Homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Emily Carter

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-07T16:59:55.703Z

Homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls are a delicious and crispy treat that everyone will love. These delightful bites are perfect for any gathering, serving as appetizers or snacks that are sure to impress your family and friends. With a crisp exterior and a savory filling, homemade egg rolls cooked in an air fryer are not only healthier but also straightforward to make. If you've been cringing at the thought of deep-frying, using an air fryer is a fantastic option that yields wonderful, crispy results without all the excess oil.

When you bite into these homemade egg rolls, you're greeted with a warm burst of flavor—a combination that is both familiar and exciting. Making them from scratch allows you to customize the fillings to suit your taste, ensuring that every egg roll is packed with your favorite ingredients. In this article, we will explore why this recipe stands out, how to prepare the ingredients, and give you step-by-step instructions to achieve perfect egg rolls using your air fryer.

Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make these amazing homemade air fryer egg rolls a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls are not just a dish; they’re an experience filled with crunchy textures and flavorful fillings. Here are some compelling reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

  1. Healthier Option – Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making egg rolls not only crispy but also lower in calories.
  2. Customizable Fillings – Whether you prefer traditional pork, chicken, or veggie options, you can tailor the filling to fit your dietary preferences.
  3. Easy Preparation – This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
  4. Quick Cooking Time – The air fryer cooks the egg rolls in less time than traditional frying, saving you time in the kitchen.
  5. Crispy Texture – You still get that satisfying crunch that everyone loves, thanks to the hot air circulation in the fryer.
  6. Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve these as a starter for dinner parties, movie nights, or as a key component of a festive appetizer spread.

With such versatility and ease of preparation, it’s clear why this particular egg roll recipe will become a favorite in your household.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Understanding how long it will take to prepare and cook your homemade air fryer egg rolls is essential. Aim for the following time estimates:

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes

These times may vary based on your experience level and equipment, but this framework provides a reliable estimate to ensure you're well-prepared.

Ingredients

  • 1 package of egg roll wrappers
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (or substitute with pork, tofu, etc.)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil for spraying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating homemade air fryer egg rolls can be a delightful activity that results in tasty treats. Just follow these simple steps:

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, shredded chicken, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Assemble the Egg Rolls:
  • Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner facing you, like a diamond shape.
  • Add about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
  • Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly toward the top corner.
  • Seal the edges by wetting them with a little water.
  1. Repeat: Continue the process until all wrappers and filling are used.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  3. Arrange the Egg Rolls: Lightly spray the basket of the air fryer with cooking spray. Place the egg rolls in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
  4. Cook: Air fry the egg rolls for 10-15 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
  5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the egg rolls from the fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

These steps will guide you in creating delicious homemade air fryer egg rolls that are perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve

Serving homemade air fryer egg rolls can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your egg roll presentation memorable:

  1. Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or spicy sriracha, to complement the flavors.
  2. Plating: Arrange the egg rolls on a decorative platter or serving board. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a visually appealing touch.
  3. Sides: Pair them with fresh veggies, like carrot sticks or cucumber slices, for a refreshing contrast.
  4. Beverage Pairing: Consider serving with iced tea, beer, or lemonade to complete the meal.

By thoughtfully considering how you serve your homemade air fryer egg rolls, you create an enjoyable and memorable dining experience for everyone involved.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh vegetables and meats. Freshness enhances the overall taste of your egg rolls.
  • Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in more filling, overfilling can make it difficult to roll the egg rolls tightly and cause them to burst during cooking.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to play around with different spices and sauces. Adding a pinch of ginger or some chili flakes can give your egg rolls an exciting twist.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This saves time on the day you plan to cook them.
  • Use Cooking Spray Generously: A light spray on the egg rolls before cooking can help achieve that golden-brown color and crispy texture.

Recipe Variation

There are countless ways to customize your homemade air fryer egg rolls to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:

  1. Vegetarian Delight: Substitute meat with a mixture of mushrooms, tofu, and additional vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
  2. Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha in the filling for a spicy version that packs a punch.
  3. Fusion Flavors: Try adding ingredients like barbecue chicken or buffalo sauce for a unique flavor twist that branches from tradition.
  4. Breakfast Egg Rolls: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced vegetables for a delightful breakfast treat.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: If you have leftover egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, lay the assembled but uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Cooking from Frozen: You can cook them directly from frozen. Just add an extra 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.

Special Equipment

To make the process of preparing homemade air fryer egg rolls easier, consider using the following tools:

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing all the filling ingredients effectively.
  • Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and proteins.
  • Spray Bottle or Cooking Spray: To lightly coat egg rolls before air frying for better crispiness.
  • Air Fryer: Of course, this is the star of the show! Ensure it has a large enough capacity to cook several egg rolls at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought filling?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or pre-seasoned filling to save time. Just adjust seasonings as necessary.

How can I tell when the egg rolls are done?

Egg rolls are done when they are golden brown and crispy. You can also use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What can I use instead of egg roll wrappers?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use rice paper. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary.

Can I make these egg rolls gluten-free?

Certainly! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your wrappers are also gluten-free.

How do I make sure they stay crispy?

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Make sure there's space for the hot air to circulate around each egg roll during cooking.

Conclusion

Homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls are a delightful and versatile dish that brings comfort and joy to any mealtime. These crispy, delicious rolls can be filled with your favorite ingredients, making them perfect for various dietary preferences and occasions. Additionally, they are easy to prepare and quick to cook, creating an appealing solution for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. With the tips and variations provided, you can unleash your creativity in the kitchen and serve an impressive dish that your family and friends will love.