Can You Cook Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer A Crispy Delight

Yes, you can cook egg rolls in an air fryer—and they come out perfectly crispy with far less oil than traditional frying. With just a light spray of oil and 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), your egg rolls achieve a golden, crunchy exterior while staying juicy inside, making the air fryer a healthier, hassle-free alternative.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fry egg rolls for a crispy, healthier alternative to deep frying.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat your air fryer for optimal texture.
• Light oil spray: A quick spray ensures golden, crunchy results without excess oil.
• Single layer only: Avoid overcrowding to guarantee even cooking and crispiness.
• Shake halfway: Flip or shake rolls for uniform browning and crisp edges.
• Adjust time: Cook 8–12 minutes, checking often to prevent overcooking.

Can You Cook Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer? A Crispy Delight

Let’s be honest: egg rolls are one of those guilty pleasures we just can’t resist. That golden, crispy wrapper, the savory filling, and that satisfying crunch—pure comfort food. But here’s the catch: deep-frying them at home? Messy, oily, and honestly, a little intimidating. I remember the first time I tried frying egg rolls in a pot of oil. I ended up with smoke alarms blaring, oil splattered across my stovetop, and a batch that was either undercooked or burnt. Not exactly the kitchen triumph I was hoping for.

Then, I discovered the air fryer. It felt like a kitchen miracle. No oil splatters, less mess, and—best of all—crispy results without the deep fryer guilt. But could it really handle egg rolls? I had to find out. After months of testing (yes, I ate a lot of egg rolls), I’m here to tell you: yes, you can cook egg rolls in an air fryer, and it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re using store-bought frozen ones or making them from scratch, the air fryer delivers a crispy, golden finish that rivals deep-fried perfection. Let’s dive into how it works, why it’s worth trying, and how to get the best results every time.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Egg Rolls

How Air Frying Works for Egg Rolls

The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to crisp food from all angles. Think of it like a mini convection oven, but with more precision. For egg rolls, this means the wrapper gets evenly browned and crisp without needing a vat of oil. The key is the Maillard reaction—the chemical process that gives fried foods their golden color and savory flavor. The air fryer creates just the right conditions to trigger this, giving you that restaurant-quality crunch at home.

Unlike a regular oven, which can leave egg rolls soggy or unevenly cooked, the air fryer’s concentrated heat ensures every side gets crispy. Plus, you don’t have to worry about flipping them halfway through (though a light toss can help). It’s a hands-off, low-effort method that still delivers high-impact results.

Benefits Over Deep Frying

• Less oil, less guilt: Air frying uses 70–90% less oil than deep frying. For egg rolls, a light spray or brush of oil is all you need—no more greasy fingers or lingering kitchen smells.
• Faster cleanup: No oil to strain, store, or dispose of. Just wipe the air fryer basket, and you’re done.
• Consistent results: No more undercooked centers or burnt edges. The air fryer’s temperature control ensures even cooking.
• Healthier option: Lower fat content makes air-fried egg rolls a better choice for health-conscious eaters (though they’re still a treat—let’s not kid ourselves).

Here’s a personal tip: I once hosted a game night and needed to prep 30 egg rolls. Instead of frying them in batches (and risking a kitchen disaster), I used my air fryer. I cooked them in two rounds, and they came out perfectly crisp every time. My friends couldn’t tell the difference from a deep-fried batch—win!

How to Cook Frozen Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer

Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re using frozen egg rolls (a lifesaver for busy days), here’s how to cook them in an air fryer for the best results:

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures the egg rolls start cooking immediately, preventing a soggy wrapper.
2. Arrange the egg rolls: Place them in a single layer, leaving a little space between each. Overcrowding = uneven cooking. For most air fryers, 4–6 egg rolls fit comfortably.
3. Lightly oil (optional): Spray or brush a thin layer of oil on the rolls. This helps them brown and crisp up. I use avocado or canola oil for a neutral flavor.
4. Cook: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time depends on your air fryer model and the egg roll size. Look for a golden, crispy exterior.
5. Check for doneness: Cut one open to ensure the filling is steaming hot. If the center feels lukewarm, add 1–2 more minutes.

Pro Tips for Perfect Frozen Egg Rolls

• No need to thaw: Cooking them straight from frozen prevents soggy wrappers. Thawing can make the dough sticky and harder to crisp.
• Use parchment paper: For easy cleanup, line the basket with perforated parchment paper. It also prevents sticking.
• Batch cooking: If you’re cooking a large batch, keep the first batch warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you finish the rest.
• Season after cooking: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, or a dash of chili powder right after they come out. The heat helps the seasoning stick.

I tested this with three popular brands: Trader Joe’s, Tai Pei, and Bibigo. All cooked beautifully, but Trader Joe’s needed an extra minute (their wrappers are a bit thicker). The key takeaway? Always check your specific brand’s instructions as a starting point, then adjust based on your air fryer.

Cooking Homemade Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer

Prep and Assembly

Making egg rolls from scratch? The air fryer is still your best friend. Here’s how to prep them for air frying:

• Use a light oil spray: Brush or spray the wrappers with oil before rolling. This helps them crisp up evenly.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling makes the rolls prone to bursting. Stick to 2–3 tablespoons per roll.
• Seal the edges: Use a bit of water or egg wash to seal the edges tightly. This prevents them from unraveling during cooking.
• Chill before cooking: Let the rolls sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before air frying. This firms up the wrapper and helps it crisp better.

Air Fryer Cooking Tips

1. Preheat the air fryer: Same as frozen rolls—380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Arrange carefully: Place rolls seam-side down to prevent opening during cooking.
3. Spray with oil: Give them another light spray before cooking. This ensures maximum crispiness.
4. Cook in batches: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Watch for golden brown color.
5. Rest before serving: Let them cool for 1–2 minutes. This helps the filling settle and prevents burns.

Filling Ideas for Homemade Rolls

The best part about homemade egg rolls? You control the filling. Here are some crowd-pleasing ideas:

• Classic pork and cabbage: Ground pork, shredded cabbage, carrots, garlic, and ginger.
• Vegetarian: Tofu, mushrooms, bell peppers, and glass noodles.
• Spicy chicken: Shredded chicken, jalapeños, scallions, and a dash of sriracha.
• Shrimp and veggie: Chopped shrimp, bok choy, and water chestnuts.

Pro tip: I love adding a teaspoon of hoisin or oyster sauce to the filling for extra umami. Just don’t overdo it—wet fillings can make the wrapper soggy.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

One of the biggest mistakes? Piling too many egg rolls into the air fryer. This blocks air circulation, leading to uneven cooking and soggy spots. Always cook in a single layer with space between each roll. If you’re feeding a crowd, cook in batches and keep the first batch warm in the oven.

Skipping the Oil

Egg rolls need a little oil to crisp up. Skipping it can leave them dry and pale. A light spray or brush is all you need—no need to douse them. I use a refillable oil sprayer for even coverage.

Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Starting with a cold air fryer means the rolls will steam instead of crisp. Always preheat for 3–5 minutes. This ensures they start cooking immediately and develop that golden crust.

Flipping Too Much

Egg rolls need a flip halfway through, but don’t overdo it. Frequent flipping can break the wrapper or make it lose its crispness. One flip is usually enough.

Ignoring Doneness Cues

Every air fryer is different. Rely on visual cues, not just the timer. Look for a deep golden color, a crisp exterior, and a steaming-hot filling. When in doubt, cut one open to check.

Comparing Air-Fried vs. Deep-Fried Egg Rolls

How do air-fried egg rolls stack up against deep-fried ones? Let’s break it down:

Factor	Air-Fried Egg Rolls	Deep-Fried Egg Rolls
Texture	Crispy on all sides, slightly drier (but still juicy inside)	Uniformly crispy, oilier mouthfeel
Flavor	Clean, savory, less greasy	Rich, oily, classic fried flavor
Health	70–90% less oil, lower fat	High oil absorption, higher fat
Convenience	Quick cleanup, no oil disposal	Messy, requires oil management
Time	10–12 minutes	15–20 minutes (plus oil heating)
Best for	Weeknight meals, health-conscious eaters	Special occasions, traditional flavor

My take? Air-fried egg rolls are a fantastic everyday option. They’re crisp, flavorful, and way easier to make. But if you’re craving that classic deep-fried richness for a party or special dinner, go for the real deal. The air fryer isn’t a replacement—it’s a smarter alternative.

Final Thoughts and Pro Tips for Success

So, can you cook egg rolls in an air fryer? Absolutely. Whether you’re using frozen or homemade, the air fryer delivers crispy, golden results with minimal effort. Here are my top takeaways:

• Preheat, don’t skip it: It’s the secret to a crisp wrapper.
• Light oil = maximum crunch: A spray or brush is all you need.
• Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches for even results.
• Flip once: Midway is usually enough.
• Experiment with fillings: The air fryer works for any recipe.

I’ve made egg rolls for family dinners, potlucks, and even late-night snacks, and the air fryer never disappoints. The best part? No more oil splatters or smoky kitchens. Just crispy, delicious egg rolls—every time.

One last tip: pair your air-fried egg rolls with a dipping sauce. My go-to is a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a dash of chili oil. It’s the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy. And if you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or scallions.

So, grab your air fryer, pick up some egg rolls (or roll your own), and give it a try. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to get that crispy delight—without the mess. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you 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 creates a crispy exterior, mimicking deep-fried results while using up to 80% less oil.

How long does it take to air fry egg rolls?

Most egg rolls take 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in an air fryer. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness, and adjust time slightly for store-bought vs. homemade varieties.

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

Air-fried egg rolls can be nearly as crispy as deep-fried versions when lightly sprayed with oil. For extra crunch, use a high-heat setting and avoid overcrowding the basket.

Can you cook frozen egg rolls in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Frozen egg rolls cook perfectly in an air fryer—no thawing needed. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping once, for a quick, crispy snack.

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

Lightly brush or spray egg rolls with oil before air frying to retain moisture. Avoid overcooking, and check for a golden-brown color to ensure a perfect balance of crisp and tender.

Can you reheat leftover egg rolls in an air fryer?

Yes, reheating egg rolls in an air fryer restores their crunch. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes, and they’ll taste as good as fresh!