Can I Cook Egg Rolls in My Air Fryer Here Is How

Yes, you can cook egg rolls in your air fryer for a healthier, crispier alternative to deep frying—achieving golden, crunchy perfection with minimal oil. Simply preheat, lightly spray, and cook in batches for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway, to enjoy restaurant-quality results at home.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can! Air fryers cook egg rolls perfectly with less oil.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat your air fryer for best results.
• Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches to ensure even, crispy egg rolls.
• Light oil spray: A quick spray enhances crispness without greasiness.
• Shake halfway: Flip or shake rolls for uniform cooking and browning.
• Frozen works too: Cook frozen egg rolls with minimal time adjustment.

Why Air Fryer Egg Rolls Deserve a Spot in Your Weekly Menu

Let’s be real: we’ve all stood in front of the freezer section, staring at those pre-packaged egg rolls, wondering if there’s a better way. Maybe you’re trying to cut down on oil, or perhaps you just don’t want to deal with the greasy mess of deep frying. That’s where the air fryer comes in—your trusty kitchen sidekick that promises crispy, golden results with little to no oil. But can I cook egg rolls in my air fryer? The short answer is yes, and the longer answer is that it’s not only possible, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy them.

I remember the first time I tried air frying egg rolls. I was skeptical. Could a little machine that looks like a futuristic rice cooker really replicate that satisfying crunch of a deep-fried egg roll? After a few trials (and one batch that came out a bit too dry—lesson learned!), I found the sweet spot. Now, I make air fryer egg rolls at least once a week. Whether I’m using frozen store-bought ones or homemade with fresh veggies and shrimp, the air fryer delivers every time. And the best part? No oil splatters, no smoke, and no guilt. If you’ve been curious about whether you can cook egg rolls in your air fryer, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the how, why, and what to watch out for.

How Air Frying Works and Why It’s Perfect for Egg Rolls

What Makes Air Frying Different from Deep Frying?

Air frying isn’t magic, but it’s close. It uses rapid air circulation to cook food evenly while creating a crispy outer layer. Think of it like a mini convection oven that focuses heat from all angles. Unlike deep frying, which submerges food in hot oil, air frying relies on a small amount of oil (or none at all) and high-speed hot air. This means you get that satisfying crunch without the extra calories or greasy aftertaste.

For egg rolls, this is a game-changer. The wrapper—typically a thin, flour-based dough—responds beautifully to air circulation. It crisps up quickly without absorbing excess oil, giving you a lighter, healthier version of your favorite appetizer. Plus, the consistent heat prevents soggy spots, which are common when microwaving or baking in a standard oven.

Benefits of Cooking Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer

• Healthier Option: Uses up to 80% less oil than deep frying. Great for those watching fat intake or managing cholesterol.
• Less Mess: No oil splatters to clean up. Just wipe down the basket after use.
• Faster Cooking: Preheats quickly and cooks faster than traditional ovens—usually 10–15 minutes.
• Consistent Results: Even heat distribution means fewer undercooked or burnt rolls.
• Versatile: Works with frozen, homemade, or leftover egg rolls.

One thing I love is how the air fryer preserves the flavor and texture of the filling. Whether it’s cabbage, carrots, pork, or tofu, the ingredients stay tender inside while the wrapper turns golden brown. It’s like getting the best of both worlds—crispy outside, juicy inside—without the deep-fry guilt.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Egg Rolls in Your Air Fryer

Prepping Your Air Fryer and Egg Rolls

Before you start, make sure your air fryer is clean and dry. Residual oil or food particles can smoke or affect flavor. If you’re using frozen egg rolls, no thawing is needed—cook them straight from the freezer. For homemade egg rolls, ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent filling leakage. A quick tip: brush the outside lightly with oil (use a spray or pastry brush) for extra crispiness. You only need about 1/2 teaspoon per roll—this is where the magic happens.

Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd. Most air fryers (like the popular Ninja, Cosori, or Instant Vortex) hold 8–12 egg rolls, depending on size. If you’re cooking more, do it in batches. Overlapping or stacking leads to uneven cooking and soft spots.

Cooking Temperatures and Times

Here’s the golden rule: 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes. This works for most standard egg rolls (about 3–4 inches long). Flip them halfway through (around the 6-minute mark) for even browning. If your air fryer has a shake reminder, use it! Otherwise, set a timer.

For frozen egg rolls, start at 12 minutes. They’re already pre-cooked, so you’re just reheating and crisping. For homemade or uncooked egg rolls, extend to 14–15 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety, especially if using meat or seafood.

Pro Tips for Crispy, Flawless Results

• Lightly oil the wrapper: A spritz of cooking spray or a dab of oil (avocado, canola, or sesame) boosts crispiness without adding much fat.
• Don’t skip the flip: This ensures both sides get golden and crunchy.
• Use parchment paper liners: If your air fryer allows, these prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Check early: Air fryers vary. Start checking at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Rest before serving: Let the rolls cool for 1–2 minutes. This keeps the wrapper crisp and prevents steam from softening it.

Once done, the egg rolls should be golden brown, slightly puffed, and crispy to the touch. If they look pale, give them an extra 1–2 minutes. But watch closely—they can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!

Frozen vs. Homemade: Which Egg Rolls Work Best?

Cooking Frozen Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer

Frozen egg rolls are a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Brands like Bibigo, Trader Joe’s, or Tai Pei work exceptionally well in the air fryer. They’re pre-seasoned, pre-cooked, and designed for quick reheating. I’ve tried about a dozen brands, and the air fryer consistently outperforms microwaving or baking.

One thing to note: not all frozen egg rolls are created equal. Some have thicker wrappers, which need a minute or two longer. Others are smaller (like mini spring rolls), so reduce cooking time to 8–10 minutes. Always check the package for guidance, but use the 375°F/12–15 min baseline as your starting point.

Making Homemade Egg Rolls for the Air Fryer

If you’re into DIY cooking, making your own egg rolls is rewarding and lets you control the ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe I love:

• Filling: 1 cup shredded cabbage, 1/2 cup grated carrots, 1/2 cup bean sprouts, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, 1/2 cup cooked shrimp or ground pork, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp sesame oil.
• Wrapper: 12 egg roll wrappers (found in the refrigerated section).
• Seal: Brush edges with water or egg wash to prevent opening during cooking.

Roll them tightly, leaving no gaps. A loose roll will burst in the air fryer. For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of salt or garlic powder on the outside before cooking. Homemade rolls take 14–15 minutes at 375°F. The result? A fresher, more vibrant taste than frozen, with a satisfying crunch.

Which Is Better?

It depends on your goals. Frozen egg rolls win for convenience and consistency. Homemade win for flavor, health (you control the oil and ingredients), and fun (great for family cooking nights). I alternate between both—frozen for quick lunches, homemade for weekend treats.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Egg Rolls Are Too Dry or Burnt

This is the #1 complaint. It usually happens when the temperature is too high or cooking time too long. Solution: lower the temp to 360°F and check at 10 minutes. If the rolls are browning too fast, spritz them with water halfway through to add moisture.

Another fix: brush with a tiny bit of oil before cooking. Oil helps the wrapper crisp without drying out. Avoid using olive oil—it burns at high heat. Stick to neutral oils like canola, avocado, or grapeseed.

Egg Rolls Are Soggy or Undercooked

Soggy rolls often mean overcrowding or not flipping. Make sure to leave space between each roll—about 1/2 inch is ideal. If your air fryer has a smaller basket, cook in batches. For undercooked rolls (especially homemade ones), increase time by 1–2 minutes, but keep an eye on them.

A pro tip: if the filling is dense (like a lot of meat or wet veggies), pre-cook it slightly before wrapping. This reduces moisture and prevents sogginess.

Wrappers Stick or Fall Apart

This happens if the rolls aren’t sealed well or the basket is too crowded. Always use water or egg wash to seal the edges. If using parchment paper, make sure it’s the perforated kind—solid liners block airflow and cause steaming instead of crisping.

If a roll does burst, don’t panic! It’s still edible. Just serve it as a “deconstructed” version—crispy bits with filling on the side. I’ve served these at parties, and guests never noticed!

Data Table: Air Fryer Egg Roll Cooking Guide

Type of Egg Roll	Temp (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Oil?	Flip?	Notes
Frozen (standard)	375	12–15	Optional	Yes	Check at 10 min; no thawing needed
Frozen (mini)	375	8–10	Optional	Yes	Smaller size = faster cooking
Homemade (uncooked)	375	14–15	Yes	Yes	Brush with oil; ensure tight seal
Leftover (refrigerated)	360	8–10	No	Yes	Lower temp to avoid drying
Vegetarian (dense filling)	375	15–16	Yes	Yes	Pre-cook filling if very wet

This table covers most scenarios you’ll encounter. Use it as a quick reference when you’re in a rush. I keep a printed copy on my fridge!

Serving, Storing, and Getting Creative

How to Serve Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Presentation matters! Serve egg rolls on a wire rack (not a plate) to keep them crispy. Pair them with classic dips: soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. I love making a quick dipping sauce: 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp ginger, and a dash of sesame oil.

For a full meal, serve with a side of steamed rice, a cucumber salad, or Asian slaw. They also make great party appetizers—just keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) while you cook the next batch.

Storing and Reheating

Got leftovers? Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the air fryer again at 360°F for 5–7 minutes. This brings back the crispiness better than microwaving (which makes them soggy). For freezing, wrap uncooked homemade rolls in plastic wrap and freeze. Cook from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the time.

Creative Twists to Try

• Cheesy Bacon Egg Rolls: Add shredded cheese and crumbled bacon to the filling. Kids love these!
• Breakfast Egg Rolls: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage. Cook at 375°F for 12 minutes.
• Fruit Egg Rolls: For dessert, fill with apples, cinnamon, and raisins. Brush with butter and sprinkle sugar before cooking.
• Gluten-Free: Use rice paper wrappers (cook 2–3 minutes less) or make lettuce wraps.

The air fryer opens up so many possibilities. I once made “taco egg rolls” with ground beef, cheese, and salsa—cooked in 13 minutes. My family devoured them!

So, can you cook egg rolls in your air fryer? Absolutely. It’s faster, cleaner, and healthier than deep frying, and the results are just as satisfying. Whether you’re using frozen convenience rolls or crafting your own masterpiece, the air fryer delivers crispy, golden perfection every time. Just remember the basics: don’t overcrowd, flip halfway, and keep an eye on the clock. With a little practice, you’ll be an air fryer egg roll pro. And who knows? You might just start looking at that freezer section with a whole new appreciation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

To cook frozen egg rolls in an air fryer, preheat to 380°F (193°C), place them in a single layer, and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. No thawing is needed, making it a quick and easy option.

What temperature should I use to cook egg rolls in an air fryer?

The ideal temperature for cooking egg rolls in an air fryer is 375–390°F (190–198°C). This range ensures a crispy exterior while cooking the filling thoroughly in 10–15 minutes, depending on size.

How do I prevent egg rolls from drying out in the air fryer?

To keep egg rolls moist, lightly brush or spray them with oil before cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches ensures even heat circulation for juicy, crispy results.

Can I cook homemade egg rolls in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Homemade egg rolls cook beautifully in an air fryer. Follow the same temperature guidelines (375–390°F) and cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.

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

Air-fried egg rolls are nearly as crispy as deep-fried versions but with far less oil and fewer calories. The flavor and texture are remarkably similar, making the air fryer a healthier, convenient alternative.