Save This fusion recipe transforms the beloved cheeseburger into crispy, handheld egg rolls that deliver all the classic flavors in a fun, dippable package. I created these for a game day gathering last year, and they've become my most requested party appetizer ever since.
I first made these when looking for something different to serve at my Super Bowl party. The combination of that satisfying crunch with familiar cheeseburger flavors had everyone asking for the recipe before halftime even started.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: The foundation of our egg rolls use 80/20 for best flavor but leaner works too
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds that classic umami burger flavor you recognize instantly
- Dill pickles: Provides the tangy crunch that makes a great burger
- Cheddar cheese: Use sharp for the most pronounced flavor that stands up to frying
- Egg roll wrappers: Found in refrigerated section near tofu look for fresh ones
- Vegetable oil: Choose one with high smoke point like canola or peanut
- Ketchup: The sweet tomato base for our dipping sauce
- Mayonnaise: Creates creaminess in the sauce
- Yellow mustard: Adds classic burger tang to the dipping sauce
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no pink remains about 5 to 7 minutes. Break it into small crumbles using a wooden spoon. The finer texture works better for filling the egg rolls than large chunks.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings:
- Stir in the diced onion and continue cooking until they become translucent about 2 to 3 minutes. Add Worcestershire sauce and chopped pickles mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors. Remove from heat and allow mixture to cool for about 10 minutes. Hot filling will make the wrappers soggy and difficult to work with.
- Incorporate the Cheese:
- Once the beef mixture has cooled slightly gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese creating pockets of gooeyness without making it completely liquid which would leak during frying.
- Wrap the Egg Rolls:
- Position an egg roll wrapper with a corner pointing toward you like a diamond. Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling just below the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling then fold both side corners toward the center creating an envelope. Roll tightly upward and seal the top corner with beaten egg using your finger to apply it like glue.
- Fry to Golden Perfection:
- Heat oil to 350°F in a deep skillet or pot using a thermometer for accuracy. Gently lower egg rolls into hot oil in batches of 3 to 4 avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Create the Special Sauce:
- Whisk together ketchup mayonnaise mustard pickle juice and smoked paprika in a small bowl until completely smooth. The sauce should have a pinkish orange hue and a consistency perfect for dipping.
Save The secret ingredient that makes these truly special is the pickle juice in the dipping sauce. My daughter actually suggested this addition after watching me make burger sauce one day. That tiny splash of brine ties everything together and really makes the sauce taste like it came from your favorite burger joint.
Make Ahead Tips
These egg rolls are perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble them completely then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen transfer to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to serve fry directly from frozen adding about 1 to 2 minutes to the cooking time. The filling can also be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated making assembly much quicker on party day.
Variation Ideas
While the classic cheeseburger filling is delicious this recipe welcomes creative variations. Try a bacon cheeseburger version by adding 4 slices of cooked crumbled bacon to the filling. For a mushroom swiss variation substitute swiss cheese and add 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms. Spice lovers can incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can even create a breakfast burger egg roll by adding scrambled eggs to the filling.
Air Fryer Method
For a lighter version with less mess these egg rolls work beautifully in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking oil. Cook in batches for 8 to 10 minutes turning halfway through until golden and crispy. This method reduces fat content while still achieving an impressively crunchy exterior. The texture is nearly identical to deep frying but with significantly less oil.
Kid Friendly Cooking
This recipe offers great opportunities to get children involved in the kitchen. Kids can help mix the dipping sauce measure ingredients or even assist with the wrapping process for older children. Breaking the recipe into stations where different family members handle different tasks makes preparation fun and efficient. My children particularly enjoy being in charge of the dipping sauce measuring and mixing the ingredients with surprisingly little mess.
Serving Suggestions
Create a burger bar inspired spread by serving these egg rolls alongside small bowls of traditional burger toppings. Include shredded lettuce diced tomatoes extra pickles and various condiments. For a party setting cut each egg roll in half diagonally to create more servings and make them easier to manage as finger food. They pair wonderfully with crispy french fries loaded potato skins or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Save These are best served immediately while still warm and crispy. Enjoy the delightful crunch and classic cheeseburger flavor combination!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you keep egg rolls crispy after frying?
Drain egg rolls on paper towels and serve immediately. For extra crispiness, bake briefly on a wire rack at low heat before serving.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the beef filling in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and frying.
- → What dipping sauces complement cheeseburger egg rolls?
A tangy sauce with ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, and pickle juice adds classic cheeseburger flavors. Try ranch or spicy mayo for variety.
- → Can I use a different type of meat?
Ground turkey or plant-based alternatives work well. Adjust seasoning to match the meat’s flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent egg rolls from bursting during frying?
Don’t overfill wrappers and ensure edges are sealed with beaten egg. Fry in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
- → Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes. Assemble and freeze uncooked egg rolls in a single layer. Fry from frozen, adding extra time as needed.