Air Fryer Egg Rolls — Crispy, Healthier, and Better Than Takeout

Craving the crunch of egg rolls without deep-frying? These Air Fryer Egg Rolls deliver golden, crispy perfection with less oil, less mess, and maximum flavor. Stuffed with juicy ground pork or chicken, crisp cabbage, shredded carrots, and seasoned with garlic, ginger, and soy, this recipe checks every box — from weeknight dinners to party appetizers.

Thanks to the air fryer, you’ll get that addictive crunch without standing over a hot pan or dealing with oil splatter. It’s everything you love about traditional egg rolls — just lighter and easier.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier than deep-fried — All the crunch with a fraction of the oil.
• Family-friendly — Perfect for picky eaters or make-ahead snacks.
• Quick and easy — Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup.
• Better than takeout — Fresh ingredients, no mystery fillers.
• Versatile — Works with pork, chicken, or vegetarian fillings.

This version stands out because it keeps the egg roll crispy while using air instead of heavy oil. Plus, the seasoning balance gives it that classic takeout flavor — bold, savory, and just a little tangy.

Ingredients Needed

All ingredients are easy to find and can be prepped in advance.

For the Egg Roll Filling

• 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the meat and vegetables.
• 1 lb ground pork or ground chicken – choose your protein base.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – for a punch of flavor.
• 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger – adds warm, aromatic spice.
• 1 medium carrot, shredded – brings color and subtle sweetness.
• 3 scallions, chopped – use both white and green parts.
• 3 cups green cabbage, shredded – for crunch and body.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce – adds umami depth.
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar – gives the mix a slight tang.

For Wrapping and Cooking

• 12 egg roll wrappers – store-bought, thawed if frozen.
• Oil (olive or avocado oil) – for brushing or spraying before air frying.

For Serving

• Duck sauce – classic sweet-savory dip.
• Plum sauce – deeper fruit-based option.
• Soy sauce – adds salt and pairs with the filling.

How to Make Air Fryer Egg Rolls

This recipe involves three key parts: cooking the filling, wrapping the egg rolls, and air frying them to golden crispness. Here’s how to do it right:

Step 1 – Cook the Filling

1. Sauté the protein: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork or chicken and use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.
2. Add aromatics and vegetables: Toss in the garlic, ginger, carrot, scallions, and shredded cabbage. Stir frequently and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the cabbage softens and the mixture reduces.
3. Season: Stir in the soy sauce and rice wine vinegar. Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Why cool the filling? Hot filling can steam the wrappers and make them soggy or tear during wrapping.

Step 2 – Assemble the Egg Rolls

1. Prepare the wrapper: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface in a diamond orientation — one corner pointing toward you.
2. Add filling: Spoon about ¼ cup of the cooled filling into the center of the wrapper.
3. Seal and roll: Dip your fingers in water and run along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly into a cylinder. Press the final edge to seal.
4. Repeat: Continue filling and rolling until all wrappers are used. You should yield about 12 egg rolls.

Step 3 – Air Fry the Egg Rolls

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. This helps start the crisping process immediately once the rolls are inside.
2. Arrange in basket: Place the egg rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch. This ensures hot air can circulate and crisp all sides evenly.
3. Brush or spray with oil: Lightly coat each roll with oil using a pastry brush or cooking spray. This helps them crisp and turn golden.
4. Cook: Air fry for 6–7 minutes, flip each roll, brush or spray the other side, and cook for another 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
5. Serve hot: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Visual cue: Rolls should be golden and blistered on the outside, and piping hot inside.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Ideas

• Pair with sweet and sour dipping sauce or a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo.
• Add to a platter with potstickers and scallion pancakes for a party spread.
• Serve as a side dish with stir-fried noodles or fried rice.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to revive crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, rolled egg rolls in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Air fry directly from frozen — just add 3–4 minutes to the cook time.

Helpful Notes

• Vegetarian option: Use mushrooms or tofu in place of meat.
• Low-sodium version: Choose low-sodium soy sauce and watch additional salt.
• Extra crispy? Brush with oil after flipping as well — this doubles the crunch.
• Cabbage alternatives: Use pre-shredded slaw mix for ease and texture variety.
• Wrapper tips: Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Egg Rolls are a lighter, crispier, and cleaner version of your favorite takeout appetizer. With simple ingredients and big flavor, they’re an easy win for weeknight dinners, party snacks, or meal prep staples.

Tried this recipe? ⭐ Leave a comment and star rating below — I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you switch up the filling or try a new dipping sauce?

And don’t forget — pin this recipe on Pinterest, or share it on Facebook to spread the crispy joy with friends!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Air Fryer Egg Rolls vegetarian?

Yes! Just skip the meat and use sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a combo of bean sprouts and shredded carrots for a satisfying vegetarian version.

How do I prevent the wrappers from tearing?

Be gentle with rolling, and don’t overstuff. If wrappers seem dry, cover the stack with a slightly damp paper towel while assembling to keep them pliable.

Can I freeze egg rolls before air frying?

Absolutely. Place rolled, uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Air fry straight from frozen at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.

Why aren’t my egg rolls crispy?

Crispness depends on oil coating and space in the basket. Make sure each roll is lightly oiled and not overcrowded in the fryer. Flip and spray again halfway through cooking for even browning.

What dipping sauces go best with these egg rolls?

Classic choices include duck sauce, plum sauce, or soy sauce. For a twist, try spicy garlic chili oil, hoisin, or a homemade ginger-scallion dip.