Description

Craving a bold, spicy appetizer that’s perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or a fun Valentine’s Day treat? Slow Cooker Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are your answer! Adapted from the original fried or baked recipe, this slow cooker version wraps a creamy, cheesy filling of cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños in eggroll wrappers, slow-cooked in a light broth to keep them tender yet flavorful, and optionally crisped up for texture.

Ingredients

For the Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls:

Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened):
- Why it’s important: Provides a creamy, tangy base for the filling.
- Substitutions: Neufchâtel cheese for lower fat, or vegan cream cheese for plant-based.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds melty, sharp flavor to the filling.
- Substitutions: Pepper jack for extra spice, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheddar.
Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled):
- Why it’s important: Brings smoky, salty crunch to the filling.
- Substitutions: Turkey bacon, pancetta, or omit for vegetarian (add 1 tsp smoked paprika for smoky flavor).
Fresh Jalapeños (4–5, finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat):
- Why it’s important: Provides spicy, fresh flavor for the popper vibe.
- Substitutions: Pickled jalapeños, green bell peppers for milder flavor, or serrano peppers for more heat.
Eggroll Wrappers (15):
- Why it’s important: Encases the filling, creating a crispy, portable shell.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free eggroll wrappers, wonton wrappers (for smaller bites), or rice paper for a lighter option.
Vegetable Oil (1 tbsp, for slow cooker prep):
- Why it’s important: Prevents sticking in the slow cooker.
- Substitutions: Cooking spray, olive oil, or avocado oil.
Garlic Powder (1 tbsp, optional):
- Why it’s important: Adds savory depth to the filling.
- Substitutions: 2 minced garlic cloves or ½ tsp garlic paste.
Onion Powder (1 tbsp, optional):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the filling with subtle oniony flavor.
- Substitutions: ¼ cup finely diced onion or ½ tsp onion flakes.
Salt (to taste, about ¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the filling.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
Black Pepper (to taste, about ¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth to the filling.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
Water (small bowl, for sealing wrappers):
- Why it’s important: Seals the eggroll wrappers to prevent filling leakage.
- Substitutions: Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water) for a stronger seal.

Additional for Slow Cooker:

Chicken or Vegetable Broth (¼ cup):
- Why it’s important: Keeps the eggrolls moist during slow cooking without making them soggy.
- Substitutions: Water or omit if crisping immediately after cooking.

Optional Dipping Sauces:

Ranch Dressing (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Provides a creamy, cooling contrast to the spicy filling.
- Substitutions: Blue cheese dressing or vegan ranch.
Spicy Mayo (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds a creamy, spicy kick to complement the eggrolls.
- Substitutions: Sriracha mayo or mix mayo with hot sauce.
Salsa (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Brings a fresh, tangy element to the dish.
- Substitutions: Pico de gallo or hot sauce.
Sour Cream (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Offers a tangy, cooling dip for the spicy eggrolls.
- Substitutions: Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream.

Tip: Use fresh jalapeños for the best flavor, and soften cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing. If buying eggroll wrappers, check for freshness to avoid tearing.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 6 slices crumbled bacon, and 4–5 finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat).
If using, add 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Mix well until the filling is smooth and evenly incorporated.
Tip: Use a fork or spatula to blend the filling, and taste to adjust seasoning, adding more jalapeño or salt as needed.

Step 2: Assemble the Eggrolls

Lay one of the 15 eggroll wrappers flat on a clean surface, with a corner pointing toward you (diamond shape).
Place about 2 tbsp of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners tightly. Roll the wrapper toward the top corner, sealing the edge with a dab of water from a small bowl. Press firmly to ensure a tight seal.
Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling, placing assembled eggrolls on a tray and covering with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
Tip: Work in batches to keep wrappers pliable, and ensure eggrolls are tightly rolled to prevent filling leakage during cooking.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with 1 tbsp vegetable oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the assembled eggrolls in a single layer in the slow cooker, seam side down. If needed, stack a second layer gently, ensuring they don’t overlap too much.
Pour ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth around (not over) the eggrolls to maintain moisture without softening them excessively.
Tip: Use a small rack or crumpled foil balls to elevate the eggrolls slightly, keeping them out of the broth to maintain texture.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1.5–2 hours, until the eggrolls are heated through and the filling is melty and warm.
Check doneness early to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary and wrappers can become too soft if overdone.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat, and handle eggrolls gently to prevent tearing.

Step 5: Crisp (Optional) and Serve

For a crispy exterior (mimicking the fried or baked version), transfer the cooked eggrolls to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Serve hot with a selection of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy mayo, salsa, or sour cream.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra crumbled bacon for a vibrant finish.
Pair with a side of coleslaw, potato wedges, or a light salad for a complete appetizer spread.
Tip: Serve on a platter with dipping sauces in small bowls for a party-friendly presentation, and provide napkins for the cheesy filling.