Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that will impress your friends and family, look no further than this Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe! These crispy little pockets of joy are filled with creamy goodness and a hint of garlic, making them the perfect start to any meal or a tasty snack on their own. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a cozy movie night, or just want to treat yourself after a busy day, these rangoons are sure to hit the spot.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that tastes just like your favorite takeout dish! Plus, they’re versatile enough to suit various occasions—from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy filling and crispy exterior—everyone will be reaching for seconds!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the rangoons in advance and fry them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Feel free to play around with the filling ingredients based on what you have on hand!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, scallions, and garlic creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. No elaborate shopping lists here—just grab what you need and let’s get cooking!

• vegetable oil (for frying)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 3 tbsp thinly sliced scallions
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 48 wonton wrappers

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in some chili flakes or sriracha for a kick of heat.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even some shredded carrots into the filling for added nutrition.
• Herb It Up: Toss in some fresh parsley or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Swap out half of the cream cheese for ricotta cheese or add in some shredded mozzarella for an interesting twist.

How to Make Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a medium frying pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F. The oil should be about 3 inches deep. This high temperature ensures that your rangoons become perfectly crispy without absorbing too much oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, sliced scallions, and garlic powder until well combined. This step is crucial as it melds all those delicious flavors into one smooth mixture that will fill your wontons perfectly.

Step 3: Fill the Wontons

Take about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture and place it in the center of each wonton wrapper. Brush the edges with some room temperature water. This helps seal them tightly so none of that tasty filling escapes while frying!

Step 4: Shape Them Up

Fold each wonton by bringing two opposite corners together and pinching firmly at the seams. Then do the same with the other two corners. This iconic shape not only looks great but also ensures even cooking!

Step 5: Frying Time!

Carefully place your shaped wontons into the hot oil—be careful not to overcrowd them! Fry until they are golden brown and deliciously crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and allow them to drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let your freshly made rangoons cool down for about 5-10 minutes before serving them with sweet and sour dipping sauce. Trust me; they will disappear faster than you can say “Panda Express!”

Pro Tips for Making Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

Making these delicious rangoons is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Use room temperature cream cheese – This ensures that your filling is smooth and easy to spread, preventing any lumps that can make folding difficult.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot – Frying in small batches allows the rangoons to cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color without getting soggy.
• Seal them well – Make sure to pinch the edges of the wonton wrappers firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out while frying. A good seal will result in crispy, flavorful bites.
• Experiment with fillings – While this recipe calls for cream cheese and scallions, feel free to get creative! Add some crab meat or diced veggies for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Keep an eye on oil temperature – If the oil is too hot, the rangoons will burn; if it’s too cool, they will absorb excess oil. A kitchen thermometer can help you maintain the perfect frying temperature at 350F.

How to Serve Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe

Presentation is key when serving these delightful appetizers! Here are some fun ways to serve your freshly made cream cheese rangoons that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh scallions – Sprinkling some chopped scallions on top adds a pop of color and complements the filling beautifully.
• Sesame seeds – Toasted sesame seeds not only enhance visual appeal but also add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy interior.

Side Dishes

• Sweet and sour sauce – This classic dipping sauce provides a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the cream cheese, making each bite even more delightful.
• Vegetable spring rolls – Crispy vegetable spring rolls are a great companion, offering a crunchy texture and fresh flavors that complement the creamy rangoons perfectly.
• Fried rice – A savory fried rice dish can be a hearty addition to your appetizer spread, making it more substantial and satisfying while keeping with an Asian theme.
• Steamed dumplings – These soft, savory bites are another fantastic option that pairs beautifully with cream cheese rangoons, providing a lovely variety of textures and flavors on your table.

By following these simple serving ideas and pro tips, you’ll create an unforgettable culinary experience that brings warmth and joy to every gathering! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons are perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked rangoons to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, arrange uncooked rangoons on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat fried rangoons in an air fryer or oven at 350F until warmed through and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but they may lose their crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make the Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free wonton wrappers as a substitute. Just ensure that all ingredients used are gluten-free.

How do I store leftover Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before cooking.

Can I bake these instead of frying for the Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe?

Absolutely! Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 375F for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. They’ll be a bit different, but still delicious!

What can I serve with my Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons?

They pair wonderfully with sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce for dipping. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauces!

How many servings does this Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Recipe make?

This recipe yields about 48 rangoons, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoons as much as I do! They’re not just a tasty treat; they’re a fantastic way to impress family and friends at any gathering. Don’t forget to dip them in your favorite sauce for an extra burst of flavor! Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy bite!