These Taco Egg Rolls with Beer Cheese Sauce are a fun and unexpected twist on two classic favorites! Imagine crispy, golden brown egg rolls filled with a savory taco-spiced beef mixture, all served with a creamy, cheesy beer sauce for dipping. It’s a flavor combination that’s out of this world! These are perfect for game day, parties, or any night you’re craving something a little different.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unexpectedly Delicious: The fusion of tacos and egg rolls is a match made in heaven! The crispy egg roll wrapper perfectly complements the savory filling, and the beer cheese sauce adds a creamy, cheesy indulgence.
Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: These Taco Egg Rolls are a guaranteed hit at any gathering. They’re easy to make ahead of time, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Versatile: You can customize the filling to your liking, adding different vegetables, beans, or even swapping the ground beef for another protein. The beer cheese sauce can also be customized with different types of beer or cheese.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

Ground beef: The base of our flavorful taco filling.
Yellow onion: Finely diced for a sweet and savory flavor.
Garlic cloves: Minced for a pungent kick.
Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Cherry tomatoes: Quartered for a burst of juicy sweetness.
Green onions: Sliced for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded for gooey, cheesy goodness.
Taco seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic taco flavor.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.

For the Egg Rolls:

Egg roll wrappers: The crispy shell for our taco filling.
Vegetable oil: For frying the egg rolls to golden perfection.
Beaten egg: Used to seal the egg roll wrappers.

For the Beer Cheese Sauce:

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
All-purpose flour: Used to make a roux to thicken the sauce.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded for a sharp, cheesy flavor.
Colby Jack cheese: Adds another layer of cheesy goodness and a touch of creaminess.
Beer: Use a lager or pale ale for the best flavor.
Garlic powder: Adds a hint of garlic flavor.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.

Garnish:

Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous garnish.
Sliced green onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Taco Egg Rolls with Beer Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Make the Beer Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the beer until smooth. Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder and salt to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more beer. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Taco Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions are translucent. Stir in the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in the cilantro, green onions, and cherry tomatoes. Once slightly cooled, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 3: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the left and right corners. Roll tightly towards the top corner, brushing the edge with beaten egg to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 4: Fry the Egg Rolls

Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few egg rolls in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve

Arrange the crispy taco egg rolls on a platter, cut in half, and drizzle with warm beer cheese sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra cilantro and green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Wrapper Choice: Egg roll wrappers or spring roll pastry both work well. Egg roll wrappers are thicker and chewier, while spring roll pastry is lighter and crispier.
Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Make-Ahead and Freezing: Assemble the egg rolls and freeze them unbaked for a convenient make-ahead option.
Baking and Air frying: You can bake or air fry the egg rolls for a healthier alternative to deep frying.
Beer Cheese Sauce: Use a lager or pale ale for the sauce. If it thickens, whisk in a splash of beer or milk.

How to Serve

These Taco Egg Rolls are delicious on their own or with:

Guacamole: A classic pairing for tacos.
Sour Cream or Salsa: Adds a creamy or spicy element.
Pico de Gallo: A fresh and flavorful topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked egg rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use different fillings?

Yes, you can customize the filling with your favorite taco ingredients, such as shredded chicken, black beans, or different cheeses.

2. Can I make the beer cheese sauce without beer?

Yes, you can substitute the beer with milk or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

3. Can I bake the egg rolls instead of frying them?

Yes, brush the egg rolls with oil or spray with cooking spray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. How do I prevent the egg roll wrappers from drying out?

Keep the egg roll wrappers covered with a damp towel while assembling the egg rolls to prevent them from drying out.