
Love the spicy, cheesy goodness of jalapeno poppers? Want a crispy, guilt-free snack that’s ready in minutes? You’re in the right place! Air fryers have revolutionized how we cook at home, delivering perfectly crispy treats with little to no oil. These jalapeno popper egg rolls combine the best of both worlds—spicy jalapenos, gooey cheese, and a golden, crunchy egg roll wrapper—all without the mess of deep frying. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!
Table of contents
- Why Make Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer?
- Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
- Jalapenos: Fresh, Spicy, and Flavorful
- Cream Cheese: The Creamy Base for the Filling
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a Sharp, Cheesy Kick
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: For an Extra Flavor Boost
- Bacon (Optional): For Added Crunch and Flavor
- Egg Roll Wrappers: Store-Bought for Convenience
- Cooking Spray: To Achieve That Crispy, Golden Finish
- How to Make Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Tips for the Perfect Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
- Variations and Add-Ins
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
- How to Store and Reheat Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
- Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Why Make Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer?
Let’s be honest—deep frying at home is a hassle. If you’ve ever tried it, you know the drill: splattering oil everywhere, your house smelling like a fast-food joint for days, and the cleanup? Brutal. I remember trying to deep fry something once, and after all that effort, I thought, Never again. That’s when I decided to give the air fryer a shot, and it completely changed the way I make crispy snacks.
If you’ve never tried making egg rolls in the air fryer, you’re seriously missing out. Here’s why it’s a game-changer.
A Healthier Alternative to Deep Frying
Deep-fried snacks are delicious—no denying that. But all that oil? Not exactly ideal when you’re trying to keep things a little lighter. With an air fryer, you get that crispy, golden texture without the need for a vat of oil. Just a quick spray of cooking oil is all you need to achieve that perfect crunch.
When I first made jalapeno popper egg rolls in the air fryer, I was shocked by how crispy they turned out. The cheese was gooey, the jalapenos had just the right kick, and the wrapper had that perfect crunch. Honestly, you won’t even miss the deep fryer. Plus, fewer calories means you can eat more of them, right? That’s how I justify it, anyway.
Quicker and Easier Cooking Process
Another reason I love the air fryer? It’s fast. Preheating an air fryer takes just a few minutes, compared to the time it takes to heat a pot of oil on the stove. And the cooking process is way more hands-off. You don’t have to stand over a hot stove, flipping egg rolls and worrying about burning them. Just pop them in the basket, set the timer, and let the air fryer do its thing.
I’ve made these for parties, and I’m not exaggerating when I say people always ask for the recipe. They think I’ve spent hours in the kitchen, but really, I threw everything together, hit a few buttons, and spent the rest of the time hanging out with guests. It’s a win-win.
Perfect for Parties, Game Days, and Snacks
Let’s talk versatility. These jalapeno popper egg rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just craving a quick snack, they’re perfect. I’ve served them at everything from casual barbecues to holiday get-togethers, and they’re always a hit.
What I love most is how easy they are to customize. Want more spice? Leave the jalapeno seeds in. Prefer something milder? Swap out the jalapenos for poblano peppers. You can even add bacon for an extra layer of flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try different dipping sauces. Ranch is a classic, but chipotle mayo? Chef’s kiss.
Crispy Texture That Rivals Traditional Frying
This is the big one. We’ve all been let down by so-called “healthier” alternatives that promise crispiness but don’t deliver. Trust me, this isn’t one of those situations. Air-fried egg rolls are legitimately crispy. You’ll get that satisfying crunch with every bite—just like you would with deep frying, but without the oil bath.
The trick is to lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray before air frying. I’ve found that flipping them halfway through the cooking process ensures an even crispiness all around. The result? Perfectly golden, crunchy egg rolls with a creamy, spicy filling that tastes just like your favorite jalapeno poppers.
Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
When it comes to making jalapeno popper egg rolls, the ingredients really do all the heavy lifting. I’ve experimented with a few variations over the years, but these staples are the ones that deliver every time. The balance of spicy, creamy, cheesy, and crispy is what makes these egg rolls irresistible. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient is essential.
Jalapenos: Fresh, Spicy, and Flavorful
First things first—the jalapenos. They’re the star of the show, so you want to make sure you’re picking good ones. Look for firm, glossy peppers with a deep green color. If you’re someone who loves heat, keep the seeds and membranes in. But if you’re like me and need to tone it down a bit for family or friends, scrape them out.
Pro tip: Wear gloves when handling jalapenos. I learned the hard way after cutting a bunch and then rubbing my eyes. Not fun.
Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, try using red jalapenos or even serrano peppers for a twist.
Cream Cheese: The Creamy Base for the Filling
Cream cheese is the glue that holds everything together. It’s what gives these egg rolls that rich, creamy filling that contrasts so well with the crunch of the wrapper. I usually let the cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes to soften. It’s much easier to mix that way, and no one wants to wrestle with a rock-hard block of cream cheese.
For a little extra flavor, you can try using flavored cream cheese—garlic herb or jalapeno-flavored cream cheese works really well.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a Sharp, Cheesy Kick
Cheddar cheese brings that bold, cheesy flavor to the filling. I like to use sharp cheddar because it stands out more against the other ingredients. Pre-shredded cheddar works in a pinch, but if you have the time, shredding your own is always better. It melts smoother, and you won’t have any of that weird anti-caking powder in your filling.
Want to get fancy? Try mixing in a bit of pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: For an Extra Flavor Boost
These two ingredients might seem small, but they pack a punch. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth to the filling, making sure it’s not just cheese and spice. Without them, the filling can taste a bit flat.
I once skipped these seasonings because I thought, Eh, it won’t matter. It did. Big time. Don’t make the same mistake.
Bacon (Optional): For Added Crunch and Flavor
If you’re a bacon lover, adding crispy, crumbled bacon to the filling is a no-brainer. It adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the jalapenos and cheese perfectly. I usually cook the bacon until it’s extra crispy, then crumble it up and mix it right into the filling.
That said, if you’re making these for a vegetarian crowd, you can absolutely skip the bacon. They’re still delicious without it. You could even swap in some diced, roasted mushrooms for a different kind of umami flavor.
Egg Roll Wrappers: Store-Bought for Convenience
Unless you’re a culinary wizard who loves making things from scratch, store-bought egg roll wrappers are your best friend. They’re easy to work with and available at most grocery stores. Look for them in the refrigerated section, usually near the tofu.
When wrapping the egg rolls, make sure you don’t overfill them. Trust me, I’ve learned this lesson the hard way. Overstuffed egg rolls tend to tear, and then the filling leaks out while they’re cooking. Keep it simple—about two tablespoons of filling per roll is perfect.
Cooking Spray: To Achieve That Crispy, Golden Finish
Cooking spray might not seem like a big deal, but it’s key to getting that perfectly crispy finish in the air fryer. I use a light, even spray on all sides of the egg rolls before they go into the fryer. This helps them brown up nicely without needing a ton of oil.
If you want to avoid aerosol sprays, you can use a refillable oil mister. Just make sure you use a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or canola oil so you don’t end up with burnt egg rolls.
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer (Step-by-Step Guide)
Making jalapeno popper egg rolls in the air fryer is way easier than you might think. The first time I made them, I was worried about messing up the wrapping or having the filling leak out everywhere. But after a few tries (and learning from a couple of messy mistakes), I’ve got the process down to a science. Follow these steps, and you’ll have crispy, cheesy, spicy egg rolls with minimal effort.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
The filling is where all the magic happens. It’s a creamy, cheesy, spicy blend that hits all the right notes. Here’s how to put it together.
- Dice the Jalapenos
Start by slicing up your jalapenos. If you want to keep things mild, remove the seeds and membranes. If you’re a heat seeker, leave them in. I usually go halfway—remove most of the seeds but leave a few for that extra kick.
Quick tip: Wear gloves when chopping jalapenos. Trust me on this one. I skipped the gloves once, and hours later, I accidentally touched my face. Not fun. - Mix the Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Spices
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. The key here is to make sure your cream cheese is soft enough to mix easily. If it’s too cold, it’ll be lumpy and frustrating to work with.
Use a fork or spoon to mash everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be thick and spreadable. - Add Cooked Bacon (Optional)
If you’re adding bacon, make sure it’s cooked nice and crispy before crumbling it into the filling. I’ve tried it with both bacon and without, and honestly, both versions are amazing. The bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that takes it to the next level, but if you skip it, you’re still getting that classic jalapeno popper flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Now comes the fun part—assembling the egg rolls. This part might feel tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be wrapping like a pro.
- Place the Filling on the Egg Roll Wrapper
Lay your egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you (so it looks like a diamond shape). Spoon about two tablespoons of the filling mixture into the center of the wrapper. Don’t overfill—it’s tempting, but too much filling will cause the egg roll to burst open while cooking. - Roll Tightly and Seal with Water or Egg Wash
To wrap the egg roll, fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Roll it up tightly toward the top corner, just like you would with a burrito.
Use a bit of water or egg wash to seal the top corner and keep the roll from opening up in the air fryer. Make sure the edges are sealed well to prevent any filling from oozing out during cooking.
Step 3: Air Fry the Egg Rolls
Once your egg rolls are assembled, it’s time to let the air fryer work its magic.
- Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C)
Preheating your air fryer is key to getting that crispy, golden texture. It only takes a few minutes, but skipping this step can result in soggy egg rolls—and nobody wants that. - Spray the Egg Rolls with Cooking Spray
Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray on all sides. This helps them crisp up nicely without the need for a ton of oil. If you don’t have cooking spray, you can brush them with a bit of oil using a pastry brush. - Air Fry for 8-10 Minutes, Flipping Halfway
Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Overcrowding can prevent them from getting crispy.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The flipping part is important—if you skip it, one side will be crispy while the other stays soft. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the cooking time to make sure they don’t overbrown.
Tips for the Perfect Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
When it comes to making jalapeno popper egg rolls, a few small adjustments can make the difference between good and absolutely amazing. I’ve made my fair share of egg rolls, and after a few messy mishaps (like exploding rolls and filling that went everywhere except my mouth), I’ve picked up some tried-and-true tips. Follow these, and you’ll be dishing out perfectly crispy, spicy egg rolls that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Use Gloves When Handling Jalapenos to Avoid Irritation
This is one of those tips that sounds optional… until it’s not. The first time I chopped jalapenos without gloves, I thought, How bad could it be? Well, an hour later, my hands were on fire. And when I accidentally rubbed my eyes? Let’s just say, lesson learned.
Jalapenos contain capsaicin, the compound that makes them spicy, and it sticks to your skin. Gloves will save you from all that discomfort. If you don’t have gloves on hand, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after handling the peppers, and avoid touching your face. Trust me, it’s not a mistake you want to repeat.
Don’t Overfill the Egg Rolls to Prevent Leakage
This tip is huge. When I first started making egg rolls, I thought, More filling = better flavor. Wrong. Overfilling causes two big problems: the wrapper tears while you’re rolling, and the filling leaks out during cooking. The result? Messy egg rolls that are crispy on the outside but empty on the inside.
The sweet spot for filling is about two tablespoons per egg roll. It might not seem like a lot, but it’s enough to pack in the flavor without risking a blowout. Roll them tightly, but don’t pull too hard on the wrapper or it could tear.
Brush with Egg Wash for a More Golden Finish
If you want your egg rolls to look as good as they taste, an egg wash is the way to go. I’ve tried skipping this step before, thinking the air fryer would naturally brown them. They turned out crispy, but a little pale and sad-looking.
Brushing the egg rolls with egg wash (or even a bit of oil) gives them that gorgeous golden-brown finish that makes them look straight out of a restaurant. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use cooking spray instead, but an egg wash really makes a difference in presentation.
Adjust the Spice Level by Removing or Keeping the Seeds
Jalapenos are tricky. Sometimes they’re mild, and sometimes they’re spicy enough to make you sweat. The easiest way to control the heat level is by adjusting how many seeds and membranes you leave in. That’s where most of the heat comes from.
If you’re serving these to a spice-loving crowd, keep some seeds in the filling for an extra kick. But if you’re making them for kids or anyone who prefers a milder flavor, scrape out the seeds and membranes before dicing the jalapenos. You can even mix things up by using different types of peppers—poblanos for a milder kick or serranos for a spicier twist.
Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about making jalapeno popper egg rolls is how easy it is to customize them to fit your taste. Whether you like your snacks extra spicy, packed with protein, or veggie-forward, these egg rolls can be tweaked to suit any crowd. The base recipe is already delicious, but if you want to take things up a notch, here are a few variations and add-ins that’ll make your egg rolls stand out.
Spicy Lover’s Version: Add Chopped Pickled Jalapenos for Extra Heat
If you’re the type of person who orders “extra hot” at restaurants, this variation is for you. Adding fresh jalapenos already gives a nice kick, but tossing in some chopped pickled jalapenos takes it to another level. The pickling adds a tangy punch that cuts through the richness of the cheese, making the flavor more complex and addictive.
I’ve tried this variation with both mild pickled jalapenos and the super-hot kind, and let me tell you—the spicy version was a hit with my heat-loving friends. Just be careful not to go overboard, unless you’re okay with wiping your brow between bites.
For an even bigger kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the filling. Your taste buds will thank you (after they cool down, of course).
Meaty Twist: Use Shredded Chicken or Sausage in the Filling
Want to turn your egg rolls into something heartier? Add some meat to the mix! Shredded chicken or cooked sausage works really well with the creamy, cheesy filling. I’ve found that using a bit of smoked sausage adds a nice depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the jalapenos.
Shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy option if you’re pressed for time. Just toss it in with the cheese and spices, and you’ve got a filling that’s both satisfying and packed with protein. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding pulled pork or even some spicy chorizo for a unique twist.
This version is perfect if you’re serving the egg rolls as a main dish or for a more filling snack during game days.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the Bacon and Add More Cheese or Veggies
If you’re cooking for a vegetarian crowd, don’t worry—these egg rolls are just as delicious without the bacon. In fact, sometimes I make a vegetarian batch for myself because the cheese and jalapenos are already so flavorful on their own.
To boost the veggie content, you can add diced bell peppers, green onions, or even some sautéed mushrooms to the filling. Bell peppers add sweetness and a bit of crunch, while mushrooms give the filling a meaty texture without any actual meat.
Another great option? Add some shredded zucchini or spinach for a healthier twist. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a soggy filling.
Dipping Sauce Ideas: Ranch, Sour Cream, or Chipotle Mayo
The right dipping sauce can take these egg rolls from good to next-level amazing. I’ve experimented with a bunch of different sauces, and here are my top picks:
- Classic Ranch: You can never go wrong with ranch. It cools down the heat from the jalapenos and pairs perfectly with the cheesy filling.
- Sour Cream: Sometimes, simplicity is best. A dollop of sour cream on the side is all you need to balance out the richness of the egg rolls.
- Chipotle Mayo: If you want a smoky, spicy kick, chipotle mayo is the way to go. It’s creamy, a little tangy, and adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to beat.
Other fun options include sweet chili sauce, guacamole, or even a homemade cheese dip. I once served these with a mango-habanero dipping sauce, and it was a surprising hit. The sweetness of the mango balanced out the heat beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making jalapeno popper egg rolls in the air fryer is pretty straightforward, but there are a few easy-to-make mistakes that can mess up your final result. Trust me, I’ve made some of these errors myself, and nothing’s more disappointing than watching your carefully prepared egg rolls fall apart or come out less-than-crispy. The good news? These mistakes are totally avoidable. Let’s break down what to watch out for so you get perfect egg rolls every time.
Overfilling the Egg Rolls, Leading to Leaks
I know it’s tempting to load up the egg rolls with as much cheesy, jalapeno-packed filling as possible. After all, the filling is the best part, right? But overfilling is one of the most common mistakes, and it almost always leads to disaster. Too much filling causes the egg roll wrapper to stretch and tear, which means the filling will leak out while cooking.
I’ve learned this the hard way. The first time I made these, I stuffed them like burritos, and about halfway through cooking, I could see cheese oozing out into the air fryer basket. Not only did I lose a lot of the filling, but it also made a mess I wasn’t too thrilled to clean up.
Stick to about two tablespoons of filling per egg roll. It might not seem like a lot, but trust me, it’s just the right amount to keep everything sealed inside and avoid a gooey mess.
Not Preheating the Air Fryer for Even Cooking
This one’s easy to overlook, especially if you’re in a rush. I used to skip preheating because I thought, It’s an air fryer—it heats up fast enough. Wrong.
Preheating your air fryer is crucial for getting that perfect, even crispiness on your egg rolls. If you don’t preheat, the egg rolls might start cooking unevenly, leaving you with one side that’s golden and crispy and another side that’s soft and undercooked.
Most air fryers only take about 3-5 minutes to preheat, so it’s worth the extra step. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) before you start cooking, and your egg rolls will thank you.
Using Too Little Cooking Spray, Resulting in Dry Egg Rolls
I made this mistake the first time I tried air fryer egg rolls. I figured, It’s an air fryer—I don’t need any oil. Technically, you don’t need much oil, but using too little cooking spray can leave your egg rolls dry and pale instead of golden and crispy.
A light, even coating of cooking spray on all sides of the egg roll is key to getting that perfect crunch. If you’re not a fan of aerosol sprays, use a refillable oil mister instead. Just be sure to use an oil with a high smoke point, like avocado or canola oil, to avoid any burning.
And don’t overdo it, either—too much oil will make the egg rolls greasy. A quick spritz on each side is all you need.
Forgetting to Flip Halfway for Even Crispiness
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made the mistake of forgetting to flip the egg rolls halfway through cooking. The result? One side that’s beautifully golden and crispy, and another side that looks sad and pale.
Flipping your egg rolls halfway through ensures they cook evenly on all sides. It’s a quick step that makes a big difference in the final texture.
Set a timer for the halfway mark to remind yourself. When you flip them, give the egg rolls another quick spritz of cooking spray to help them crisp up even more. It’s a small step, but it really makes your egg rolls look and taste like they came from a restaurant.
How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
There’s something about jalapeno popper egg rolls that makes them disappear as soon as they hit the table. Whether you’re serving them as a quick snack or a party appetizer, these crispy, cheesy rolls are always a crowd-pleaser. But if you really want to impress your guests (or just treat yourself), it’s all about how you serve them. A little extra thought can turn these simple rolls into the highlight of your gathering. Let’s dive into some tips on how to make your egg rolls even more fun and memorable to serve.
Perfect as an Appetizer or Snack
These egg rolls are the ultimate finger food. They’re easy to pick up, dunk in a dipping sauce, and devour in just a few bites. I’ve made them for casual get-togethers, and they’re always the first thing to go. People love the familiar jalapeno popper flavors, but wrapped up in a crispy egg roll shell, they feel like something new and exciting.
What I love most about serving these as a snack is how versatile they are. They work just as well for a laid-back movie night as they do for a holiday party spread. And honestly? They make a pretty great late-night snack when you’re craving something a little indulgent.
Pro tip: If you’re serving them at a party, keep them warm by placing them in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F/90°C) until you’re ready to serve. No one likes a cold egg roll!
Great for Game Days, Parties, and Family Gatherings
Jalapeno popper egg rolls are a total game-day favorite in my house. I make a big batch at the start of the game, and they’re usually gone before halftime. They’re hearty enough to keep people satisfied, but they won’t leave your guests too full to enjoy the rest of your spread.
The beauty of these egg rolls is that they’re a crowd-pleaser across the board. Kids love them because they’re crunchy and cheesy. Adults love them because they pair perfectly with a cold beer or cocktail. And if you make a spicy batch, they’ve got just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
For family gatherings or holiday parties, you can dress them up a bit by serving them on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces (more on that in a second). Trust me—if you bring these to a potluck, you’ll be the star of the show.
Serve with a Variety of Dipping Sauces for a Fun Twist
Let’s be real: the right dipping sauce can take these egg rolls from good to incredible. Sure, you can serve them on their own, but having a variety of dipping sauces on the side makes things a lot more fun. Plus, it gives your guests options to customize their flavor experience.
Here are some of my favorite dipping sauces to serve alongside jalapeno popper egg rolls:
- Ranch Dressing: A classic choice. The creamy, tangy flavor balances out the spice of the jalapenos perfectly.
- Sour Cream: If you want something simple and cooling, sour cream is the way to go. You can even mix in a little lime juice and chopped cilantro to jazz it up.
- Chipotle Mayo: My personal favorite. The smoky, spicy kick of chipotle pairs beautifully with the cheesy filling.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: For a sweet-and-spicy combo, sweet chili sauce is a great option. It’s especially good if you’re serving a milder version of the egg rolls.
- Guacamole: For a fresh, creamy twist, guacamole works surprisingly well as a dip. The avocado cools things down and adds a nice contrast to the crunchy wrapper.
- Buffalo Sauce: If you’re a fan of heat, buffalo sauce is another great choice. Mix it with a little ranch or sour cream to tone it down if needed.
I like to serve the sauces in small bowls around the egg rolls, so people can mix and match. It’s a small detail, but it makes the whole experience more interactive and fun.
How to Store and Reheat Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
If you’ve made a big batch of jalapeno popper egg rolls (because let’s be real, it’s hard to stop at just a few), you’re probably wondering how to store the leftovers—if there are any, that is. Luckily, these egg rolls are just as delicious the next day, and with the right reheating method, you can bring back that crispy, golden perfection without any sogginess. Plus, if you want to get ahead on party prep, you can freeze them and cook them fresh later. Here’s everything you need to know about storing, reheating, and freezing your egg rolls.
Storing: Keep in an Airtight Container in the Fridge for Up to 3 Days
Leftover egg rolls? Pop them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure they’ve cooled down to room temperature before storing them—if you put them in the container while they’re still warm, they’ll trap moisture and turn soggy. Nobody wants a sad, limp egg roll.
I like to layer mine with parchment paper or paper towels in between to keep them from sticking together. That way, when you’re ready to reheat, you can grab one (or a few) without any trouble.
But here’s a tip: these egg rolls are best reheated in the air fryer. Don’t even think about microwaving them unless you’re okay with chewy, soggy rolls. Trust me on this one.
Reheating: Air Fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 Minutes to Regain Crispiness
When it comes to reheating jalapeno popper egg rolls, the air fryer is your best friend. It’s quick, easy, and keeps them crispy—almost like they’re fresh out of the fryer.
To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket (no overlapping), and air fry for about 3-5 minutes. Flip them halfway through to make sure they crisp up evenly on both sides.
I’ve found that the timing can vary slightly depending on your air fryer, so keep an eye on them. You want them hot and crispy, but not overcooked. And don’t forget to let them cool for a minute before biting in—they’ll be lava hot inside!
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also reheat them in the oven. Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes. It’s not as fast as the air fryer, but it’ll get the job done.
Freezing: Freeze Uncooked Egg Rolls and Air Fry Directly from Frozen
One of the best things about these egg rolls is that you can make them ahead of time and freeze them for later. It’s a total game-changer if you want to have a stash of ready-to-cook snacks for parties, unexpected guests, or even late-night cravings.
Here’s how to freeze them:
- Assemble the egg rolls as usual, but don’t cook them.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not touching.
- Pop the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours until the egg rolls are completely frozen.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
When you’re ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw! Just place the frozen egg rolls directly in the air fryer, spray them with a bit of cooking spray, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out perfectly crispy and golden.
Pro tip: If you’re freezing a lot of egg rolls, label your freezer bag with the date and cooking instructions. It’s a small step that’ll save you time later when you’re in snack mode.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Let’s be real—jalapeno popper egg rolls aren’t exactly health food, but they’re definitely worth the indulgence! Whether you’re keeping an eye on your calorie intake or just curious about the nutritional breakdown, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting in each delicious roll. The numbers below are based on a typical serving with the classic filling of jalapenos, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and an egg roll wrapper. Of course, your numbers might vary depending on the size of your egg rolls, the ingredients you use, and whether you add extras like bacon or sausage.
Calories: ~200
One egg roll typically clocks in at around 200 calories. That’s not too bad for a crispy, cheesy, spicy snack that feels like a guilty pleasure. If you make them in the air fryer, you’re already cutting down on calories compared to deep-frying, which makes them a great option if you’re looking for something a bit lighter.
Want to reduce the calorie count further? You can use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar. Or, if you’re making smaller egg rolls, the calorie count per serving will drop.
Fat: 12g
Most of the fat in these egg rolls comes from the cheese and cream cheese filling. While it’s not the lowest-fat snack, it’s not over-the-top indulgent either—especially if you compare it to deep-fried appetizers at restaurants, which are loaded with oil.
To cut back on fat, you can swap full-fat cream cheese for a lighter version. Or, for a keto-friendly option, you can use low-carb, high-fat wrappers and embrace the full-fat filling.
Protein: 7g
Surprisingly, these egg rolls pack a decent amount of protein, thanks to the cheese and any added meats like bacon or sausage. If you want to boost the protein content, try adding shredded chicken or turkey to the filling.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a more filling snack or even a meal, making these with a meaty add-in will give you a more balanced protein hit without drastically increasing the calorie count.
Carbs: 15g
The main source of carbs comes from the egg roll wrapper. If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, there are lower-carb wrappers available on the market. Or, you can skip the wrapper altogether and make jalapeno popper bites using the same filling.
If you’re sticking to traditional egg roll wrappers, just keep in mind that they add most of the carbs. But hey, it’s worth it for that perfect crunch, right?
Note: Adjust Based on Filling and Wrapper Type
The nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on what you use in your recipe. If you add bacon, sausage, or other extras, you’ll be increasing the calories, fat, and protein. On the other hand, using lower-fat cheeses and lighter wrappers can bring those numbers down.
For those tracking macros or calories closely, it’s always a good idea to plug your exact ingredients into a nutrition calculator. That way, you can adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying a crispy, cheesy treat.
These jalapeno popper egg rolls in the air fryer are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and crispy textures without the guilt. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a snack, this recipe delivers every time. So fire up your air fryer and treat yourself to these irresistible, cheesy, spicy egg rolls today!