Can You Make Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer Discover the Crispy Truth

Yes, you can make egg rolls in an air fryer—and they come out perfectly crispy with far less oil than traditional frying. The air fryer circulates hot air to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing texture. Just a light spray of oil and 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) delivers delicious results every time.

Key Takeaways

• Air fryers deliver crispy egg rolls with less oil than deep frying.
• Preheat your air fryer for evenly golden, crunchy results every time.
• Lightly spray egg rolls with oil to enhance crispiness without excess fat.
• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper air circulation.
• Flip egg rolls halfway through for uniformly crispy texture on all sides.
• Use frozen egg rolls directly—no thawing needed for quick, easy prep.
• Check internal temperature (165°F) to confirm safe, fully cooked filling.

The Crispy Truth About Making Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer

Let’s be real—egg rolls are one of those foods that feel like a treat, whether you’re enjoying them at a Chinese takeout spot or trying your hand at homemade versions. The golden, crispy shell that shatters with every bite? Pure magic. But here’s the thing: traditional deep-frying can feel like a hassle. It’s messy, time-consuming, and leaves your kitchen smelling like a restaurant kitchen. Plus, let’s not forget the guilt of all that oil. So, what if there was a way to get that same crunch with less mess, less oil, and less stress? Enter the air fryer.

If you’ve ever stood over a pot of hot oil, wondering if there’s an easier way, you’re not alone. The air fryer has become a kitchen staple for a reason—it promises crispy, golden results with minimal effort. But can it truly deliver on the beloved egg roll? That’s the question we’re diving into today. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this post will walk you through everything you need to know about making egg rolls in an air fryer. From texture to flavor, cooking time, and even tips for perfect results, we’ll cover it all. So, let’s get to the crispy truth.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Egg Rolls

How Air Fryers Work Their Magic

Before we jump into the recipe specifics, let’s talk about why the air fryer is such a great fit for egg rolls. Unlike deep-frying, which submerges food in hot oil, air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to crisp up food. Think of it like a mini convection oven with superpowers. The hot air moves around the food at high speed, creating a Maillard reaction (that’s the science behind browning and crispiness) without needing a ton of oil.

The result? A crispy exterior and tender interior—exactly what we want for egg rolls. And because you’re not dealing with a vat of hot oil, cleanup is a breeze. No more scrubbing greasy pans or dealing with lingering smells. Just a quick wipe-down, and you’re done.

Healthier, But Still Delicious

One of the biggest perks of using an air fryer is the health factor. Traditional deep-fried egg rolls can pack in 200–300 calories each, thanks to all that oil. But with an air fryer, you can cut that down significantly. Most recipes call for just a light spray or brush of oil—about 1–2 teaspoons per egg roll. That means you’re getting the same crunch with a fraction of the fat and calories.

Now, let’s be clear: this isn’t a “health food” makeover. Egg rolls are still a treat. But if you’re watching your oil intake or just want a lighter option, the air fryer delivers. And the best part? You won’t sacrifice flavor. The filling stays juicy, and the wrapper gets that satisfying crunch we all love.

Perfect for Busy Schedules

Another win for the air fryer? Speed. Deep-frying requires heating a pot of oil, which can take 10–15 minutes. Then you’ve got to cook the egg rolls in batches, which adds more time. With an air fryer, you’re looking at a 10–12 minute preheat (if needed) and 10–15 minutes of cooking time. Plus, you can fit multiple egg rolls at once, depending on your air fryer size.

Here’s a real-life example: Last week, I had friends over for a movie night. I wanted to serve egg rolls as a snack, but I was short on time. I prepped the filling earlier, rolled them up, and popped them in the air fryer. From start to finish, it took about 25 minutes—and my guests couldn’t believe they weren’t deep-fried. Win-win.

The Science of Crisp: How to Get Egg Rolls Just Right

The Role of Oil and Moisture

Here’s where things get interesting. The key to crispy air-fried egg rolls lies in two things: oil and moisture. Too much moisture, and the wrapper turns soggy. Too little oil, and it won’t crisp up. The sweet spot? A light, even coating of oil and a dry filling.

Pro tip: After rolling your egg rolls, give them a quick pat with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture from the filling. Then, spray or brush them with oil. I like to use a mix of sesame oil (for flavor) and neutral oil (like avocado or canola) for even coverage. This combo gives you that authentic taste without overpowering the other ingredients.

Temperature and Timing Matter

Air fryers vary in power, so temperature and timing aren’t one-size-fits-all. But here’s a general guideline: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Why flip? It ensures even browning on both sides. If your air fryer has a basket, you can also shake it gently halfway through to redistribute the rolls.

For extra crispiness, some people recommend a 1-minute broil at the end (if your air fryer has that setting). I’ve tried it, and it works—but be careful! It can burn the edges if you’re not watching. Stick to the basic 10–12 minutes unless you’re confident with your air fryer’s settings.

Filling Tips for the Perfect Texture

The filling is just as important as the wrapper. For a juicy, flavorful filling without excess moisture, here’s what works:

• Chop veggies finely: The smaller the pieces, the less likely they are to release water during cooking.
• Squeeze out excess liquid: If you’re using cabbage, carrots, or mushrooms, sauté them first, then squeeze out the water with a clean kitchen towel.
• Use lean protein: Ground pork, chicken, or tofu work well. Avoid fatty meats—they can make the filling greasy.
• Season well: Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of sugar balance the flavors. Just don’t overdo the soy sauce, or it’ll make the filling too salty (and wet).

One of my favorite tricks? Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling. It helps bind the ingredients and absorb excess moisture, so your egg rolls stay crisp.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air-Fried Egg Rolls

Prep the Filling

Start by making your filling. For classic egg rolls, I like:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 pound ground pork (or chicken/tofu)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for binding)

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil, then cook the pork (or tofu) until browned. Add the garlic, ginger, and veggies, and cook until tender. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook for another minute, then transfer to a bowl and let it cool. Pro tip: Chill the filling for 15 minutes—this makes it easier to roll and reduces moisture.

Roll ’Em Up

Now for the fun part: rolling. You’ll need egg roll wrappers (usually found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store). Here’s how to do it:

1. Lay a wrapper in a diamond shape (point facing you).
2. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center.
3. Lift the bottom corner over the filling, tucking it in slightly.
4. Fold the left and right corners in, like an envelope.
5. Roll up toward the top corner, sealing the edge with a little water or egg wash.

Don’t overfill! Too much filling makes the wrapper hard to seal and can cause bursting during cooking. I usually make a few test rolls to get the right amount.

Air Fry Like a Pro

Once your egg rolls are rolled, it’s time to cook. Here’s the process:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes (optional, but helps with even cooking).
2. Lightly spray or brush the egg rolls with oil. I use a mix of 1 tsp sesame oil and 1 tsp canola oil per 4 egg rolls.
3. Place them in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. Don’t overcrowd—this is crucial for crispiness.
4. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip (or shake the basket) and cook for another 5–6 minutes.
5. Check for golden brown color and crisp edges. If needed, add 1–2 more minutes.

Let them cool for 1–2 minutes before serving. They’ll be hot inside, so be careful!

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake I see. When the basket is too full, hot air can’t circulate properly, so the egg rolls steam instead of crisp. The result? Soggy, unevenly cooked rolls. The fix? Cook in batches. I usually do 4–6 at a time in my 5.8-quart air fryer. It might take a little longer, but the texture is worth it.

Skipping the Oil

I get it—you want to keep things light. But without oil, the wrapper won’t crisp up. It’ll turn out pale and chewy, not golden and crunchy. The trick is using just enough oil to promote browning without adding too much fat. A light spray or brush is all you need.

Not Drying the Filling

Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. If your filling is too wet, the wrapper will absorb it and turn soggy. To avoid this:

• Squeeze out veggies after sautéing.
• Chill the filling before rolling.
• Pat the rolled egg rolls with a paper towel.

One time, I skipped this step and ended up with limp egg rolls. Lesson learned!

Forgetting to Flip

Air fryers cook from the top down, so if you don’t flip or shake the basket, one side will be darker than the other. Flipping halfway ensures even browning. If your air fryer has a “shake reminder” feature, use it!

Beyond the Basics: Variations and Pairings

Flavor Twists

Once you’ve mastered the classic version, get creative with fillings. Here are a few ideas:

• Thai-inspired: Add lemongrass, cilantro, and a splash of fish sauce. Top with crushed peanuts after frying.
• Vegetarian: Use tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and water chestnuts for a meat-free option.
• Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Cheesy: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or pepper jack (just don’t overdo it—cheese can make the filling greasy).

I once made a “breakfast egg roll” with scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced ham. It was a hit at brunch!

Dipping Sauces and Sides

No egg roll is complete without a great dipping sauce. Here are a few favorites:

• Sweet and sour: Mix equal parts ketchup and pineapple juice, with a splash of rice vinegar.
• Spicy mayo: Combine mayo, sriracha, and a little lime juice.
• Hoisin sauce: Add a drizzle of hoisin and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

For sides, keep it simple. A light cucumber salad or steamed edamame pairs perfectly. Or, serve them as part of a larger Asian-inspired spread with spring rolls, dumplings, and fried rice.

Data Table: Air Fryer vs. Deep-Fried Egg Rolls

Factor	Air-Fried Egg Rolls	Deep-Fried Egg Rolls
Oil Used	1–2 tsp per roll	1–2 cups for frying
Cooking Time	10–12 minutes	15–20 minutes (including oil heating)
Calories per Roll	~120–150	~200–300
Cleanup	Easy (wipe basket)	Messy (oil disposal, greasy pans)
Crispiness	Golden, shatter-crisp	Deep golden, very crispy
Best For	Quick, lighter option	Traditional, indulgent treat

Final Thoughts: The Crispy Truth

So, can you make egg rolls in an air fryer? Absolutely. And in my experience, the results are pretty darn close to deep-fried—without the mess, guilt, or long cooking time. The air fryer delivers a golden, crispy shell with a juicy, flavorful filling, all in about 25 minutes from start to finish.

Is it exactly the same as deep-fried? Not quite. Deep-fried egg rolls have a slightly deeper color and a more uniform crunch. But the air fryer comes remarkably close—and with way more convenience. Plus, it’s a great option for anyone who wants to cut back on oil or just doesn’t have the space (or patience) for deep-frying.

The key to success? Pay attention to the details: dry filling, light oil, proper spacing, and flipping halfway. Once you nail those, you’ll be rewarded with egg rolls that are crispy, delicious, and ready to impress.

At the end of the day, the air fryer isn’t a replacement for every cooking method—but for egg rolls, it’s a game-changer. So go ahead, give it a try. Your taste buds (and your kitchen) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make egg rolls in an air fryer without sacrificing crispiness?

Yes, you can make egg rolls in an air fryer and achieve a crispy, golden exterior without deep frying. The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures even browning while using minimal oil.

How do you cook frozen egg rolls in an air fryer?

For frozen egg rolls, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place them in a single layer, and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. This method delivers a crunchy texture without defrosting first.

What’s the best way to keep air-fried egg rolls from drying out?

Lightly spray the egg rolls with oil before air frying and avoid overcooking. The oil helps maintain moisture while the air fryer creates a crispy shell—perfect for making egg rolls in an air fryer.

Can you make homemade egg rolls in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Homemade egg rolls cook beautifully in an air fryer. Assemble them as usual, brush or spray with oil, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until crisp and cooked through.

Do air fryer egg rolls taste as good as deep-fried ones?

Air fryer egg rolls come remarkably close to deep-fried versions, with a satisfying crunch and juicy filling. The key is proper oil distribution and cooking time to mimic the deep-fried texture.

How do you prevent egg rolls from sticking in the air fryer?

Use parchment paper liners or lightly grease the air fryer basket. Spacing the egg rolls apart also prevents sticking and ensures even airflow for consistent results.