0 Shares

The first bite of a crispy elote egg roll is like a festive celebration for your taste buds. Imagine the buttery sweetness of grilled corn, mingling with the rich creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in an irresistibly crunchy shell. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, this recipe transforms a beloved classic into a fun, snackable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or just looking for a cozy nights-in comfort food, these elote egg rolls promise to impress. Plus, you have the option to deep-fry them for that golden perfection or whip them up in an air fryer for a lighter twist. Either way, you’ll find these crispy and cheesy bites paired beautifully with a cooling avocado sauce, adding that final touch of freshness. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Why love Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls?

Unforgettable Flavor: Each bite bursts with the sweet, smoky essence of grilled corn combined with creamy cheese, creating a delightful flavor fusion.

Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you prefer the traditional deep-fried crispiness or the healthier air-fried version, these egg rolls cater to your cooking style.

Perfect for Every Occasion: From game nights to casual gatherings, these appetizers are sure to be crowd-pleasers that disappear quickly!

Easy Assembly: The simple rolling method makes these egg rolls fun and easy to make, perfect for a cooking night with family or friends.

Dip it Right: Pair them with a refreshing avocado sauce to elevate your snacking experience and add a burst of freshness!

Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Roll Ingredients

For the Egg Rolls

Egg Roll Wrappers – Essential for holding the filling; substitute with spring roll wrappers for a thinner option.
Corn on the Cob (2 ears or 1.5 cans) – Provides flavor and texture; canned corn is a convenient alternative, just drain and dry.
Cream Cheese (8 oz) – Adds creaminess; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing or replace it with ricotta for a lighter touch.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1/2 cup) – Offers cheese flavor and stretchiness; any melting cheese like Monterey Jack can be substituted.
Jalapeños (2 diced) – Adds heat; omit for a milder flavor or use bell peppers for a hint of sweetness.
Shallot (1 diced) – Gives aroma and sweetness; yellow onion can work in a pinch.
Salt and Pepper (1 pinch each) – Enhances seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Tajín Chili Lime Seasoning (1 tsp) – Boosts flavor; you can swap it for chili powder and lime zest if it’s unavailable.

For the Avocado Sauce

Sour Cream (1/2 cup) – Serves as the base for the sauce; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
Juice of 2 Limes – Adds brightness; fresh lime juice is preferred, although bottled can be used in a pinch.
Cilantro (1/4 cup) – Infuses freshness; substitute with parsley if needed.
Avocado (1/2) – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; guacamole can be used instead for additional flavor.

This recipe is all about crafting delicious Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls, bringing a taste of Mexican fusion right to your table!

How to Make Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls

Prepare the Filling:
Start by softening the cream cheese to room temperature. Grill or char the corn on the cob until slightly charred, or use canned corn for convenience. In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, jalapeños, shallot, salt, pepper, and Tajín until well mixed.
Assemble the Egg Rolls:
Lay the egg roll wrappers in a diamond shape on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the bottom corner, then roll it halfway. Moisten the edges with water to create a seal, fold in the corners, and finish rolling tightly.
Cooking Instructions:
For Deep Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and carefully fry the egg rolls until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
For Air Frying: Lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking spray, then cook at 390°F (200°C) for 6 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 6 minutes until crispy.
Prepare the Avocado Sauce:
In a blender, combine sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, avocado, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Serve:
Serve the crispy elote egg rolls hot with a generous side of avocado sauce for dipping. Enjoy the burst of flavor with every bite!

Optional: Drizzle with extra lime juice and sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls are perfect for busy cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can prepare the filling (cream cheese, corn, cheese, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can assemble the egg rolls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days—just be sure to cover them well to keep the wrappers from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, cook them straight from the fridge—just adjust the cooking time by a minute or two for the best results. Enjoy the ability to create this delicious appetizer with minimal effort on game day or a busy weeknight!

Expert Tips for Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls

Perfectly Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing; this ensures a smooth filling that blends effortlessly without lumps.
Avoid Overfilling: Stay within the recommended tablespoon of filling per egg roll. Overfilling can lead to tearing or bursting during cooking, leaving a mess instead of delicious bites.
Optimal Frying Temperature: For deep frying, always confirm the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the egg rolls. This ensures they become golden and crispy rather than greasy.
Gentle Rolling Technique: Be gentle while rolling the egg rolls. A light touch prevents the wrappers from tearing, which can compromise the delicious crispy texture of your elote egg rolls.
Versatile Serving Suggestions: While the avocado sauce complements the egg rolls perfectly, don’t shy away from pairing them with fresh salsa or a zesty crema for added flavor dimensions.

What to Serve with Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls?

Elevate your gathering with a delightful array of side dishes and accompaniments that will complement these crispy, cheesy treats.

Fresh Guacamole: A classic pairing that brings a creamy, tangy freshness to the crispiness of the egg rolls. It enhances the Mexican flavor profile beautifully.
Zesty Salsa: Bright and vibrant, fresh salsa adds a burst of acidity and spice that cuts through the richness of the egg rolls, making every bite better.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad echoes the elote inspiration with its sweet corn, tangy lime, and creamy notes—making for a deliciously cohesive meal.
Crispy Churros: For a sweet contrast, serve warm churros with a side of chocolate dipping sauce. Their sugary crunch rounds out your meal perfectly.
Chilled Paloma Cocktails: Refreshing and light, these grapefruit and tequila cocktails provide a fizzy complement to the richer flavors of the egg rolls.
Lime Cilantro Rice: A fragrant and zesty side, this rice dish balances the crispy, cheesy nature of the egg rolls while enhancing the overall theme.
Creamy Avocado Sauce: While it technically accompanies the egg rolls, serving this smooth dip on the side allows guests to indulge or adjust creaminess to their liking while adding extra freshness.

Serve these alongside your Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls for a meal that captures the heart and soul of a lively fiesta!

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls

Feel free to get creative with these delightful egg rolls, allowing you to explore fun twists and meaningful substitutions!

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or add a sharp cheddar for a richer flavor.
Protein Pack: Stir in cooked and crumbled chorizo or shredded chicken for a satisfying heartier filling that takes these egg rolls to the next level of deliciousness.
Spice It Up: For a bolder flavor, add spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the filling, offering a deeper, smoky taste that perfectly complements the corn.
Herb Alternatives: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, replace it with fresh dill or basil for a unique aromatic touch that brightens the sauce beautifully.
Sauce Whirl: Stir in a spoonful of chipotle sauce into your avocado sauce for a smoky, spicy twist that elevates your dipping experience.
Vegan Option: Swap cream cheese and sour cream for cashew cream or vegan cream cheese to keep your egg rolls creamy while making them entirely plant-based.
Crunchy Surprise: Add chopped nuts, like toasted pistachios or almonds, into the filling for a delightful texture twist that adds both crunch and flavor.
Extra Freshness: Incorporate grated zucchini into the filling to sneak in some extra veggies while keeping it moist and delicious.

These variations and substitutions are not just ideas—they’re invitations to make this recipe your own! Each change can be a delightful surprise, ensuring your egg rolls will remain a cherished crowd favorite.

Storage Tips for Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls

Room Temperature: Enjoy your egg rolls warm straight after cooking. If left out, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Fridge: Store leftover crispy elote egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat stored egg rolls in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, fresh corn on the cob is recommended. Grill or char it until slightly caramelized for that smoky note. If you’re in a pinch, you can easily use drained canned corn—just make sure to dry it off to prevent excess moisture in your filling!

How should I store leftover egg rolls?
For storing your crispy elote egg rolls, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.

Can I freeze the egg rolls before cooking?
Absolutely! To freeze the egg rolls, lay them out uncooked on a baking sheet in a single layer until they’re frozen solid—this prevents them from sticking together. After they’ve hardened, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months! When you’re ready to eat, cook them straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time.

What if my egg rolls burst while frying?
Not to worry! If your egg rolls burst, it usually indicates they’ve been overfilled. To avoid this in the future, stick to about 1 tablespoon of filling per roll. Ensure you’re sealing the edges tightly with water and handling them gently while rolling to maintain their structure.

Are there any dietary considerations for these egg rolls?
Yes! If you have dairy allergies, you can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth for a vegan option. Additionally, if spice is a concern, feel free to omit the jalapeños or replace them with mild bell peppers for a sweeter flavor instead.

How long will the avocado sauce last in the fridge?
The avocado sauce can stay fresh in the fridge for about 2 to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. To keep it from browning, try pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce. Enjoy it with your egg rolls or as a dip for fresh veggies!

These reliable tips will surely help you create the perfect Crispy & Cheesy Elote Egg Rolls while making the cooking experience enjoyable!