Oh, Thanksgiving! The time of year when our homes are filled with the most delightful aromas of roasted turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and warm stuffing. It’s a season all about family, feasting, and, of course, the joy of creating new recipes that bring a twist to beloved traditions. That’s where these Thanksgiving egg rolls come in! Imagine all those classic holiday flavors wrapped up in a crispy, golden shell—what’s not to love?
I remember the first time I decided to blend the essence of Thanksgiving into something a bit more fun and portable. My family was gathering, and I wanted to create an appetizer that would get everyone excited. These egg rolls were born out of that desire, and they’ve become a staple at our holiday gatherings ever since. They’re super convenient, too! You can whip them up ahead of time and just fry them when your guests arrive, filling your kitchen with that mouthwatering scent. Trust me, they’re a hit every time, and they add a unique flair to the traditional feast.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded turkey (leftover turkey works perfectly!)
- 1 cup packed cranberry sauce (feel free to use homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup stuffing mix (you can use your favorite variety for added flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (because who doesn’t love cheese?)
- 12 egg roll wrappers (you can find these in the refrigerated section of your grocery store)
- Oil for frying (enough to fill your pan about an inch deep)
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Egg Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
First things first, let’s whip up that delicious filling! In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded turkey, 1 cup of packed cranberry sauce, 1 cup of stuffing mix, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Just give everything a good mix until it’s all combined and coated in that sweet and savory goodness. Trust me, the smell alone will have you drooling!
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Now, it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Take an egg roll wrapper and lay it on a clean surface with one corner facing you (like a diamond shape). Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Here’s the fun part: fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and finally roll it tightly away from you. Make sure to seal the edges with a little water to keep everything inside. You want these babies to be snug and secure!
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
Let’s get cooking! Heat about an inch of oil in a large pan over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of leftover wrapper; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Carefully place your assembled egg rolls in the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once they’re done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. And just like that, you’ve got yourself some mouthwatering Thanksgiving egg rolls!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy holiday gatherings!
- Delicious combination of classic Thanksgiving flavors all wrapped up in one bite.
- Customizable! Use your favorite leftovers, whether it’s turkey, ham, or even veggies.
- Fun and unique twist on traditional holiday dishes that will impress your guests.
- Great for serving as appetizers or as part of a festive buffet.
- Can be made ahead of time—just fry them up when you’re ready to serve!
- Everyone loves that crispy texture paired with the savory filling.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make these fantastic Thanksgiving egg rolls, let me share some of my best tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!
- Temperature Check: It’s crucial to make sure your oil is at the right temperature! If it’s too hot, your egg rolls will burn on the outside while staying raw inside. Use a thermometer if you have one—around 350°F (175°C) is ideal. If not, just drop a small piece of the wrapper in; it should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches! Giving your egg rolls some space allows them to cook evenly and get that gorgeous golden color. Plus, overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy rolls. No one wants that!
- Seal It Right: Be sure to seal the edges of your egg rolls well with water; this keeps the filling from escaping during frying. I like to pinch the edges to make sure they’re tight—think of it as giving your egg rolls a little hug!
- Alternative Cooking Methods: If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can absolutely bake these! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.
- Experiment with Fillings: The beauty of these egg rolls is in their versatility! Don’t hesitate to throw in your favorite leftovers or even some roasted veggies. You can tailor the filling to your crew’s taste, making each batch uniquely delicious!
With these tips in your back pocket, I just know you’ll nail it! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, I know you might be curious about what you’re munching on, so here’s a little breakdown of the nutritional information for these delightful Thanksgiving egg rolls. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so they might vary slightly depending on what you use:
- Serving Size: 1 egg roll
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 5g
So there you have it! These egg rolls pack in some tasty flavors without completely derailing your holiday eating plans. Plus, with all that protein from the turkey, they make for a satisfying snack or appetizer. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite guilt-free!
FAQs
How do I store leftover Thanksgiving egg rolls?
You can keep any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they cool completely before sealing them up!
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking is a fantastic alternative if you want to keep things a bit lighter. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place your egg rolls on a lined baking sheet, and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden. Yum!
What dipping sauces go well with Thanksgiving egg rolls?
Oh, the dipping sauce makes all the difference! I love serving them with extra cranberry sauce for a sweet touch, but you could also try a tangy barbecue sauce, a creamy ranch, or even a zesty chipotle mayo. Get creative and find your favorite combo!
Can I use different fillings?
Definitely! These egg rolls are super customizable. Feel free to mix and match with any of your favorite Thanksgiving leftovers, like ham, veggies, or even mashed potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
How do I reheat leftover egg rolls?
To keep that crispy texture, I recommend reheating in the oven. Just pop them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re short on time, a quick blast in the microwave works too, but they won’t be quite as crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These Thanksgiving egg rolls are such a fun and unique addition to any holiday spread, but why stop there? Let’s elevate your meal experience with some delicious complementary dishes that pair perfectly with these crispy delights!
- Classic Green Bean Casserole: This creamy, savory side dish is a Thanksgiving staple! Its rich flavors and crunchy topping make a perfect contrast to the crispy egg rolls.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes brings a lovely balance to the savory egg rolls. Toss them in a bit of cinnamon for an extra touch of fall flavor!
- Cranberry Relish: Serve a fresh cranberry relish on the side for that tart kick! It complements the flavors in the egg rolls beautifully and adds a vibrant pop of color to your table.
- Stuffing Balls: If you have leftover stuffing, why not make little stuffing balls? They’re easy to pop into your mouth and will tie in that comforting stuffing flavor!
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the egg rolls. Plus, it’s a great way to add some crunch!
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm, spiced pumpkin soup makes for a cozy starter. The smooth texture and warm spices are the perfect way to kick off your meal.
With these side dishes, you’ll create a festive and well-rounded feast that showcases all the best flavors of the season. Enjoy serving up these Thanksgiving egg rolls alongside your favorite holiday classics for a meal that’s sure to impress!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve got some delicious Thanksgiving egg rolls on your hands, it’s important to store them properly to keep that crispy goodness intact! Here’s how I do it:
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover egg rolls (which is always a bummer, but hey, more for later!), let them cool completely first. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, so they don’t stick together!
- Freezing for Later: Want to save some for a future snacking spree? You can absolutely freeze your egg rolls! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, no need to thaw—just pop them straight into the oven!
Now, let’s talk about reheating these crispy delights to ensure they stay as tasty as when you first made them!
- Oven Method: This is my favorite way to reheat egg rolls and keep that crunch! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy again. Flip them halfway for even heating!
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a pinch and need a quick fix, the microwave works, but just know they won’t be as crispy. Place the egg rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Thanksgiving egg rolls even after the holiday! They make for such a tasty snack or appetizer anytime you crave a little holiday flair. Happy munching!
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Thanksgiving Egg Rolls: 5 Delicious Ways to Impress Guests
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 egg rolls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious egg rolls filled with Thanksgiving flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded turkey
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup stuffing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and cheese.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture on each egg roll wrapper.
- Fold and seal the wrappers tightly.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the egg rolls until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with extra cranberry sauce for dipping.
- Can be baked instead of fried for a healthier option.
- Customize the filling with your favorite Thanksgiving leftovers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 egg roll
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: thanksgiving egg rolls, turkey egg rolls, holiday appetizers
