Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Egg Rolls are a healthier, crispy alternative to traditional deep-fried egg rolls. Using the air fryer, these egg rolls achieve a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the filling moist and flavorful, without the need for excessive oil. Packed with vegetables, protein, and savory seasonings, they make a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish.

The air fryer method not only reduces fat content but also simplifies the cooking process. Homemade egg rolls allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring fresh vegetables and seasonings in every bite. They are a great way to enjoy a favorite Chinese-American dish in a lighter, easy-to-make format.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it provides all the crispiness of traditional egg rolls without the greasiness of deep frying. The filling is flavorful, full of fresh vegetables and protein, and can be easily customized to suit any taste.

Making them at home allows me to control the ingredients, adjust the seasoning, and create a batch that is perfect for my family or gatherings. The air fryer produces a consistent, golden exterior that satisfies the craving for something crunchy while keeping the cooking process simple and mess-free.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Air Fryer Egg Rolls are a must-try because they combine convenience, flavor, and healthier cooking. They are perfect for anyone who loves the taste of traditional egg rolls but wants a lighter, easier version.

The air fryer delivers a perfect crunch without deep frying, and the recipe is versatile enough to allow customization with different proteins or vegetables. These egg rolls are great for parties, snacks, or weeknight dinners, making them both practical and delicious.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 8 egg rolls
Course: Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine: Asian / Chinese-American
Calories: Approximately 150–180 calories per egg roll

Ingredients

• 8 egg roll wrappers
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup diced bell peppers
• ½ cup cooked protein (chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for sealing wrappers)
• Cooking spray

Cooking Directions

1. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and ginger in sesame oil for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and cooked protein. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.
3. Add soy sauce and mix until evenly coated. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
4. Lay out an egg roll wrapper with one corner pointing toward you. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the corner closest to you.
5. Fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the edge with cornstarch slurry. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
7. Spray the egg rolls lightly with cooking spray and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
8. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with dipping sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and cooked protein. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes. Add soy sauce and mix well. Let the filling cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble Egg Rolls
Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the corner closest to you. Fold the corner over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the edge with a cornstarch slurry. Repeat for all wrappers.

Step 3: Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Step 4: Cook Egg Rolls
Spray the egg rolls lightly with cooking spray. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through for even crisping.

Step 5: Serve
Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as sweet chili, soy sauce, or duck sauce.

How to Serve

Serve Air Fryer Egg Rolls as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Pair them with dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or hoisin sauce. They are excellent alongside fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodle dishes.

Recipe Tips

Do not overfill the wrappers to prevent breaking during rolling.
Use a cornstarch slurry to seal the edges securely.
Spray lightly with cooking oil to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
Let the filling cool slightly before rolling to prevent tearing the wrappers.

Variations

Vegetable Egg Rolls: Use a combination of cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and bell peppers without meat.
Chicken Egg Rolls: Use shredded cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken.
Pork Egg Rolls: Substitute ground pork or cooked shredded pork for protein.
Shrimp Egg Rolls: Use chopped cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
Cheesy Egg Rolls: Add a small amount of shredded cheese to the filling for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator: Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place uncooked, wrapped egg rolls on a baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen in the air fryer for 12–15 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

Air fryer
Skillet for sautéing filling
Cutting board and knife
Mixing spoon
Small bowl for cornstarch slurry

Conclusion

Air Fryer Egg Rolls are a crispy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to traditional fried egg rolls. They are easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for appetizers, snacks, or side dishes. Using the air fryer reduces oil and mess while producing a golden, crunchy exterior with a moist, delicious filling. With versatile filling options and a variety of dipping sauces, these egg rolls are a must-try for anyone who enjoys fresh, homemade Asian-inspired appetizers that are both convenient and satisfying.