Save Mac and Cheese Egg Rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for parties or casual dinners when you want both comfort and fun on one plate. Imagine rich and gooey mac and cheese tucked into a crisp shell—these little bites always steal the show at my family game nights and potlucks.
My kids beg for these after every sleepover and they even get adults hovering around the snack table until the last one disappears. The golden shell crackles when you bite in and they are always a hit.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: Pick smaller tubes for the right filling-to-crunch ratio and avoid overcooking to maintain bite
- Unsalted butter: The foundation of the cheese sauce adds rich flavor
- All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening your cheese sauce so it is not runny
- Whole milk: Choose full fat for the creamiest texture
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Go for a high-quality block and grate it yourself for best melt and sharpness
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings mild stretchiness and balances cheddar’s tang
- Garlic powder: Adds depth without overwhelming the cheese flavor
- Onion powder: A classic background note that gives more dimension
- Salt and black pepper: Basics for seasoning and making flavors pop
- Egg roll wrappers: Check your store’s refrigeration section and get wrappers that are pliable without cracks
- Egg for sealing: It glues everything shut so each roll holds together when fried
- Vegetable oil for frying: Neutral flavored with a high smoke point for crispiness
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil elbow macaroni just to al dente usually about eight minutes then drain well and let cool slightly so it does not keep cooking in the sauce
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat then stir in flour and cook for one minute It should smell warm and nutty but not brown
- Build the Creamy Base:
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking steadily to avoid lumps Let it simmer with constant stirring for three to four minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon
- Melt the Cheese:
- Add both shredded cheddar and mozzarella straight into the hot milk base Stir until completely smooth Watch for any unmelted clumps and keep the heat low to avoid curdling
- Season the Mixture:
- Sprinkle in garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper Stir to distribute everything evenly
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
- Turn off the heat and add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce Fold it all together gently until each noodle is coated and the mixture has cooled enough to handle
- Fill the Wrappers:
- Lay out one egg roll wrapper with a corner facing you Spoon about two tablespoons of the mac and cheese along the lower third Keep the filling compact to avoid messy bursting
- Roll and Seal:
- Fold up the bottom point over the filling then tuck in the sides Roll up gently but firmly Brush the final tip with beaten egg and press to seal
- Prepare to Fry:
- Pour enough oil into a deep heavy pot for egg rolls to float Heat oil to around one hundred eighty degrees Celsius or three hundred fifty Fahrenheit
- Fry Until Golden:
- Work in batches and fry rolls two to three minutes each turning for even browning Remove once they are deep gold and crisp Drain on paper towels so they keep their crunch
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Dish up while hot Perfect with dipping sauces like ranch spicy ketchup or sriracha mayo
Save During cozy winter gatherings we serve them on a big tray with hot cocoa or mulled cider on the side
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely and pack in an airtight container in the fridge They stay good for up to three days For best results crisp them in a hot oven or air fryer before serving again Never microwave or they will be soggy Egg rolls freeze beautifully Just line up on a tray freeze solid then collect in a zipper bag for up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack for a new flavor profile Non dairy milk and vegan cheeses can be used for dietary restrictions but pick ones that melt well Wonton wrappers work if you cannot find full egg roll wrappers just use less filling per roll
Serving Suggestions
Pair with tangy barbecue sauce or honey mustard for a southern twist Pile high on a platter mixed with mozzarella sticks jalapeno poppers or buffalo cauliflower for a party spread
Cultural and Historical Context
Egg rolls have roots in Chinese American takeout while mac and cheese is a soul food classic This recipe mashes up two comfort foods into a fusion appetizer that bridges cultures and age groups Fun fact These rolls also appear at food fairs and trendy food trucks all across the United States
Seasonal Adaptations
Mix in finely chopped jalapenos or bell peppers for summer brightness Add roasted squash or pumpkin to the cheese filling for a fall spin Sprinkle with smoked paprika or chili flakes for a warming winter touch
Try smaller wrappers for bite-sized party snacks Dust with parmesan just out of the fryer for extra flavor Use gluten free wrappers if entertaining celiac guests
Success Stories
My friend brings these egg rolls to every Fourth of July picnic and says there are never leftovers Kids love helping roll up the wrappers and choosing their sauces They have become a standing request for my family’s game nights and birthday celebrations
Freezer Meal Conversion
Roll all the filled egg rolls and spread on a parchment tray in your freezer Once solid pop them in a container and fry straight from frozen at the next party Add another minute to the frying time to make sure they warm through
Save Dust with parmesan just out of the fryer for extra flavor.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep egg rolls crispy after frying?
Drain on paper towels and serve immediately to maintain crunch. Avoid covering tightly, as steam can soften the rolls.
- → Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying?
Yes! Brush rolls with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 15–18 minutes, turning once for even browning.
- → What sauces pair well with these egg rolls?
Try ranch, spicy ketchup, sriracha mayo, or your favorite dipping sauce to complement the cheesy filling.
- → Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely—mix in cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, or even sautéed vegetables for added flavor and texture.
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Seal the edges well with beaten egg and avoid overfilling the wrappers for best results.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese and wrappers, the ingredient list is meat-free.