Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Air fryer egg rolls are a healthier version of traditional deep-fried egg rolls, offering a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the filling moist and flavorful. You can customize the filling with vegetables, chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu. Using an air fryer significantly reduces oil usage while maintaining a satisfying crunch.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6 egg rolls
Ingredients
For the Filling
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (any color)
1/2 cup cooked chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu, diced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, chopped (optional)
For the Egg Rolls
6–8 egg roll wrappers
1–2 tablespoons water (for sealing)
Cooking spray or a small amount of oil
Optional Dipping Sauce
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or hoisin sauce
Equipment
Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Skillet (if cooking meat)
Spatula or spoon
Brush for water
Tongs
Plate or tray
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
If using raw meat, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess liquid.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked meat (if using) with shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and chopped green onions. Mix well to combine.
Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the egg rolls.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with a corner pointing toward you (diamond shape).
Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the corner closest to you.
Fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the left and right sides. Roll the wrapper tightly toward the far corner.
Moisten the far corner with a little water to seal the egg roll. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 4: Arrange the Egg Rolls
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if needed.
Step 5: Air Fry the Egg Rolls
Spray the tops of the egg rolls lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil to enhance crispiness.
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The egg rolls should be golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce such as sweet chili, soy sauce, or hoisin sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Do not overfill the wrappers to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
- Keep the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even crisping.
- Lightly spraying or brushing with oil gives a golden, crunchy exterior.
- If using frozen egg rolls, air fry directly from frozen and increase cooking time by 2–3 minutes.
Storage Instructions
Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing Instructions
Uncooked, assembled egg rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month. Freeze on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Air fry directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Variations
- Customize fillings with pork, chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, bean sprouts, zucchini, or spinach for variety.
- Season fillings with sriracha, hoisin sauce, or oyster sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main meal with rice or salad.
Air fryer egg rolls are a quick, versatile, and healthier alternative to traditional fried egg rolls while still providing a crunchy, flavorful bite.
