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These crispy golden brown egg rolls are the perfect side dish to complete any meal. They feature a flaky shell that crisps beautifully when fried, enclosing a savory mix of ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh vegetables like green onions and shredded carrots. The addition of Cajun spices and garlic powder gives them a unique Southern flair that makes each bite memorable. Whether for a party, a quick snack, or a simple dinner, these egg rolls deliver a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
I first made these during a casual weekend gettogether, and now they are always requested whenever friends come over.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: one pound rich in protein and forms the hearty filling
- Shredded cheddar cheese: one cup adds creamy melty texture and sharp flavor choose a good quality sharp cheddar if you can
- Chopped green onions: half a cup for fresh, mild onion bite and a pop of color
- Shredded carrots: half a cup contributes subtle sweetness and crunch
- Cajun seasoning: one tablespoon boosts bold Southern spice check for a blend with smoked paprika and garlic for best flavor
- Garlic powder: one teaspoon deepens the savory taste
- Egg roll wrappers: ten to twelve soft but sturdy wrappers that crisp nicely when fried look for fresh or high quality frozen
- Vegetable oil for frying: picks a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil
Instructions
- Sauté the Ground Beef:
- Cook ground beef in a medium skillet over medium heat until fully browned with no pink remaining. Drain any excess grease carefully to avoid oily egg rolls.
- Season the Meat:
- Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and garlic powder stirring to coat evenly. Set the meat aside to cool just enough to handle safely.
- Mix the Filling:
- Transfer the seasoned beef into a large bowl. Add shredded cheddar cheese green onions and shredded carrots. Stir everything gently until combined.
- Prepare the Wrappers:
- Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on your work surface positioned like a diamond shape with a corner pointing toward you.
- Add the Filling:
- Spoon about two to three tablespoons of the filling near the center of the wrapper but slightly closer to the bottom corner so wrapping is easier.
- Fold and Roll:
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling. Next fold in the two side corners tightly to encase the filling completely. Roll the wrapper upward to the top corner making a tight cylinder.
- Seal the Edge:
- Use a dab of water along the top corner to seal the wrapper securely to prevent it from opening during frying.
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot to a depth of about two inches. Heat to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five Celsius using a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Place egg rolls carefully into hot oil in small batches so they do not stick together. Fry for about three to four minutes turning occasionally until the wrappers are crispy and golden brown all over.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the fried egg rolls with tongs and place on a paper towellined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
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One of my favorite things about this recipe is the Cajun seasoning it brings a comforting warmth and zest that reminds me of family gatherings in the South where bold flavors always make the party better.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days. To reheat bake in a preheated oven at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for about ten minutes to keep them crispy rather than microwaving which can soften the wrapper.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the calorie count without sacrificing protein. You can use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder cheese flavor. If you do not have Cajun seasoning mix paprika with a pinch of cayenne pepper garlic powder and onion powder for a similar effect.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these egg rolls with creamy ranch spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce. Pair with a simple crisp salad or coleslaw to balance the richness. These also make a great side to a bowl of gumbo or jambalaya for a full Southerninspired meal.
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These egg rolls are crispy and full of flavor, perfect for parties or quick dinners. Make a batch ahead and freeze extras so you can fry them fresh whenever you want.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How do I keep the rolls crispy after frying?
Drain on paper towels immediately and serve hot. Avoid stacking to prevent sogginess and maintain crispness.
- → Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and freeze uncooked for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen for convenience.
- → What oil is best for frying these rolls?
Use vegetable or any neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil for even frying and crisp texture.
- → How to prevent wrappers from bursting while frying?
Avoid overfilling and seal edges carefully with water. Double-wrapping can offer extra protection for crispiness.
- → Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, change cheese types, or adjust vegetables and spices to your taste.