Can I Cook Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer A Crispy Delight Awaits

Yes, you can cook egg rolls in an air fryer for a crispy, golden texture with far less oil than deep frying—achieving that perfect crunch in under 15 minutes. Simply preheat, lightly spray, and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning, and enjoy restaurant-quality results at home.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can! Air fryers cook egg rolls to crispy perfection with less oil.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat your air fryer before adding egg rolls.
• Light oil spray: A quick spray ensures even browning and crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches for optimal air circulation and crispness.
• Flip halfway: Flip egg rolls for evenly cooked, golden-brown results.
• Check internal temp: Ensure egg rolls reach 165°F for food safety.

The Air Fryer Revolution: Why Egg Rolls Deserve a Spot in Your Basket

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a perfectly golden egg roll. The crisp wrapper gives way to a savory filling, and suddenly, you’re transported to your favorite takeout spot, even if you’re standing in your own kitchen. But here’s the thing: traditional deep-frying can be messy, time-consuming, and not exactly waistline-friendly. Enter the air fryer. This little kitchen marvel has taken home cooking by storm, promising crispy, golden results with a fraction of the oil. So, can I cook egg rolls in an air fryer? Spoiler: yes. And not just “yes,” but *yes, and they might even be better than the deep-fried version.*

When I first got my air fryer, I was skeptical. Could it really replicate the deep-fried crunch I craved? After some trial, error, and a few slightly rubbery attempts, I cracked the code. Now, egg rolls are a regular in my rotation. They’re faster, cleaner, and—dare I say—healthier. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, cooking from frozen, or making them fresh, the air fryer delivers. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from prep to plating, so you can enjoy that crispy delight with confidence. Let’s dive in!

How Air Frying Works: The Science Behind the Crunch

Why Air Frying Is a Game-Changer for Crispy Foods

If you’ve ever wondered how an air fryer can make food crispy without drowning it in oil, you’re not alone. The secret lies in rapid air circulation. The air fryer uses a high-powered fan to circulate hot air (usually between 350°F and 400°F) around the food. This process is called convection, and it’s the same principle behind convection ovens—but in a much smaller, more efficient space. The hot air rapidly evaporates moisture from the food’s surface, creating a dry, crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.

For egg rolls, this is a dream come true. Traditional deep frying relies on submerging the rolls in hot oil, which can lead to uneven cooking, greasiness, or even soggy wrappers if the oil temperature drops. With an air fryer, you get consistent heat from all sides, and a light coating of oil (just a spritz or brush of oil) is enough to help the wrapper crisp up beautifully. No more oil splatters, no more waiting for oil to heat—just set the timer and walk away.

Air Frying vs. Deep Frying: A Quick Comparison

Here’s a quick breakdown of why air frying egg rolls is a smarter choice:

• Oil usage: Air frying uses 70-80% less oil than deep frying. A light spray or brush is all you need.
• Cleanup: No messy oil to dispose of. Just wipe the basket with a damp cloth or toss it in the dishwasher.
• Time: Air frying is often faster because you don’t have to heat a large pot of oil.
• Health: Lower fat content means fewer calories—without sacrificing crunch.
• Consistency: The air fryer’s controlled environment reduces the risk of undercooking or burning.

Now, I won’t lie—air frying won’t *exactly* mimic the ultra-greasy, ultra-crispy texture of restaurant-style egg rolls. But for home cooking? It’s darn close, and the trade-off in convenience and cleanliness is worth it.

Can I Cook Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer? The Answer (and How-To)

Yes, You Can—And Here’s How

So, can I cook egg rolls in an air fryer? Absolutely. Whether you’re working with store-bought frozen egg rolls, homemade fresh ones, or leftovers from last night’s takeout, the air fryer handles them all. The key is proper spacing and oil application. Overcrowding the basket leads to steaming instead of crisping, and too little oil means the wrapper won’t get that golden, flaky texture.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for cooking egg rolls in your air fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start.
2. Lightly oil the egg rolls. Use a spray bottle with neutral oil (like avocado or canola) or brush them gently. Don’t drench them—just enough to help them crisp.
3. Arrange them in a single layer with space between each roll. They should never touch. If you have a small basket, cook in batches.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time depends on your air fryer model and whether the rolls are frozen or fresh.
5. Check for crispness. The wrapper should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

After dozens of test runs (and a few “meh” batches), I’ve learned a few tricks:

• Don’t skip the flip. Flipping halfway ensures even browning. Some air fryers have a “shake” reminder—use it!
• Use parchment paper or a silicone liner if your rolls tend to stick. Just make sure it’s safe for high heat.
• For frozen egg rolls: No thawing needed! Add 2-3 minutes to the cook time.
• For homemade egg rolls: Make sure the filling is well-drained. Excess moisture = soggy wrappers.
• Spritz with oil again halfway through for extra crispness, especially if your rolls look dry.

One time, I forgot to flip my egg rolls—and half of them came out pale and soft. Lesson learned! Now, I set a timer for the halfway point. It’s a small step, but it makes all the difference.

Fresh vs. Frozen vs. Leftover: Which Egg Rolls Work Best?

Fresh Egg Rolls: The DIY Advantage

If you’re making egg rolls from scratch, the air fryer is your best friend. Fresh wrappers are delicate and prone to breaking when deep-fried, but the air fryer’s gentle heat helps them crisp without falling apart. Plus, you control the filling—think cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and your choice of protein (ground pork, shrimp, tofu, etc.).

Here’s how I make mine:

• Use spring roll wrappers (the thin, rice paper kind) or egg roll wrappers (thicker, wheat-based).
• Drain the filling thoroughly. I press it in a colander for 10 minutes to remove excess liquid.
• Roll tightly, sealing the edges with a bit of water or egg wash.
• Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping once.

The result? Light, crispy rolls with a filling that’s still juicy. No greasy aftertaste, just pure flavor.

Frozen Egg Rolls: A Convenient Win

Let’s be real—sometimes you need dinner fast. Frozen egg rolls are a lifesaver, and the air fryer cooks them better than the microwave or oven. No need to thaw; just pop them in the basket and cook at 375°F for 12-14 minutes (flip at 7 minutes).

Pro tip: If your frozen rolls are clumped together, gently separate them before cooking. Otherwise, they’ll steam instead of crisp. I’ve made this mistake more times than I’d like to admit!

Reheating Leftovers: No More Soggy Takeout

Got leftover egg rolls from your favorite restaurant? The air fryer brings them back to life. Microwaving makes them rubbery, and the oven takes too long. But the air fryer? It’s magic. Here’s how:

• Preheat to 350°F.
• Spritz the rolls lightly with oil (they’ve lost moisture during storage).
• Cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping once.

I’ve reheated egg rolls from 3 days ago, and they tasted almost as good as fresh. The wrapper was crisp, and the filling was still flavorful. Try that with a microwave!

Air Fryer Settings and Timing: Your Quick-Reference Guide

One of the biggest challenges with air frying is figuring out the right time and temperature. Every model is slightly different, but here’s a general guide to help you nail it:

Type of Egg Roll	Temperature	Time	Notes
Fresh homemade	375°F	10-12 minutes	Flip halfway. Light oil spray recommended.
Frozen (store-bought)	375°F	12-14 minutes	Separate rolls before cooking. Flip at 7 minutes.
Reheated leftovers	350°F	5-6 minutes	Spritz with oil. Flip once.
Extra-crispy (all types)	400°F	8-10 minutes	Watch closely to avoid burning. Flip twice.

A few things to remember:

• Smaller batches = crispier results. If you crowd the basket, the rolls will steam instead of crisp.
• Check your model’s manual. Some air fryers run hotter than others. My old one needed 2-3 minutes less than the recipe suggested.
• Adjust for altitude. If you live in a high-altitude area, you may need to increase cook time slightly.

I keep this table bookmarked on my phone for quick reference. It’s saved me from undercooked rolls more than once!

Beyond the Basics: Creative Twists and Troubleshooting

Flavor Boosters and Customizations

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer is a blank canvas for egg roll experimentation. Here are some of my favorite twists:

• Spicy egg rolls: Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the filling, or brush the cooked rolls with a spicy glaze.
• Veggie overload: Mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or bean sprouts for extra crunch.
• Cheese-stuffed: Tuck a piece of mozzarella or pepper jack inside before rolling.
• Gluten-free: Use rice paper wrappers and gluten-free soy sauce in the filling.
• Sweet and savory: Try a dessert version with apple-cinnamon filling and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

One of my favorite combos? Shrimp and pineapple egg rolls with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce. The air fryer keeps the shrimp tender and the wrapper crispy—it’s a game-changer.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common air fryer egg roll issues—and how to fix them:

• Soggy wrappers: Usually caused by overcrowding or too much moisture in the filling. Fix: Cook in smaller batches and drain the filling well.
• Burnt edges: Your air fryer may run hot. Fix: Lower the temperature by 25°F or check the rolls a minute or two early.
• Uneven cooking: The rolls weren’t flipped. Fix: Set a timer for the halfway point.
• Sticking to the basket: Not enough oil or a dirty basket. Fix: Lightly oil the rolls and clean the basket after every use.
• Dry filling: The rolls cooked too long. Fix: Reduce cook time by 1-2 minutes next time.

I once made egg rolls with a filling that was too wet, and they came out soggy and falling apart. I learned my lesson—now I always drain the filling for at least 10 minutes. It’s a small step, but it makes all the difference.

Final Thoughts: Why Air Fried Egg Rolls Are a Must-Try

So, can I cook egg rolls in an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and not just as a compromise. The air fryer delivers crispy, golden egg rolls with less oil, less mess, and less effort. Whether you’re cooking from fresh, frozen, or leftovers, the results are consistently delicious. No more waiting for oil to heat, no more splatters on your stovetop, and no more guilt about indulging in your favorite takeout dish.

What I love most is the versatility. You can stick to classic flavors or get creative with custom fillings and sauces. The air fryer handles it all with ease. And let’s not forget the cleanup—just a quick wipe or toss in the dishwasher, and you’re done. It’s the kind of convenience that makes you wonder why you ever deep-fried in the first place.

Of course, it’s not *perfect*. If you’re chasing that ultra-greasy, ultra-crispy restaurant-style texture, you might miss the deep-fried version. But for everyday cooking? The air fryer wins. It’s faster, cleaner, and healthier—and honestly, the flavor is just as good. So go ahead, give it a try. Your taste buds (and your kitchen) will thank you. Crispy delight awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook egg rolls in an air fryer without oil?

Yes, you can cook egg rolls in an air fryer with little to no oil. The air fryer’s circulating hot air crisps the wrapper beautifully, though a light spray of oil enhances texture and browning.

How long does it take to cook frozen egg rolls in an air fryer?

Frozen egg rolls typically take 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in an air fryer. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Do air fryer egg rolls get as crispy as deep-fried ones?

Air fryer egg rolls achieve a remarkably similar crispiness to deep-fried versions, with less oil. For extra crunch, lightly brush or spray the rolls with oil before cooking.

What’s the best way to prevent egg rolls from drying out in an air fryer?

To avoid dryness, lightly coat the egg rolls with oil and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches ensures even heat distribution and retains moisture.

Can I cook homemade egg rolls in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Homemade egg rolls cook perfectly in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Ensure they’re tightly wrapped to prevent filling from spilling out.

How do I reheat leftover egg rolls in an air fryer?

Reheat leftover egg rolls in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. This method restores crispiness better than a microwave, making them taste freshly cooked.