Air Fryer Egg Roll

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a quick snack, or a light meal, this recipe is a game-changer. The filling is completely customizable, and you can even make a big batch to freeze for later. Get ready to ditch the takeout menu and create delicious, healthier egg rolls right in your own kitchen!

Filled with shredded cabbage, carrots, and aromatic ginger and garlic, they’re seasoned with soy sauce and toasted sesame oil for a deliciously savory bite.

Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Here’s a great video that shows the process of making air fryer egg rolls.

Why You’ll Love Making It

• Healthier Alternative: By using the air fryer, you achieve that irresistible crispy texture with just a light spritz of oil, cutting down significantly on the fat and calories found in traditional deep-fried egg rolls.
• Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have these delicious egg rolls ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Perfectly Crispy: The circulating hot air of the air fryer ensures the wrappers get evenly cooked and delightfully crunchy every single time, without any sogginess.
• Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base for your creativity. Easily swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand, or add a protein like shredded chicken, ground pork, or crumbled tofu to make them more substantial.
• Great for Meal Prep: Assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the freezer. They cook perfectly from frozen, giving you a fantastic appetizer or snack on demand.

Ingredients

• 6 egg roll wrappers: These are typically found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, often near the produce or tofu.
• 1 tsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 3 cups shredded green cabbage: This forms the bulk of the filling, providing a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
• 1/4 cup shredded carrot: Adds a touch of sweetness, color, and texture.
• 2 green onions, sliced: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic, savory depth. For best results, use fresh garlic.
• 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Gives the filling a warm, zesty spice.
• 1 tsp reduced-sodium soy sauce: For that essential savory, umami flavor.
• 1.5 tsp toasted sesame oil: A key ingredient that provides a rich, nutty aroma and taste.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: For a hint of spice.
• Cooking spray or additional olive oil: For coating the egg rolls before air frying to ensure they get golden and crispy.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain a slight crunch. You don’t want them to become mushy. Stir in the sliced green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and black pepper.

Important: Transfer the filling to a bowl and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. A hot filling will make the egg roll wrappers soggy and can cause them to tear.

Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface in a diamond orientation (with one corner pointing towards you). Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled vegetable mixture onto the lower third of the wrapper. Don’t overfill, as this will make rolling difficult and can cause the wrapper to burst during cooking. Fold the bottom corner up and over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Fold the left and right corners in towards the center, creating an envelope shape. Roll the egg roll up tightly towards the top corner. Using your finger, lightly moisten the edges of the top corner with a small dab of water and press to seal it firmly. Repeat this process for the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 3: Air Fry the Egg Rolls

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer inside the basket. Be sure to leave some space between them for air to circulate, which is the key to even crisping. Cook in batches if necessary. Lightly spray or brush the tops of the egg rolls with oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping them over halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Store

Carefully remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving, as the filling will be very hot. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip Cooling the Filling: This is the most crucial step to prevent a soggy egg roll. The filling should be at room temperature before you start rolling.
• Keep Wrappers Covered: Egg roll wrappers can dry out quickly. Keep the stack covered with a damp paper towel while you are assembling them one by one.
• Roll Tightly: A tight roll ensures the filling stays secure and helps the egg roll become extra crispy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, cook the egg rolls in a single layer without them touching. This allows the hot air to cook them from all sides.
• Check for Doneness: Every air fryer is different. Keep an eye on your egg rolls during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t burn.

FAQs

Can I freeze these egg rolls before cooking?
Absolutely! This is a great way to meal prep. Place the assembled, uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding about 2-4 extra minutes to the air frying time.

What dipping sauces go well with these egg rolls?
Sweet chili sauce is a classic choice. Other great options include a simple soy sauce mixed with a dash of rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, duck sauce, or a spicy peanut sauce.

Why did my egg rolls turn out soggy?
Sogginess is usually caused by two things: the filling was too wet or it was still warm when you assembled the egg rolls. Ensure your vegetables are only lightly sautéed and drain any excess liquid before rolling. Most importantly, always let the filling cool completely.

Can I make these in a conventional oven?
Yes. To bake them in the oven, place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush or spray them with oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. They may not be quite as crispy as the air-fried version but will still be delicious.