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

Yes, you can make egg rolls in the air fryer—and they come out perfectly crispy with far less oil than traditional frying. With just a light spray of oil and 12–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), air-fried egg rolls achieve a golden, crunchy shell while staying tender inside, making them a healthier, hassle-free alternative.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryers make crispy egg rolls with less oil than frying.
• Preheat the air fryer for even, golden-brown results every time.
• Lightly spray egg rolls with oil to enhance crispiness and texture.
• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure consistent crunch.
• Flip halfway through for uniformly crispy egg rolls on all sides.
• Check internal temp to ensure filling is fully cooked and safe.

Can You Make Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer? A Crispy Delight

Have you ever craved the crunch of a golden-brown egg roll, only to hesitate at the thought of deep-frying? You’re not alone. The smell of hot oil, the mess, the lingering grease—it’s enough to make anyone think twice. But what if you could get that same crispiness, with less guilt and less hassle? Enter the air fryer: your kitchen’s secret weapon for turning traditional fried foods into lighter, healthier versions without sacrificing flavor or texture.

I remember the first time I tried making egg rolls in my air fryer. I was skeptical. Could this countertop gadget really deliver that iconic, shatteringly crisp wrapper I loved from my favorite takeout spot? To my delight, it did—and it was easier than I expected. No oil splatters, no smoke alarms, just perfectly golden rolls with a satisfying crunch. Since then, I’ve experimented with different fillings, cooking times, and techniques, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned. So, can you make egg rolls in the air fryer? Absolutely—and here’s how to do it right.

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

How the Air Fryer Works Its Magic

The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to mimic the effects of deep-frying. A heating element at the top warms the air, and a powerful fan pushes it down and around the food. This process creates a convection effect, crisping the outside while cooking the inside evenly. For egg rolls, this means a golden, crunchy wrapper without submerging them in oil.

Think of it like a mini convection oven with a turbo boost. The key is the Maillard reaction—the same chemical process that browns meat and toasts bread. When the hot air hits the egg roll wrapper, it triggers browning, giving you that classic fried appearance and texture. Plus, the air fryer’s compact size means it heats up faster and uses less energy than your oven.

Health Benefits vs. Traditional Frying

If you’ve ever felt guilty after eating a few too many deep-fried egg rolls, you’re not alone. A single deep-fried egg roll can contain 200–300 calories and 10–15 grams of fat—most of it from oil. In contrast, air-fried egg rolls can cut the fat by 70–80%. For example, one store-bought egg roll might have 12 grams of fat, while an air-fried version with a light oil spray has just 3–4 grams.

But it’s not just about calories. Deep-frying at high temperatures can create acrylamide (a potentially harmful compound), while air-frying reduces its formation. Plus, you avoid the risk of oil splatters and burns. My friend Sarah, who has young kids, loves that she can make egg rolls without worrying about hot oil near curious little hands.

Convenience and Cleanup

Let’s be real: cleaning up after deep-frying is a chore. Grease splatters on the stove, sticky pans, and the lingering smell in your kitchen. The air fryer, on the other hand, is a breeze. Most baskets are nonstick and dishwasher-safe, and a quick wipe with a damp cloth is often enough. I once made egg rolls for a party, and the cleanup took me less than five minutes—no scrubbing, no soaking.

Another perk? The air fryer preheats in 2–3 minutes, so you can go from craving to eating in under 20 minutes. No waiting for a pot of oil to heat up or a full oven to preheat.

How to Make Perfect Air-Fried Egg Rolls

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The foundation of a great egg roll starts with the wrapper. Look for spring roll or egg roll wrappers (usually found in the refrigerated section of Asian markets or large grocery stores). Avoid rice paper wrappers—they’re too delicate for air-frying. Pro tip: Let frozen wrappers thaw for 15 minutes before use to prevent cracking.

For the filling, the sky’s the limit. Classic combinations include:

• Vegetarian: Shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and mushrooms.
• Meat-based: Ground pork, chicken, or shrimp with scallions and ginger.
• Fusion twist: Korean-style with kimchi, tofu, and gochujang.

My go-to recipe is a mix of cabbage, carrots, and ground chicken, seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. The key is to pre-cook the filling—raw vegetables release too much moisture, which can make the wrapper soggy. I sauté the filling for 5–7 minutes until the veggies soften and the meat is browned, then let it cool before wrapping.

Wrapping Techniques for Success

Proper wrapping is crucial to prevent bursting in the air fryer. Here’s my step-by-step method:

1. Place the wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you (like a diamond).
2. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center, leaving a 1-inch border.
3. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides.
4. Roll upward, tucking the filling in as you go. Moisten the top corner with water to seal.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Overfilling: Too much filling = burst rolls. Stick to 2–3 tablespoons.
• Wet filling: Pat the cooked filling with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Loose wrapping: A tight roll stays intact during cooking.

For extra crispiness, I brush the outside with a light coating of oil (1 tsp per roll) or use a cooking spray. This helps the wrapper brown evenly and prevents drying out.

Air Fryer Settings and Timing

Every air fryer is different, but here’s a general guideline for how to cook egg rolls in the air fryer:

• Preheat: 3–5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Cook time: 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Final crisp: Add 2–3 minutes if needed.

My Ninja Foodi works best at 375°F. I arrange 4–5 rolls in a single layer (no overlapping!), spray with oil, and cook for 6 minutes. Then I flip them, spray again, and cook for another 6 minutes. The result? Crispy, golden rolls with a tender filling.

Pro tip: If your rolls are browning too quickly, lower the temperature to 350°F. If they’re not crispy enough, extend the time by 2–3 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp—165°F for meat, 145°F for veggie-only rolls.

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Egg Roll Issues

Soggy Wrappers? Here’s Why

Nothing ruins an egg roll faster than a soggy wrapper. The culprit is usually excess moisture. Here’s how to fix it:

• Pre-cook your filling: Sauté veggies and meat to remove water. I once skipped this step and ended up with steamed rolls—not what I wanted!
• Drain well: After cooking, let the filling sit in a colander for 5 minutes to release steam.
• Avoid overcrowding: Air needs to circulate. Cook in batches if necessary.

Another tip: If your rolls are still soft after cooking, pop them back in for 1–2 minutes at 400°F. This “flash crisp” trick works wonders.

Burnt or Unevenly Cooked Rolls

If your egg rolls are burning on one side or not cooking evenly, try these fixes:

• Flip halfway: Most air fryers have hot spots. Flipping ensures even browning.
• Rotate the basket: If your model doesn’t have a rotating tray, turn the basket 180° halfway through.
• Use parchment paper: Parchment with holes (or a silicone liner) prevents sticking and promotes airflow.

I learned this the hard way—my first batch had one side charred and the other pale. Now I flip them religiously!

Sticking to the Basket

Sticky rolls are frustrating, but easily preventable:

• Light oil spray: A quick spritz before cooking creates a nonstick barrier.
• Parchment paper: Use a liner with holes to allow airflow while preventing sticking.
• Nonstick basket: If your basket is scratched, replace it or use a liner.

One time, I forgot to spray the basket and had to pry the rolls off with a spatula. Lesson learned!

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Classic vs. Creative Fillings

While traditional egg rolls are delicious, don’t be afraid to experiment. Here are some crowd-pleasing ideas:

• Thai-inspired: Coconut curry chicken with bell peppers and basil.
• BBQ jackfruit: Shredded jackfruit with smoky BBQ sauce (vegan-friendly).
• Breakfast rolls: Scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon—great for brunch!

My family’s favorite is a “taco roll” with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and pico de gallo. We serve it with guacamole instead of duck sauce—a fun twist!

Sauce Pairings and Dipping Tips

The right sauce elevates your egg rolls. Try these pairings:

• Classic: Duck sauce or sweet chili sauce.
• Umami boost: Soy sauce mixed with lime juice and a dash of sriracha.
• Cool contrast: Greek yogurt with garlic and dill (for a healthier option).

For a DIY dipping station, set out small bowls of different sauces and let everyone customize. My niece loves mixing peanut butter with a little soy sauce—unexpected but delicious!

Dietary Adaptations

Egg rolls can easily fit into special diets:

• Gluten-free: Use rice paper wrappers and gluten-free soy sauce.
• Low-carb: Wrap in lettuce leaves or use a keto-friendly wrapper.
• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and load up on tofu, mushrooms, or tempeh.

My friend Mark, who’s gluten-free, uses rice paper wrappers and loves the light, crispy texture. He sprays them with oil and cooks them 2 minutes longer than regular wrappers.

Batch Cooking and Storage Tips

Prepping Ahead for Busy Days

Egg rolls freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Here’s how:

1. Assemble rolls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Freeze for 1–2 hours until solid (this prevents sticking).
3. Transfer to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.

To cook from frozen, air-fry at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. No need to thaw! I keep a stash in my freezer for impromptu appetizers or quick lunches.

Reheating Without Losing Crispness

Got leftovers? Reheat them right:

• Air fryer: 3–4 minutes at 350°F (best for maintaining crunch).
• Oven: 10–12 minutes at 375°F on a wire rack.
• Microwave: Not recommended—it makes the wrapper rubbery. If you must, add 1 minute in the air fryer afterward to crisp up.

I once reheated egg rolls in the microwave and regretted it. The air fryer method saved them!

Storage Times and Safety

Follow these guidelines to keep your egg rolls safe:

Storage Method	Duration	Tips
Room temperature	2 hours max	Discard if left out longer (risk of bacteria).
Refrigerated	3–4 days	Store in an airtight container with paper towels to absorb moisture.
Frozen (raw)	1–2 months	Label with date to avoid freezer burn.
Frozen (cooked)	3 months	Reheat to 165°F internal temp.

Conclusion: The Air Fryer Egg Roll Revolution

So, can you make egg rolls in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and they’re better than you might expect. With less oil, less mess, and less time, the air fryer delivers crispy, golden rolls that rival deep-fried versions. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or just someone who loves good food, this method is a game-changer.

I’ve shared my tips, tricks, and even my mistakes (like the time I forgot to flip the rolls and ended up with half-cooked lumps). But that’s the beauty of cooking: it’s a journey. Experiment with fillings, adjust cooking times for your model, and don’t be afraid to try new sauces. Before long, you’ll be making egg rolls that impress even the pickiest eaters.

Next time you’re craving that satisfying crunch, skip the takeout menu and head to your air fryer. Your taste buds—and your kitchen—will thank you. Happy frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you 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 up to 70% less oil, making it a healthier option.

How long do you cook egg rolls in the air fryer?

Egg rolls typically take 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in the air fryer. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness, and adjust time slightly depending on your air fryer model and egg roll size.

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

Air fryer egg rolls come remarkably close to deep-fried crispiness when cooked properly. Lightly spraying the wrappers with oil before cooking enhances crunch, and the air fryer’s rapid air circulation delivers a golden, flaky finish.

Can you cook frozen egg rolls in the air fryer?

Yes, frozen egg rolls cook perfectly in the air fryer—no thawing needed. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, flipping once, for a quick and crispy snack or meal.

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

To keep air fryer egg rolls moist, lightly brush or spray them with oil before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even airflow, and don’t overcook—stick to the recommended 10–12 minute window.

Can you make homemade egg rolls in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Homemade egg rolls turn out crispy and delicious in the air fryer. Assemble your favorite filling and wrappers, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes for a guilt-free, crispy delight.