Can I Make Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer A Crispy Delight

Yes, you can make egg rolls in the air fryer—achieving a perfectly crispy, golden shell with less oil and effort than traditional frying. The air fryer circulates hot air to deliver that satisfying crunch while keeping the filling juicy and flavorful. With minimal prep and quick cooking times, air-fried egg rolls are a healthier, mess-free twist on the classic appetizer.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can! Air fryers make crispy egg rolls without deep frying.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat the air fryer before cooking.
• Light oil spray: A quick spray ensures golden, even browning.
• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between rolls for optimal air circulation.
• Cook in batches: Maintain texture by frying 6–8 rolls at once.
• Shake halfway: Flip rolls mid-cook for uniform crispness.

The Crispy Question: Can I Make Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer?

Let’s be real—egg rolls are one of those foods we all crave but often skip because of the guilt that follows. Deep-fried to golden perfection, they’re crispy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. But what if I told you there’s a way to enjoy that same crunchy goodness with less oil, fewer calories, and zero mess? Enter the air fryer, the kitchen gadget that’s been quietly revolutionizing how we cook our favorite fried foods. So, can I make egg rolls in the air fryer? The short answer is a resounding yes, and the long answer is even more delicious.

I remember the first time I tried air frying egg rolls. I was skeptical—how could a machine that circulates hot air possibly mimic the deep-fried crunch I loved? But after one bite, I was hooked. The exterior was crisp, the filling was juicy, and there was no greasy aftertaste. It felt like a culinary cheat code. Whether you’re a health-conscious foodie, a busy parent, or just someone who hates scrubbing oil off the stovetop, air fryer egg rolls might just become your new go-to. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make them perfectly, from prep to plating.

Why Air Frying Egg Rolls Is a Game-Changer

Let’s start with the obvious: deep frying is messy, time-consuming, and not exactly heart-healthy. But air frying? It’s like giving your egg rolls a guilt-free makeover. Here’s why it’s worth switching:

Healthier Without Sacrificing Flavor

Traditional deep-fried egg rolls can soak up 15–20 grams of fat per serving. Air frying slashes that to just 1–3 grams, depending on how much oil you use. You still get that satisfying crunch because the air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation creates a Maillard reaction (the same process that browns and crisps deep-fried foods). Pro tip: Spritz the egg rolls with a light mist of oil—just 1–2 teaspoons per batch—for extra crispiness without the greasiness.

Speed and Convenience

No waiting for oil to heat or dealing with splatters. Air fryers preheat in 2–3 minutes and cook egg rolls in 8–12 minutes, compared to 15–20 minutes for deep frying. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just wipe down the basket or toss it in the dishwasher. I’ve even made egg rolls on weeknights when I’m too tired to cook but craving something special.

Versatility for All Diets

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just watching your calories, the air fryer adapts. Use rice paper wraps for gluten-free egg rolls or swap cabbage for kale in the filling. The air fryer doesn’t discriminate—it crisps up whatever you put inside those wrappers.

Real talk: I once tried making vegan egg rolls with tofu and mushrooms. My meat-loving partner took one bite and said, “I can’t believe these aren’t deep-fried!” That’s the power of the air fryer.

How to Make Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer: Step-by-Step

Ready to try it yourself? Here’s a foolproof method that works for homemade or store-bought egg rolls.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Egg roll wrappers (8–12)
• Filling: 2 cups shredded cabbage, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 cup bean sprouts, 1/2 cup diced mushrooms, 1/2 cup chopped green onions, 1/2 cup cooked protein (shrimp, chicken, tofu, or beef)
• Seasonings: 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• Oil spray or 1–2 tsp oil (avocado, canola, or olive)
• Dipping sauce (soy, sweet chili, or peanut sauce)

Preparing the Filling

1. Sauté the veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and green onions for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add protein and cook through.
2. Season: Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Let cool slightly—hot filling can make wrappers soggy.
3. Assemble: Lay a wrapper on a clean surface, add 2–3 tbsp filling near the bottom corner, fold the corner over, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal with a dab of water. Pro tip: Don’t overfill, or the wrapper might burst!

Air Frying to Perfection

1. Preheat: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange: Place egg rolls in the basket, seam-side down. Leave space between them for air circulation.
3. Oil: Lightly spray or brush with oil—this is key for crispiness.
4. Cook: Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flip halfway, and cook 4–5 more minutes until golden.

Watch this: If your air fryer has a window, peek at the 8-minute mark. You’re aiming for a deep golden brown, not pale or burnt.

Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls Every Time

Even with the right recipe, egg rolls can turn out soggy or uneven. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t Skip the Oil (But Use It Sparingly)

Air fryers need a little fat to crisp up food. Without oil, egg rolls will be dry and tough. But too much oil? They’ll steam instead of crisp. My rule: 1 tsp oil per 4 egg rolls. Use a spray bottle for even coverage.

Space Them Out

Crowding the basket traps steam, leading to limp egg rolls. Cook in batches if needed. I once tried to cram 12 rolls into my 5-quart air fryer—they stuck together and cooked unevenly. Lesson learned!

Flip Halfway

Air fryers circulate heat from the top, so flipping ensures even browning. Set a timer for 4 minutes to flip, then cook 4–5 more minutes.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Just like an oven, a preheated air fryer starts cooking immediately. Skipping this step adds 2–3 minutes to your cook time and can make the exterior less crispy.

Freeze for Later

Make a big batch and freeze unbaked egg rolls on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen—add 2–3 minutes to the cook time. No thawing needed!

Creative Variations: Beyond the Classic Egg Roll

Why stick to tradition? The air fryer is a canvas for creativity. Here are some fun twists:

Spicy Korean-Style Egg Rolls

• Filling: Kimchi, gochujang-glazed tofu, and scallions.
• Dipping sauce: Spicy mayo (mix sriracha and mayo).

Why it works: Kimchi’s tangy heat pairs perfectly with the air fryer’s crispiness. I served these at a party, and they vanished in minutes.

Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls

• Filling: Cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, and bacon bits.
• Tip: Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Thai-Inspired Peanut Egg Rolls

• Filling: Cabbage, carrots, rice noodles, and crushed peanuts.
• Dipping sauce: Peanut sauce (peanut butter, soy, lime, and honey).

Dessert Egg Rolls

• Filling: Cinnamon-sugar apples or Nutella and banana.
• Serve with: Vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel.

Pro tip: For sweet rolls, cook at 350°F (175°C) to prevent burning the filling.

Air Fryer vs. Deep Fryer: The Showdown

Let’s settle this once and for all. Which method reigns supreme?

Factor	Air Fryer	Deep Fryer
Fat Content	1–3g per serving	15–20g per serving
Cook Time	8–12 minutes	15–20 minutes
Cleanup	Easy (dishwasher-safe basket)	Hard (oil disposal, greasy stovetop)
Crispiness	Very crispy (with oil spray)	Extremely crispy
Safety	Low risk (no hot oil)	High risk (oil burns, splatters)

The air fryer wins on health, convenience, and safety. Deep frying has a slight edge in crispiness, but the difference is minimal—especially if you spritz your rolls with oil. For most people, the air fryer’s trade-offs are worth it.

Troubleshooting: When Egg Rolls Don’t Turn Out Right

Even the best recipes can go sideways. Here’s how to fix common issues:

Soggy Exterior

• Cause: Too much moisture in the filling or overcrowding.
• Fix: Sauté veggies longer to remove excess water. Leave space between rolls.

Burnt Spots

• Cause: Air fryer temperature too high or not flipping.
• Fix: Cook at 375°F max. Flip halfway and check at 8 minutes.

Wrappers Unraveling

• Cause: Poor sealing or overfilling.
• Fix: Seal edges with water. Use less filling and roll tightly.

Dry or Tough Texture

• Cause: No oil or overcooking.
• Fix: Always use a light oil spray. Don’t exceed 12 minutes.

My biggest fail: Once, I forgot to flip my egg rolls. Half were perfect; the other half were pale and chewy. Now I set two timers—one for flipping, one for the total cook time.

Final Thoughts: Air Fryer Egg Rolls Are Here to Stay

So, can I make egg rolls in the air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. This method delivers the crispy, satisfying crunch of deep-fried rolls with a fraction of the fat, mess, and time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, the air fryer makes it easy to enjoy this takeout favorite at home, guilt-free.

What I love most is how adaptable it is. You can go classic with cabbage and pork, experiment with global flavors, or even make dessert rolls. The possibilities are endless. And the best part? No more waiting for takeout or dealing with a kitchen covered in oil. Just grab your air fryer, whip up a batch, and savor that first crispy bite.

Next time you’re craving egg rolls, skip the drive-thru and head to your kitchen. With a little prep and a trusty air fryer, you’ll have a crispy delight on your plate in minutes. Trust me—your taste buds (and your arteries) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make egg rolls in the air fryer without oil?

Yes, you can make egg rolls in the air fryer with little to no oil! The air fryer’s circulating hot air creates a crispy texture similar to deep-frying, but with significantly less oil. Lightly brushing the wrappers with oil enhances crispiness but isn’t mandatory.

How long do egg rolls take in the air fryer?

Egg rolls typically cook in the air fryer for 8–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on size and filling. Flip them halfway through for even browning. Always check for a golden, crispy exterior before serving.

Can I cook frozen egg rolls in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry frozen egg rolls at 380°F (193°C) for 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway. This method yields a crispier result than microwaving and avoids the sogginess of oven baking. No thawing required!

Why are my air fryer egg rolls soggy?

Sogginess often occurs from overcrowding or excess moisture in the filling. Ensure your filling is well-drained and leave space between rolls in the basket for proper air circulation. Preheating the air fryer can also help.

Can I make egg rolls in the air fryer ahead of time?

Yes, you can air fry egg rolls in advance and reheat them at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness. Store cooked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For meal prep, assemble uncooked rolls and freeze before air frying.

What’s the best way to get extra-crispy egg rolls in the air fryer?

For maximum crunch, lightly spray or brush egg rolls with oil before air frying. Cook in a single layer (no overlapping), and consider a quick second round at 400°F (200°C) for 1–2 minutes to intensify crispiness without burning.