeseburger egg rolls?
   French fries, a fresh salad, or various dipping sauces complement them well.
6. Can I use other cheese types?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
7. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
   Use a thermometer to check, or drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles and browns quickly, it’s ready.
8. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
   Yes, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra flavor.
9. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven.
10. What dipping sauces pair well with these egg rolls?
    Besides the suggested sauce, ranch, BBQ sauce, or sriracha mayo also work great.

Conclusion

These cheeseburger egg rolls offer a delicious and fun way to enjoy the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a crispy, portable format. With their savory filling and crunchy exterior, they make a delightful appetizer, snack, or meal option. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game, or just looking for something new to try, these egg rolls will surely impress your family and friends. Try them out, and watch them disappear!

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