Get ready to elevate your snack game! We’ve taken two universally adored comfort foods – the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese and the satisfying crunch of a classic egg roll – and fused them into one irresistible, crowd-pleasing creation: Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls. Perfect for any gathering, especially game day, these golden-fried delights promise a taste sensation that will have everyone reaching for more.

Why Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls Are Your Next Go-To Appetizer

Here at Taste and Tell, we’re always looking for innovative ways to enjoy classic dishes, and this week is no exception! As we gear up for exciting events like our 3rd annual Red Velvet Week, coming February 4th, we want to balance the sweetness with some truly spectacular savory treats. And with the big game just around the corner, there’s no better time to introduce a show-stopping appetizer that combines familiarity with an exciting twist.

I must admit, I’ve developed a bit of an obsession with egg rolls lately. They offer the perfect crunchy vessel for almost any filling, and this time, we’re taking it to a whole new level by stuffing them with the ultimate comfort food: macaroni and cheese. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy shell only to discover a warm, gooey, cheesy macaroni filling. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

This recipe also ties into the fantastic “30 Days 30 Ways with Macaroni and Cheese” event, proudly presented by the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board. This marks my second year participating in this incredible celebration of all things mac and cheese. You might remember my Pizza Pasta from last year – another testament to the versatility of this beloved dish. I’m thrilled to be back, sharing this indulgent snack that perfectly showcases the magic of Wisconsin dairy.

Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a casual get-together, or simply craving an extraordinary snack, these Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls are an absolute must-have on your menu. While you’re here, be sure to explore the other creative and delicious recipes from the “30 Days 30 Ways with Macaroni and Cheese” collection for even more inspiration!

The Art of Fusion: Combining Two Comfort Food Legends

The beauty of this dish lies in its clever combination of textures and flavors. Macaroni and cheese, a staple of American comfort food, brings its rich, creamy, and undeniably satisfying character. Egg rolls, a popular Asian-inspired appetizer, contribute a delightfully crispy exterior and a handheld format that makes them ideal for snacking. When these two forces unite, they create a snack that is both familiar and excitingly new.

We’re not just taking leftover mac and cheese and stuffing it into a wrapper. This recipe guides you through creating a perfectly seasoned, extra-creamy macaroni and cheese specifically designed to hold up to the frying process. The blend of Gruyere and Mozzarella cheeses ensures a luxurious melt and stretch, while the foundational roux provides the perfect binder for that irresistible gooey center.

Crafting the Perfect Mac and Cheese for Your Egg Rolls

The heart of these egg rolls is, of course, the macaroni and cheese itself. Achieving the right consistency is key. You want it rich and flavorful, but also firm enough to handle when stuffing the wrappers. Here’s a closer look at the components:

• **The Pasta:** We start with half a pound of macaroni. Cooking it al dente is crucial because it will continue to cook slightly during the frying process. Overcooked pasta will result in a mushy filling, which we definitely want to avoid.
• **The Roux:** A classic béchamel base made from butter and flour forms the creamy foundation. Whisking the flour into melted butter and cooking for a minute helps eliminate any raw flour taste.
• **The Dairy:** A combination of half and half and milk creates a rich yet balanced sauce. Heating the milk mixture gently before adding it to the roux helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, silky cheese sauce.
• **The Cheese Blend:** This recipe uses Gruyere and Mozzarella. Gruyere offers a wonderful nutty, slightly sweet, and complex flavor profile that elevates the mac and cheese beyond basic. Mozzarella, on the other hand, is a master of melt, providing that coveted stretchy, gooey texture. Feel free to experiment with other good melting cheeses like sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a smoked gouda for different flavor dimensions.
• **Seasoning:** Salt, pepper, and a touch of ground mustard are essential. Ground mustard is a secret weapon in many cheese sauces, as it subtly enhances the cheesy flavor without making the dish taste like mustard. Adjust seasonings to your preference, and don’t be shy about tasting as you go!

Once your macaroni and cheese is prepared, the most critical step for successful egg rolls is allowing it to cool completely. This firming-up period is non-negotiable. Warm or hot mac and cheese will be difficult to handle, will make the wrappers soggy, and can lead to messy leaks during frying. Refrigerating it overnight is ideal, but at least a few hours in the fridge will do the trick.

Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yields: 10 servings

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

These Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls are the ultimate game day appetizer, combining creamy mac and cheese with a crispy egg roll wrapper for an unforgettable snack.

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb macaroni pasta
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 oz Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 4 oz Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1 package (approx. 1 lb) egg roll wrappers
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, gently warm the half and half and milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Do not let it boil; just heat until steamy and warm. Remove from heat.
3. In another large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 5 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded Gruyere and Mozzarella cheeses until completely melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce generously with salt, pepper, and ground mustard. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Add the cooked, drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to thoroughly combine. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a shallow dish or baking pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, until firm. This step is crucial for easy wrapping and to prevent leakage during frying.
7. When the macaroni and cheese is thoroughly chilled and firm, prepare for frying. Place a large, heavy-duty pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add several inches of vegetable oil, enough to submerge the egg rolls, and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
8. To assemble the egg rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond). Place approximately 1/4 cup of the cooled macaroni and cheese filling just below the center of the wrapper.
9. Fold the corner closest to you over the filling, tucking it snugly. Fold in the left and right corners towards the center, creating an envelope shape. Moisten the remaining exposed edges of the wrapper with a little water (using your finger) to help seal.
10. Continue rolling the wrapper tightly away from you until you reach the last corner. Press firmly to seal the edge. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
11. Carefully place a few assembled egg rolls into the preheated oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry, turning occasionally with tongs, for 3-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
12. Using tongs or a spider strainer, remove the fried egg rolls from the oil and transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls

• **Chill the Filling:** This cannot be stressed enough. Cold, firm mac and cheese is much easier to work with and less likely to seep out during frying.
• **Don’t Overfill:** Too much filling will make it hard to roll and prone to bursting. About 1/4 cup per wrapper is usually perfect.
• **Seal Tightly:** Use water to moisten the edges and press firmly to create a good seal. Any gaps can lead to oil seeping in or filling oozing out.
• **Maintain Oil Temperature:** An oil thermometer is your best friend. If the oil is too cold, the egg rolls will absorb too much grease and become soggy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before the inside is fully heated through.
• **Batch Fry:** Fry in small batches to maintain a consistent oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• **Drain Properly:** Placing the fried egg rolls on a wire rack allows air circulation and helps them stay crispy. Paper towels underneath will catch any excess oil.

Creative Variations & Serving Suggestions

While these Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls are phenomenal on their own, don’t hesitate to get creative with add-ins and dipping sauces!

Flavorful Add-Ins for Your Mac and Cheese:

• **Bacon:** Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch.
• **Jalapeños:** Finely diced fresh or pickled jalapeños (or both!) for a spicy kick.
• **Pulled Pork/Chicken:** Shredded BBQ pulled pork or buffalo chicken can turn these into a heartier meal.
• **Spices:** A pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce in the mac and cheese can add depth.
• **Different Cheeses:** Swap out Gruyere for sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses.

Delicious Dipping Sauces:

• **Ranch Dressing:** A classic pairing for anything fried.
• **Sriracha Mayo:** For a creamy, spicy kick.
• **Ketchup:** A simple but satisfying choice, especially for the kids (and adults!).
• **Marinara Sauce:** A surprising but delicious complement, almost like a cheesy pasta bite.
• **Honey Mustard:** Adds a tangy sweetness.
• **Chipotle Ranch:** Mimicking the original blog’s avocado egg roll pairing.

Healthier Alternatives: Baking or Air Frying Mac and Cheese Egg Rolls

If deep-frying isn’t your preference, these Mac and Cheese Egg Rolls can also be baked or air-fried for a lighter take without sacrificing much crispiness.

For Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly brush the assembled egg rolls with a little vegetable oil or olive oil.
3. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

For Air Frying:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking spray.
3. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. You’ll likely need to work in batches.
4. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, it’s best to use an air fryer or oven. Reheat in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy.

For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the egg rolls and freeze them before frying. Place the un-fried egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, you can fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion: A New Favorite for Your Table

These Macaroni and Cheese Egg Rolls are more than just an appetizer; they’re a culinary statement. They bring together the beloved comfort of homemade mac and cheese with the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried egg roll, creating a dish that is both playful and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for a unique potluck contribution, or simply want to treat yourself to an indulgent snack, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to delight your taste buds and your guests with these unforgettable crispy, cheesy bites. Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences with us!