Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls: The Ultimate Recipe and Guide
Enjoy golden, restaurant-quality crunch and savory textures without deep frying or extra cleanup.
Nothing quite compares to the satisfying crunch and savory flavors of a fresh egg roll. While traditional recipes require deep frying, the air fryer makes it easy to create egg rolls that are just as crisp, but with less oil and mess. Whether you’re an appetizer aficionado, a fan of snackable meals, or searching for new uses for your air fryer, this guide covers everything you need to know to make egg rolls at home with fantastic results.
Why Try Air Fryer Egg Rolls?
- Healthier than deep-fried: Air frying requires significantly less oil, reducing calories and grease without sacrificing crunch or texture.
- Easy cleanup: No large vats of hot oil to dispose of—just a quick basket wash when you’re done.
- Consistent results: It’s easier to get that perfectly even golden color, thanks to the circulated hot air.
- Make ahead: Prep the filling or assemble rolls in advance for convenient meals or snacks.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 pound ground pork (can substitute with ground chicken or turkey for variation)
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (a blend of shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/2 cup matchstick-cut carrots (adds extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (or use 2 teaspoons ginger paste for convenience)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 green onions, sliced thin
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon Chinese 5-spice seasoning
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing, helps with browning and crunch)
- Sweet chili sauce, duck sauce, or hot mustard for dipping
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Coleslaw mix: Using pre-shredded coleslaw mix saves prep time and ensures a consistent filling texture.
- Matchstick carrots: These stay a little crunchier than grated carrots, offering great bite.
- Ground pork: Traditional, but ground chicken, ground turkey, or even chopped mushrooms can be used for different flavors or to make the dish vegetarian.
- Chinese 5-spice: This complex blend adds depth. If unavailable, try a mix of cinnamon, star anise, and cloves in a pinch.
- Wrappers: Egg roll wrappers are available near tofu or produce in most supermarkets. Don’t substitute with spring roll or rice wrappers—they won’t crisp up the same way.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Filling
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground pork. Break it up with a spatula and cook until crumbled and thoroughly cooked (about 4 minutes).
- Add in coleslaw mix, carrots, ginger, and garlic. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the cabbage softens and wilts.
- Remove skillet from heat. Stir in sliced green onions, soy sauce, rice vinegar, pepper, salt, and Chinese 5-spice seasoning. Mix well.
- Transfer the pork mixture to a plate and allow it to cool slightly before assembling the rolls.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a dry work surface with a point facing toward you (it should look diamond-shaped).
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of pork filling onto the center of the wrapper.
- Dip your finger in water and dampen all four edges of the wrapper.
- Fold the left and right points toward the center over the filling.
- Fold the bottom point up over the center.
- Roll tightly upward toward the remaining point, forming a tidy cylinder. Press the seams to seal.
- Place the finished roll on a plate and cover with a dry towel to prevent drying out. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Air Frying the Egg Rolls
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (if your model requires preheating).
- Spray the air fryer basket generously with nonstick cooking spray.
- Brush the tops of the egg rolls with olive oil (this step helps achieve a deep golden crust).
- Work in batches: Place 4 egg rolls at a time in the basket, leaving space between each for proper air circulation.
- Cook for 7 minutes, then flip each roll and brush with a little more oil if desired. Cook another 2 minutes, for a total of 9-10 minutes, until crisp and golden.
- Repeat with remaining egg rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer egg rolls are perfect as a snack, party appetizer, or even as a crunchy addition to an Asian-inspired meal. Serve hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauces. Recommended options include:
- Sweet chili sauce
- Duck sauce
- Hot mustard
- Soy sauce or tamari
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
- Advance prep: The pork filling can be made up to 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Freezing assembled egg rolls: Lay uncooked, filled egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag with as much air removed as possible. Egg rolls will keep for up to 3 months.
- Cooking from frozen: No need to thaw. Place frozen egg rolls straight into the air fryer and add 2-3 extra minutes to the regular cooking time.
What others are reading
Key Tips for Success
- Leave room in the basket: For the crispiest rolls, make sure there’s space between each egg roll so air can circulate all the way around.
- Seal the rolls well: Prevent bursting during cooking by making sure the edges of each wrapper are sealed securely with water.
- Oil is essential: Brushing (not drenching) with oil gives the wrappers color and crunch, preventing a pale, dry result.
- Work in batches: Most air fryers fit only 4 rolls at a time. Trying to crowd more in will lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
Common Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the pork and double up on mushrooms, tofu, or extra veggies.
- Chicken or turkey: Use ground poultry for a lighter version with a similar flavor profile.
- Spicy: Add a splash of chili sauce or finely chopped hot peppers to the filling for a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do you cook egg rolls in the air fryer?
A typical batch cooks in 9-10 minutes at 360°F. Time can vary depending on the air fryer model, roll size, and how full your basket is. Always check for golden color and crispness.
Can I cook frozen egg rolls in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen egg rolls directly from the freezer. Add 2-3 minutes to the normal cook time, and do not thaw them first.
Do I need to flip the egg rolls?
Yes, flipping halfway and brushing with additional oil ensures even crisping and browning on all sides.
Can I use different meats?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or beef all work well. You can also opt for plant-based ground meat products.
What if I don’t have Chinese 5-spice?
Use a pinch each of cinnamon, star anise, and cloves—or simply leave it out for a milder but still delicious flavor.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes
- Air frying: Results in significantly less fat and calories than traditional deep frying.
- Portions: Each egg roll has protein, fiber, and vegetables, making it a more balanced snack or meal option.
- Customization: Substitute gluten-free wrappers and tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Table: Air Fryer vs. Deep Fried Egg Rolls
| Aspect | Air Fryer Egg Rolls | Traditional Fried Egg Rolls |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Usage | 1-2 tbsp brushed on rolls | 2-3 cups for deep frying |
| Texture | Very crisp, slightly lighter | Extra crunchy, rich |
| Prep/Clean Up | Minimal, less mess | Messy, oil disposal required |
| Calories | Lower per serving | Higher per serving |
| Time | 10 minutes/batch | 10 minutes/batch (plus oil heating time) |
Creative Serving Ideas
- Pair with a homemade stir-fry or noodle bowl for an easy, satisfying dinner.
- Offer as a hands-on party snack with a variety of dipping sauces.
- Slice into bite-sized pieces and skewer as part of an appetizer platter.
- Reheat leftovers briefly in the air fryer (2–3 minutes at 350°F) to revive crunch.
More Air Fryer Egg Roll Inspiration
- Try southwestern fillings with seasoned chicken, beans, and corn for a Tex-Mex spin.
- Make breakfast egg rolls with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.
- Experiment with sweet fillings like diced apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar for dessert egg rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What kind of dipping sauce goes best with these egg rolls?
A: Sweet chili sauce, duck sauce, or hot mustard work best. Soy sauce and Sriracha are also popular choices.
Q: Can I freeze the egg rolls after air frying?
A: It’s best to freeze egg rolls while they are still uncooked, but you can freeze cooked egg rolls and reheat them in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350°F for best texture.
Q: How do I prevent egg rolls from getting soggy?
A: Let the filling cool before wrapping and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket so that hot air can circulate and crisp the rolls on all sides.
Further Tips for Home Cooks
- Always work with fresh egg roll wrappers; dried-out wrappers crack and don’t seal properly.
- If making a large batch, keep rolled, uncooked egg rolls under a dry towel to prevent them from drying out before air frying.
- Feel free to double the filling batch—it keeps well and means quick prep for future meals.
Summary
Making egg rolls at home is incredibly easy and rewarding with the air fryer—no more deep frying, but all the crunch you crave. With customizable fillings, make-ahead options, and endless serving ideas, air fryer egg rolls belong in every home cook’s repertoire. Enjoy the satisfying snap and savory flavor in every bite!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a38526856/air-fryer-egg-rolls-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a46538332/reuben-egg-rolls-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yIFCqumMUg
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a63801311/egg-roll-in-a-bowl-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g63395883/air-fryer-recipes/
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