When I first tried making egg rolls at home, I never anticipated the delicious fusion that would unfold in my kitchen. These Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls With Avocado Sauce are a game-changer, marrying the traditional Mexican flavors of elote with the crispy delight of an egg roll. Picture this: golden-brown wrappers encasing a mouthwatering blend of sweet corn, creamy cheese, and just a hint of jalapeño for that perfect kick.
Whether you whip these up for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a show-stopping appetizer during your next gathering, they’re bound to impress. The air fryer makes them incredibly easy to prepare—no need for deep frying! And to elevate the experience, I’ve paired them with a zesty avocado sauce that adds a refreshing contrast to each bite. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand, as it’s destined to become a staple for celebrations or even a flavorful escape from the usual takeout routine. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why love Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls?
Unique Flavor Fusion: These egg rolls transform the beloved elote into a crispy, handheld delight.
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for parties, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike!
Crazy Easy to Make: With an air fryer option, preparation is quick and hassle-free.
Creamy Dip Delight: Paired with zesty avocado sauce, every bite offers a refreshing contrast.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personal touch.
Experience the best of both worlds with this delightful take on Mexican street food!
Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls Ingredients
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For the Egg Rolls
• Egg Roll Wrappers – The crunchy outer shell that holds all the deliciousness; can substitute with spring roll wrappers for a lighter version.
• Corn (2 ears or 1.5 cans) – Provides natural sweetness and texture; fresh corn is best, but canned corn works well for convenience.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz) – Adds creaminess and binds the filling; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup) – Brings a melty, gooey texture; feel free to swap with cheddar or vegan cheese for variations.
• Jalapeños (2, diced) – Adds a kick of heat and flavor; adjust to suit your spice preference.
• Shallot (1, diced) – Enhances flavor complexity; can be replaced with green onions if you prefer.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
• Tajín Chili Lime Seasoning (1 tsp) – Offers a zesty, spicy profile; optional but highly recommended for authentic flavor. -
For the Avocado Sauce
• Sour Cream (½ cup) – A rich base for the sauce, delivering an excellent creamy texture; Greek yogurt provides a healthier alternative.
• Lime Juice (from 2 limes) – Brightens flavors with acidity; fresh juice is preferred but bottled lime juice can suffice in a pinch.
• Cilantro (¼ cup) – Gives a fresh, herbaceous note; omit or swap with parsley if you’re not a cilantro fan.
• Avocado (½) – The star of the dipping sauce, lending a creamy consistency; be sure it’s ripe for the best taste.
• Pinch of Salt – Balances the sauce flavors; adjust as needed.
These Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls with a delightful avocado sauce will soon become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire!
How to Make Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls
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Prepare the Filling: Start by bringing the cream cheese to room temperature. Grill or broil the corn until it’s charred and bursting with flavor; if using canned corn, just drain it. In a bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, mozzarella, jalapeños, shallot, salt, pepper, and Tajín until mixed well.
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Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling into the bottom corner of the wrapper. Roll it halfway, moisten the edges with water, fold the corners in, and continue rolling until sealed tightly.
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Cook the Egg Rolls:
- For Deep Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry each roll for 3-4 minutes until they reach a beautiful golden brown.
- For Air Frying: Lightly spray the rolls with cooking spray. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6 minutes, flip them over, and cook for an additional 6 minutes or until crispy.
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Prepare the Avocado Sauce: In a blender, add the sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, avocado, and a pinch of salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
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Serve: Enjoy the egg rolls hot, accompanied by the creamy avocado sauce for dipping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer for the best results.
Optional: Serve with salsa or guacamole for added variety.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the corn, cream cheese, mozzarella, jalapeños, shallot, salt, pepper, and Tajín. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The egg rolls can be rolled and assembled up to 3 days before cooking; just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook from the fridge without thawing to maintain their crispy texture, and enjoy a delicious, time-saving appetizer!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-cooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat cooked egg rolls in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for around 5-7 minutes to regain their crispy texture without the need for deep frying.
Assembly Tips: If assembling and freezing, wait to fry them until you’re ready to serve. This way, your crispy and cheesy elote egg rolls maintain their freshness!
What to Serve with Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls?
Elevate your next gathering with delightful dishes that complement the bold flavors of these crispy delights.
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Zesty Salsa: Fresh salsa adds a burst of vibrant flavor, perfectly balancing the richness of the egg rolls. The combination is a fiesta for your taste buds!
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Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a smooth contrast and enhances the texture of the egg rolls, complementing their crunch. Spread it generously for a taste of heaven!
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: This salad mirrors the delicious flavors of elote, featuring sweet corn, tangy lime, and fresh herbs that harmonize wonderfully with the egg rolls.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro brings a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the savory egg rolls. Serve it as a side dish for a full meal experience.
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Chilled Horchata: Refreshing and slightly sweet, horchata serves as a perfect drink to wash down the spicy kick of the egg rolls, creating a delightful balance.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad with mango, pineapple, and lime brings a light and sweet contrast to every crispy bite. It will leave your guests wanting more!
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Grilled Veggies: A side of tender grilled vegetables provides a smoky flavor that enhances the overall meal, contributing a gourmet touch to your spread.
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Fizzy Agua Fresca: This light, fruity beverage will cool your palate while adding an exciting burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the crispy and cheesy elote egg rolls.
Expert Tips for Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls
- Proper Temperature: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. This is crucial for achieving a smooth filling for your crispy and cheesy elote egg rolls.
- Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overfill the egg rolls. This can lead to bursting during cooking, ruining that delightful crispy exterior.
- Cooking Time Awareness: When air frying, monitor the cooking time closely. Keep an eye on your egg rolls to avoid burning—nobody enjoys a charred snack!
- Steady Oil Temperature: If you opt for deep frying, maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly golden finish.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to personalize your egg rolls! Explore different veggies or cheeses to make your crispy and cheesy elote egg rolls uniquely yours.
Crispy Elote Egg Roll Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these egg rolls your own with these fun and flavorful twists!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap corn for roasted zucchini or bell peppers for a vibrant, veggie-packed filling.
Experimenting with different vegetables not only adds color but also a range of textures. -
Spicy Twist: Add diced serrano or habanero peppers for an extra kick.
If you love heat, this is the perfect way to turn up the temperature in your egg rolls! -
Cheesy Goodness: Try a mix of cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a melty surprise inside.
Different cheeses bring unique flavors, so feel free to mix and match until you find your favorite combo! -
Creamy Avocado Upgrade: Add mashed avocado to the filling for added creaminess and a touch of richness.
It melds beautifully with the other ingredients, enhancing both texture and taste in your egg rolls. -
Lime Zing: Incorporate lime zest into the filling for an added citrusy brightness.
Just a touch of zest can elevate the flavor profile, making each bite pop with freshness. -
Savory Add-ins: Try including cooked black beans or corn salsa for added layers of flavor and texture.
These additions will provide a delightful twist to your classic recipe and make it even heartier. -
Sweet & Spicy Fusion: Mix in some diced pineapple for a hint of sweetness alongside spicy jalapeños.
This delightful contrast can take your taste buds on a journey, making each bite a little adventure! -
Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives combined with your favorite spring roll wrappers for a plant-based version.
It’s an easy way to create a dish that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor!
Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
What kind of corn should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh corn really highlights the flavor of these egg rolls, so if you’re able, select two ears of sweet corn. However, canned corn works just fine for convenience—just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
How should I store leftover egg rolls?
To keep your crispy and cheesy elote egg rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them from drying out while maintaining their delicious flavor!
Can I freeze the egg rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze them, lay the uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, no need to thaw—just cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if my egg rolls burst during frying?
No worries at all! If your egg rolls burst while frying, it can often be due to overfilling or not sealing the edges properly. To prevent this, ensure you’re using only about one tablespoon of filling per roll and moisten the edges well before sealing them tightly.
Can I make these egg rolls healthier?
Very much so! You can air fry the egg rolls instead of deep frying for a lighter version. Also, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream in the avocado sauce and using reduced-fat cheese to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Definitely! To adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets, simply opt for gluten-free egg roll wrappers. Many supermarkets offer great alternatives that still deliver that crispy delight without any gluten. Just make sure to check the label!
Crispy and Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls with Avocado Sauce Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Start by bringing the cream cheese to room temperature. Grill or broil the corn until it’s charred and bursting with flavor; if using canned corn, just drain it. In a bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, mozzarella, jalapeños, shallot, salt, pepper, and Tajín until mixed well.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling into the bottom corner of the wrapper. Roll it halfway, moisten the edges with water, fold the corners in, and continue rolling until sealed tightly.
- Cook the Egg Rolls: For Deep Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry each roll for 3-4 minutes until they reach a beautiful golden brown. For Air Frying: Lightly spray the rolls with cooking spray. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6 minutes, flip them over, and cook for an additional 6 minutes or until crispy.
- Prepare the Avocado Sauce: In a blender, add the sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, avocado, and a pinch of salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Serve: Enjoy the egg rolls hot, accompanied by the creamy avocado sauce for dipping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer for the best results.