Crispy Big Mac Egg Rolls: Your Favorite Burger Flavors in a Golden Wrapper
Prepare for a culinary adventure that brings together the best of two beloved worlds: the iconic, comforting flavors of a juicy Big Mac and the irresistibly crispy, golden crunch of a deep-fried egg roll. These Big Mac Egg Rolls aren’t just a snack; they’re a revelation, transforming a classic fast-food favorite into an exciting, portable appetizer or a unique main dish.
Why You’ll Love This Big Mac Egg Roll Recipe
This recipe isn’t just a novelty; it’s a brilliant fusion that simply works. Imagine biting into that familiar savory ground beef, tangy pickles, zesty special sauce, and gooey cheese, all encased in a perfectly crisp, golden-brown egg roll wrapper instead of a bun. It’s an explosion of texture and flavor that elevates the Big Mac experience to an entirely new dimension. You get all the craveable components of a Big Mac—minus the often-soggy bun—and replace it with a delightful, satisfying crunch. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone who loves both classic burgers and crispy finger foods.
The beauty of these Big Mac Egg Rolls lies in their simplicity and the ingenious way they capture the essence of a Big Mac. They’re perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun twist on dinner. This innovative approach to a beloved burger will have everyone asking for your secret. Let’s get ready to transform your kitchen into a Big Mac-inspired culinary lab!
Essential Ingredients for Big Mac Egg Rolls
To craft these incredible Big Mac Egg Rolls, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that perfectly mimic the iconic burger’s flavor profile. You can find all specific measurements, quantities, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the very end of this post.
Ingredient Breakdown and Clever Substitutions
- Lean Ground Sirloin: We recommend lean ground sirloin for its flavor and lower fat content, which helps prevent overly greasy egg rolls. However, any ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) will work. If you use a higher fat percentage, be sure to drain the fat very thoroughly after browning to avoid soggy wrappers. For a healthier twist, you could even experiment with ground turkey or chicken, though the classic Big Mac flavor will be slightly altered.
- Garlic Salt & Black Pepper: These simple seasonings are key to flavoring the ground beef. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your taste. You could also add a pinch of onion powder or a dash of paprika for extra depth.
- Ketchup & Mustard: Classic condiments that bind the beef and add a familiar tang. Use your favorite brands.
- Egg Roll Wrappers: This is a crucial component! Always opt for dedicated egg roll wrappers, not wonton wrappers. Egg roll wrappers are notably thicker and larger, designed to withstand frying and hold a generous filling without tearing. You can typically find them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, often near the produce or dairy aisles. Ensure they are fresh and pliable for easy rolling.
- Cheddar Cheese Slices: The classic Big Mac uses American cheese, but cheddar slices melt beautifully and provide that rich, savory creaminess. Slicing them in half makes them easier to distribute within the egg roll. Shredded cheddar can also be used; just ensure it’s evenly spread. Other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses could also be delicious.
- Thousand Island Dressing (Big Mac Sauce): The secret sauce is non-negotiable for authentic Big Mac flavor! Thousand Island dressing is a very close cousin. We use premade to keep it simple, but for those who love to DIY, check out our Big Mac Casserole post where we share a fantastic homemade Big Mac sauce recipe, complete with ingredients and instructions. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up from pantry staples!
- Chopped Onion: Finely diced white or yellow onion adds a pungent, fresh bite that’s essential to the Big Mac profile. Mince it very finely for even distribution.
- Dill Pickles: Dill pickle chips are the undisputed choice for a classic Big Mac taste. Their briny, tangy crunch is irreplaceable. If you absolutely prefer sweet pickles, you can substitute them, but be aware it will significantly alter the traditional flavor. You can also experiment with finely chopped cornichons for a slightly different tang.
- Vegetable Oil for Frying: A high smoke point and neutral flavor are essential for frying. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all excellent choices. You’ll need enough to deep fry the egg rolls, ensuring they are fully submerged or at least half-submerged when frying in batches.
- Sesame Seeds (Optional Garnish): A sprinkle of sesame seeds right after frying adds that unmistakable Big Mac bun aesthetic and a subtle nutty flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Big Mac Egg Rolls
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe perfectly. For a concise, printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and all instructions, you can Jump to Recipe at the bottom of the page.
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Add your lean ground beef to a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Season generously with garlic salt and black pepper. Brown the meat thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat by transferring the beef to a colander placed over a bowl or pan. This step is crucial for preventing greasy egg rolls. Return the drained beef to the skillet and stir in the ketchup and mustard until well combined. The mixture should be well-coated and fragrant.
- Cool the Beef Mixture: After draining and mixing with condiments, transfer the warm beef mixture from the colander to a baking sheet, spreading it out in a single layer. Allow it to cool completely. Cooling the filling helps prevent the egg roll wrappers from becoming soggy or cooking unevenly during assembly and frying.
- Set Up Your Workstation: Lay your egg roll wrappers onto a clean, flat work surface. Arrange them in a diamond shape with one corner pointing towards you. This orientation makes rolling easier.
- Layer the Fillings: To the center of each egg roll wrapper, layer the ingredients in this order: two halves of cheddar cheese slices (they should slightly overlap or be side-by-side), followed by 1 tablespoon each of Thousand Island dressing, finely chopped onions, and finely chopped dill pickles. Distribute them evenly, leaving enough space around the edges for sealing.
- Add the Beef: Next, add approximately one ounce of the cooled ground beef mixture to the top of the other fillings. You can eyeball this; the goal is to distribute the beef evenly over all 12 egg roll wrappers. Don’t overfill, as this can make rolling difficult and cause wrappers to burst during frying.
- Moisten the Edges: Using your finger, lightly wet all four edges of the egg roll wrapper with water. This creates a seal that will hold the egg roll together during frying.
- Roll ‘Em Up: Take the corner closest to you and fold it tightly over the filling, tucking the tip underneath. Then, fold the two side corners inwards towards the center. Finally, roll the wrapper tightly away from you, creating a neat, compact cylinder. Ensure the ends are securely sealed to prevent filling from escaping. A tight roll will also result in a crispier egg roll.
- Preheat Your Fryer: Preheat your deep fryer or a deep-sided skillet filled with at least 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Accurate oil temperature is vital for perfectly crispy, non-greasy egg rolls. Use a thermometer if you don’t have a built-in fryer thermostat.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Carefully lower the egg rolls into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can drop the oil temperature and lead to soggy egg rolls. Fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy. They will usually float to the top as they cook through.
- Drain and Garnish: Once fried, carefully remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Add Sesame Seeds (Optional): If desired, immediately sprinkle sesame seeds over the hot egg rolls right after they come out of the oil. The residual heat and oil will help them adhere.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
Leftover Big Mac egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best crispness, it’s generally recommended to enjoy them fresh, but they can be reheated.
Can I make them ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls and store them uncooked in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. If freezing uncooked, place them on a baking sheet to flash freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1-2 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
The best way to reheat egg rolls and restore their crispiness is in an oven or air fryer. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. In an air fryer, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a dash of oil, turning frequently, for a few minutes until crisp.
When deep frying, it’s crucial to use an oil with a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. Vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil are all excellent choices. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required for frying without breaking down or imparting undesirable flavors to your food.
While deep frying provides the crispiest result, you can certainly bake or air fry them for a lighter option. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush the egg rolls with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. For the air fryer, preheat to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the egg rolls with oil, and cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Results may vary slightly in texture compared to deep-frying.
Use fresh, pliable egg roll wrappers. Ensure you don’t overfill them, and always moisten the edges thoroughly with water before rolling to create a strong seal. When rolling, be firm but gentle, ensuring a tight wrap without excessive pressure that could cause tearing.
Serving Suggestions for Your Big Mac Egg Rolls
These incredible Big Mac Egg Rolls are fantastic on their own, but a few simple additions can truly complete the experience. The most obvious, and highly recommended, is to serve them with a generous side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping. This mimics the classic Big Mac sauce and adds an extra layer of creamy, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory filling.
For an authentic touch, consider sprinkling a few sesame seeds on top of the egg rolls immediately after frying, just like the bun of a Big Mac. You can also drizzle some extra Thousand Island dressing over the top and garnish with a sprinkling of finely shredded iceberg lettuce for added freshness and a pop of color. These crispy, flavorful egg rolls are truly a show-stopping appetizer for any gathering, whether it’s a casual party, a lively football game, or a fun family dinner. Pair them with a simple green salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal. Enjoy creating and sharing this unique and undeniably delicious treat!
More Delicious & Related Recipes to Try
If you loved this creative take on a classic, you’ll be thrilled to explore more of our fusion and comfort food recipes:
- Big Mac Salad: All the flavors of the burger, without the carb-heavy bun.
- Reuben Egg Rolls: Another fantastic sandwich-turned-egg-roll creation!
- Big Mac Casserole: A hearty, comforting meal inspired by the iconic burger.
- Egg Roll in a Bowl: A deconstructed, low-carb version of the classic egg roll.
- Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: Another savory, cheesy egg roll sensation.
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Big Mac Egg Rolls
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground sirloin
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons ketchup
- 2 Tablespoons mustard
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 12 slices cheddar cheese cut in half
- 12 Tablespoons Thousand island dressing 3/4 cup
- 12 Tablespoons chopped onion 3/4 cup
- 12 Tablespoons chopped dill pickles 3/4 cup
- vegetable oil for frying
- 1 Tablespoon sesame seeds optional as garnish
Things You’ll Need
-
Large heavy bottomed skillet
-
Colander
-
Deep fryer or deep sided skillet
Before You Begin
- It’s best to use an oil with both a high smoke point and neutral flavor when deep frying. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good options when making egg rolls. This ensures your egg rolls cook evenly and absorb less oil, resulting in a crispier, less greasy finish.
- Don’t confuse egg roll wrappers with wonton wrappers. Egg roll wrappers are sturdier and larger, which makes them much better for frying larger amounts of fillings without tearing. Wonton wrappers are much thinner and smaller, suited for delicate dumplings or small fried bites.
- Big Mac sauce is very similar to Thousand Island dressing, which is why we decided to keep it simple by using the premade stuff. However, if you would like to make your own homemade Big Mac sauce, pop over to our Big Mac Casserole post for the exact recipe and ingredients!
- Ensure your ground beef mixture is completely cooled before assembling the egg rolls. Warm filling can make the wrappers soggy and difficult to handle, leading to a less crispy end product.
Instructions
-
Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with garlic salt and black pepper and brown the meat. Drain excess fat, if any. Add ketchup and mustard and stir to combine.
-
Place a colander over a bowl or pan and add meat mixture, draining any excess liquid. Place drained meat on a baking sheet in a single layer to cool completely.
-
Place egg roll wrappers onto a clean, flat work surface in a diamond shape.
-
To the center of each egg roll wrapper, layer two halves of cheese, and 1 tablespoon each of dressing, onions, and pickles.
-
Next add about an ounce of the cooled ground beef (or eyeball to distribute evenly over 12 wrappers).
-
Using some water on your finger, wet all four edges of the egg roll wrapper to create a seal.
-
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Roll the wrapper tightly up to seal all the filling inside, ensuring a compact shape.
-
Preheat deep fryer or deep-sided skillet with oil to 375°F (190°C).
-
Carefully fry egg rolls in batches for about 7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. They will begin floating to the top as they cook.
-
Remove from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
-
If desired, sprinkle warm egg rolls with sesame seeds immediately after frying for garnish. Serve hot with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Store your leftover egg rolls in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat to regain crispness.
- The best way to reheat egg rolls is to place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and heat in a 350F oven until warmed through, around 10 minutes or so. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350F or in a skillet over medium heat with a dash of oil for a few minutes until crispy.
- For a lighter option, you can bake or air fry the egg rolls instead of deep frying. See the FAQs section above for specific instructions on these methods.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer. Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking and maximum crispness.
- For added Big Mac authenticity, finely shred some iceberg lettuce and sprinkle it on top of the egg rolls right before serving, or mix it into the dipping sauce.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.