Taco Egg Rolls

Introduction

Taco Egg Rolls are a fun and delicious fusion dish that combines the crispy texture of egg rolls with the bold, savory flavors of a taco. Filled with seasoned ground beef or turkey, cheese, and traditional taco fillings, these egg rolls are deep-fried to perfection for a satisfying crunch.

I first made these when I wanted to try something different for taco night, and they quickly became a family favorite. The kitchen smelled incredible as the egg rolls fried, and the first bite was a perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful. These egg rolls are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, party snack, or a quick dinner. The crispy, flavorful exterior and savory filling will have everyone reaching for more.

What’s great about Taco Egg Rolls is how easy and customizable they are. You can fill them with whatever taco ingredients you prefer, from ground meat to beans, veggies, or even guacamole. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Game day snacks
• Party appetizers
• Taco Tuesday twist
• Quick weeknight dinners
• Finger foods for gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Taco Egg Rolls

Here’s why Taco Egg Rolls will become your new favorite:

• Crispy and Crunchy: The egg roll wrappers fry up perfectly crisp, giving a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Flavorful Filling: Ground beef (or turkey), taco seasoning, and cheese create a savory filling that tastes just like your favorite taco.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the filling to suit your taste, adding beans, peppers, or extra spices.
• Quick and Easy: These egg rolls are quick to prepare and cook, making them a perfect weeknight meal or party snack.
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy texture and familiar taco flavors make them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 12 egg rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Taco Egg Rolls:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
• 12 egg roll wrappers
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons salsa
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• A pinch of chili powder (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef (or Turkey): The meat provides a savory base for the taco egg rolls. Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative to beef.
• Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning adds a quick and easy way to get that signature taco flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheese enhances the flavor and texture of the egg rolls, making them creamy and rich inside.
• Egg Roll Wrappers: These wrappers fry up crispy, providing the perfect crunchy shell for the taco filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Taco Egg Rolls:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Season the Meat: Drain any excess grease and add the taco seasoning along with a splash of water (as directed on the seasoning packet). Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the seasoning is fully incorporated. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add Cheese and Vegetables: Once the meat mixture has cooled a bit, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and green onions (if using). Mix until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.

Assemble the Egg Rolls:

4. Prepare the Egg Roll Wrappers: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape). Place about 2 tablespoons of the taco mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Roll the Egg Rolls: Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll the egg roll up tightly, sealing the edge with a little bit of water. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and taco filling.

Fry the Egg Rolls:

6. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat 1-2 inches of olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking—test it by dropping a small piece of wrapper into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
7. Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully add the egg rolls to the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them so they cook evenly.
8. Drain and Cool: Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Make the Dipping Sauce:

9. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, salsa, lime juice, and chili powder (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serve:

10. Serve: Arrange the taco egg rolls on a serving platter and serve with the dipping sauce on the side.

How to Serve Taco Egg Rolls

Taco Egg Rolls are great for various occasions and pair well with many sides:

• As an Appetizer: Serve as a finger food for parties, game days, or gatherings.
• With a Salad: Pair with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the egg rolls.
• As a Meal: Serve with rice or beans to make these taco egg rolls a full meal.
• With Extra Toppings: Garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and jalapeños for added flavor.
• With Guacamole or Salsa: Serve with your favorite salsa or homemade guacamole for extra dipping options.

Additional Tips for Taco Egg Rolls

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe are perfect every time:

• Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the egg roll wrappers. A little goes a long way, and overstuffed egg rolls can burst open during frying.
• Seal Well: Ensure the egg rolls are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out while frying.
• Cook in Batches: Fry the egg rolls in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the oil temperature to drop and result in soggy egg rolls.
• Use a Thermometer: If you have a kitchen thermometer, make sure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) for crispy egg rolls.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the egg rolls in advance and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to fry. If freezing, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag.

Recipe Variations for Taco Egg Rolls

Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:

• Chicken Taco Egg Rolls: Use seasoned shredded chicken instead of ground beef or turkey for a lighter version.
• Veggie Taco Egg Rolls: Fill the egg rolls with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn for a vegetarian option.
• Buffalo Chicken Taco Egg Rolls: Add buffalo sauce to the chicken filling for a spicy, tangy twist.
• BBQ Pork Taco Egg Rolls: Use pulled pork mixed with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Cheesy Taco Egg Rolls: Add more cheese or mix in different types like pepper jack or mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Spicy Taco Egg Rolls: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Breakfast Taco Egg Rolls: Fill with scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and cheese for a breakfast-inspired version.
• Fish Taco Egg Rolls: Use white fish like tilapia or cod, seasoned with taco spices, for a seafood variation.
• Carnitas Taco Egg Rolls: Use slow-cooked carnitas pork as the filling for a rich, flavorful option.
• Sweet Potato Taco Egg Rolls: Add roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and taco seasoning for a hearty, vegetarian option.

Freezing and Storage for Taco Egg Rolls

• Freezing: These egg rolls freeze well. After assembling, place the egg rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness.

Special Equipment for Taco Egg Rolls

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing this recipe easier:

• Skillet or Deep Fryer: A large skillet or deep fryer is essential for frying the egg rolls to crispy perfection.
• Tongs: Tongs help you turn the egg rolls without breaking them while frying.
• Baking Sheet: If freezing the egg rolls, a baking sheet will help keep them from sticking together.
• Paper Towels: Use paper towels to drain excess oil from the fried egg rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions for Taco Egg Rolls

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded beef can be used as alternatives to ground beef.
2. Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying?
   Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.
3. Can I make the filling in advance?
   Yes, you can make the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just assemble and fry the egg rolls when you’re ready.
4. Can I use spring roll wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers?
   Yes, spring roll wrappers can be used, but they may be thinner and not as crispy as egg roll wrappers.
5. Are these egg rolls gluten-free?
   You can make these gluten-free by using gluten-free egg roll wrappers and ensuring the taco seasoning is gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Taco Egg Rolls offer a delicious and unique way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a crispy, bite-sized package. With a savory filling and crunchy exterior, they’re perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or whenever you’re craving something fun and flavorful. Whether you dip them in sour cream and salsa or enjoy them on their own, these egg rolls will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is as easy to prepare as it is tasty, making it ideal for everything from casual family meals to festive get-togethers. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, Taco Egg Rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.

I’d love to see how your Taco Egg Rolls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!