Bring the spirit of Southwest cooking right into your kitchen with these irresistible Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls. Each crispy bite delivers a delicious medley of juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant veggies, all wrapped up in a golden, crunchy shell. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or a weeknight treat, these egg rolls pack bold flavor and playful texture that will light up your table and have everyone reaching for seconds. Get ready to wow your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls comes from a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Each component plays a starring role, adding a pop of flavor, color, or irresistible crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to bring these tasty egg rolls to life:
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing the veggies and meat, bringing out their best flavors.
- Cooked chicken, shredded (or ground beef): The hearty protein that makes these roll-ups satisfying and filling; perfect for using up leftovers too.
- Canned black beans, drained and rinsed: These add creaminess, color, and a boost of fiber.
- Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen): For a touch of sweetness and that irresistible pop with every bite.
- Diced red bell pepper: Brings vibrant color and fresh, slightly sweet crunch.
- Red onion, finely chopped: Adds a savory kick and gorgeous color.
- Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, infusing the filling with creamy flavor and a little (or a lot!) of spice if you choose pepper jack.
- Chili powder: The classic Tex-Mex spice, giving warmth and depth.
- Cumin: Toasty and earthy, this spice sets the Tex-Mex mood.
- Garlic powder: Simple, savory, and aromatic.
- Salt and black pepper: The essential seasonings that tie it all together.
- Egg roll wrappers: The crispy, golden canvas for all that goodness.
- Oil for frying or brushing if baking: Gives you the option for crispiness, whether you’re frying or making a lighter baked version.
How to Make Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Start by warming olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and diced red bell pepper, stirring often. Let these cook for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they’ve softened and their natural sweetness begins to shine. This step is all about building a flavorful base for the Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls, enhancing both taste and texture right from the start.
Step 2: Add Chicken, Beans, Corn, and Spices
Next, toss in your cooked, shredded chicken (or ground beef if you’re going that route), black beans, corn kernels, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until fragrant and everything is nicely combined and warmed through. By now, the kitchen will smell incredible and you’ll start to see all the colorful Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls filling come together.
Step 3: Mix in the Cheese
Once the filling is hot and well-mixed, take your skillet off the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Stir in your shredded cheese, which will melt just enough to hold everything together while still keeping those delightful cheesy strands throughout the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, making sure one corner points towards you (like a diamond). Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling into the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up and over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly upwards. Moisten the final corner with a touch of water to seal. Repeat until you’ve used all the filling for your perfect little Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls.
Step 5: Cooking – Fry or Bake!
If you’re frying, heat a couple of inches of oil to 350°F in a deep skillet. Fry the egg rolls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning until golden brown and crisp. Set them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. For a lighter bite, you can bake: preheat the oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment, arrange the egg rolls, brush with oil, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through for extra crunch!
How to Serve Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls
Garnishes
Take your Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls to the next level by finishing them with fresh garnishes. Chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or even a little crumbled queso fresco add a pop of color and extra layers of flavor. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime for a tangy brightness right before serving!
Side Dishes
These rolls are perfect on their own, but they also shine alongside classic Tex-Mex sides. Serve them with crisp romaine salad, a chunky salsa, creamy guacamole, or a dollop of chipotle ranch. They pair beautifully with Mexican rice or a tangy corn and black bean salad to round out the spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the box for your next gathering! Stack Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls on a platter with little dipping bowls nestled in between, or slice each roll in half on the diagonal for bite-sized party nibbles. Individually wrap them in parchment for a grab-and-go treat at picnics or lunchboxes. They’re as fun to serve as they are to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, staying fresh and ready for a speedy reheat whenever the craving strikes!
Freezing
The amazing part? These egg rolls freeze beautifully! Assemble them up to the point before cooking, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. Just thaw them slightly before baking or frying for that same irresistible crunch.
Reheating
To reheat, just pop the egg rolls onto a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes (longer if frozen). This helps restore the crispy shell while gently warming the filling. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven really brings back that signature crunch.
FAQs
Are these Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls spicy?
They have a gentle kick from chili powder, but nothing overpowering. If you love more heat, add jalapeños to the filling or serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side!
Can I use beef instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground beef makes a delicious, heartier version of Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls. Just cook and drain before adding to the veggie mixture.
What dipping sauces pair best with these?
Classic salsa is always a hit, but try chipotle ranch, guacamole, or even a creamy cilantro lime sauce for extra excitement. Mix and match to find your favorite!
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Definitely! Assemble your egg rolls ahead and refrigerate or freeze them. Cook right before serving so everyone enjoys them at peak crispiness.
Are Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls kid-friendly?
Yes! The cheesy filling and crispy wrapper are a hit with kids, and you can skip the spicy ingredients for the littlest eaters.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up a batch of Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls is like throwing a flavor party in your kitchen. They’re fun to make, exciting to serve, and always a hit with friends and family. Give them a try, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite appetizer!
Print
Tex-Mex Inspired Egg Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 egg rolls 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Tex-Mex inspired egg rolls are a delicious twist on a classic appetizer, filled with a savory mixture of chicken (or beef), black beans, corn, and cheese, wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper. Perfect for parties or a fun snack!
Ingredients
Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (or ground beef)
- ½ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Wrapping:
- 10 egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying or brushing if baking
Instructions
- Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add red onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in chicken (or beef), black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then mix in shredded cheese.
- Assembly: Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling into the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly, sealing the edge with a bit of water.
- For frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F and fry egg rolls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway, until crisp and golden.
- Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or chipotle ranch for dipping.
Notes
- These freeze well before cooking—just thaw slightly before baking or frying.
- Customize with jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 egg roll
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
