These Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls deliver everything you love about classic takeout egg rolls—golden, crunchy wrappers and a savory, flavorful filling—without deep frying. Using the air fryer gives you that irresistible crisp texture with much less oil, making them lighter but still incredibly satisfying.

Filled with seasoned cabbage, vegetables, and optional protein, these homemade egg rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party food. They cook quickly, freeze well, and taste even better than restaurant versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra crispy without deep frying
• Healthier, lower oil method
• Easy to customize filling
• Freezer-friendly
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect appetizer or snack
• Great for meal prep

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Yield

12 egg rolls

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 2 cups (150 g) shredded cabbage
• 1 cup (80 g) shredded carrots
• ½ cup (50 g) bean sprouts (optional)
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Protein

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground pork

For Assembly

• 12 egg roll wrappers
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for sealing paste)
• Cooking spray or light oil brush

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Pastry brush (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add a small drizzle of oil, then sauté:

• Garlic
• Ginger

Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add:

• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Bean sprouts
• Green onions

Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 2: Season the Filling

Add:

• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

If using protein, stir it in now.

Cook for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Let the filling cool slightly before wrapping.

Step 3: Prepare the Wrappers

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape.

Place about:

2–3 tablespoons filling

in the center.

Step 4: Roll the Egg Rolls

1. Fold the bottom corner over the filling
2. Fold in both sides tightly
3. Roll upward firmly
4. Seal the top edge with cornstarch slurry

Repeat with remaining wrappers.

Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to:

375°F (190°C)

for about 3–5 minutes.

Step 6: Air Fry

Lightly spray egg rolls with oil or brush them evenly.

Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer (do not overcrowd).

Cook at:

375°F (190°C)

for:

10–12 minutes

Flip halfway through cooking.

They should be:

• Golden brown
• Crispy on all sides
• Firm and crunchy

Step 7: Serve

Let them cool for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Serve hot with dipping sauces.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Classic Sweet Chili Sauce

• Sweet
• Spicy
• Sticky

Soy-Ginger Sauce

• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Ginger
• Garlic

Spicy Mayo

• Mayonnaise
• Sriracha
• Lime juice

Duck Sauce

• Sweet and tangy classic pairing

Tips for Extra Crispy Egg Rolls

Don’t Overfill

Too much filling can cause tearing or sogginess.

Keep Wrappers Tight

Air pockets reduce crispiness.

Use Light Oil Spray

A thin coating helps achieve golden crunch.

Don’t Overcrowd Air Fryer

Leave space for hot air circulation.

Flip Halfway

Ensures even browning on all sides.

Variations

Chicken Egg Rolls

Add:

• Shredded cooked chicken
• Extra garlic and soy sauce

Shrimp Egg Rolls

Add:

• Chopped cooked shrimp
• A squeeze of lime

Vegetable Egg Rolls

Skip meat and add:

• Mushrooms
• Bell peppers
• Snap peas

Spicy Egg Rolls

Add:

• Chili flakes
• Sriracha in filling

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free rice paper wraps (texture will be slightly different but still crispy when air fried).

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container for:

Up to 3 days

Freezer (Best Option)

Freeze uncooked or cooked egg rolls for:

Up to 2 months

To Cook From Frozen:

Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 13–15 minutes

Reheating

• Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes
• Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes
• Avoid microwave (makes them soft)

Nutritional Information

Approximate per egg roll:

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 280 mg

(Nutrition varies based on filling and protein choice.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Why are my egg rolls not crispy?

They may need more oil spray or a slightly longer cook time.

Can I bake instead of air fry?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.

Do I need to pre-cook the filling?

Yes, lightly cooking the filling prevents excess moisture inside the wrappers.