Quick Air Fryer Egg Rolls Recipe: Healthier Takeout Style

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Egg rolls are one of those irresistible treats you just can’t get enough of. The crispy wrapper, the savory filling, and the perfect dipping sauce—it all comes together in a bite of heaven. But if you’ve ever shied away from making them at home because of the messy deep-frying process, this recipe will change everything. Air Fryer Egg Rolls are a game-changer. With less oil and no greasy mess, you’ll get the same crispy exterior and flavorful filling in a much healthier way. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an easy appetizer, these air-fried egg rolls are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Egg Rolls

  • Healthier Option: You’ll use significantly less oil compared to traditional frying while still achieving that perfect crunch.
  • Customizable: From veggie-packed versions to spicy variations, you can tailor the filling to suit your taste.
  • Quick and Easy: Using an air fryer cuts down the cooking time and eliminates the need for deep-frying.
  • Perfect Party Food: These egg rolls are crowd-pleasers and can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even a main dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy, golden egg rolls:

  • 1/2 large Napa, Savoy, or green cabbage (shredded, about 4 cups)
  • 1 large carrot (grated, about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 large clove garlic (finely grated)
  • 1 (1-inch) piece ginger (grated, about 1 tablespoon)
  • 1 large stalk celery (finely diced)
  • 2 large scallions (finely chopped)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 8 ounces ground pork
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
  • 1 cup fresh mung bean sprouts (or 1 cup drained canned bean sprouts)
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 10 (7×7-inch) egg roll wrappers (thawed if frozen)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

  1. Finely shred the cabbage until you have about 4 cups.
  2. Peel and grate the carrot until you have about 1/2 cup.
  3. Finely grate the garlic and ginger. Dice the celery and chop the scallions.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  5. Add the celery and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring often, until it starts to soften and turn bright green.
  6. Add the garlic and ginger and stir for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  7. Add the ground pork and Chinese five-spice powder (if using). Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, breaking up the pork with a spoon, until it’s fully cooked, browned, and any liquid has evaporated.
  8. Stir in the shredded cabbage and mung bean sprouts. Cook for another 4 minutes, stirring often, until the cabbage is wilted.
  9. Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, Sriracha (if using), and toasted sesame oil. Stir to combine.
  10. Add the grated carrot and scallions, cooking for 1 more minute until slightly wilted.
  11. Remove the filling from the heat and let it cool for about 15 minutes before assembling the egg rolls.

2. Assemble the Egg Rolls

  1. Prepare a small bowl of water and a pastry brush.
  2. Place 1 egg roll wrapper on a flat surface in a diamond shape. Cover the remaining wrappers with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Add 1/4 cup of the filling to the bottom half of the wrapper and shape it into a rectangle.
  4. Roll the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the left and right corners like an envelope.
  5. Brush the top corner of the wrapper with water, then continue rolling tightly until sealed.
  6. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

3. Air Fry the Egg Rolls

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
  2. Brush the egg rolls all over with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  3. Place 5 egg rolls seam-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
  4. Air fry for 6 minutes, then flip them and cook for another 6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Transfer the cooked egg rolls to a wire rack and tent with aluminum foil to keep them warm while you cook the remaining batch.

4. Serve

  • Serve the egg rolls warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or hoisin sauce.

Nutritional Information

NutrientPer Egg Roll
Calories180
Protein7g
Fat9g
Carbohydrates15g
Sodium300mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Egg Rolls

1. Don’t Overfill the Wrappers

Using too much filling can make it difficult to seal the egg rolls and may cause them to burst during cooking. Stick to about 1/4 cup of filling per wrapper.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh cabbage, carrots, and scallions give the filling a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor.


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3. Keep Wrappers Moist

Egg roll wrappers can dry out quickly, making them harder to work with. Cover the unused wrappers with a damp towel while assembling.

4. Brush with Oil

Brushing the egg rolls with olive oil ensures a crispy, golden exterior without deep frying.

5. Make Ahead and Freeze

Assemble the egg rolls and freeze them uncooked. When ready to eat, air fry directly from frozen—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs About Air Fryer Egg Rolls

1. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?

Yes! Ground chicken or turkey works just as well and can be a leaner alternative to pork.

2. Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the ground pork and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add tofu for extra protein.

3. What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these egg rolls in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

5. Can I use spring roll wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers?

Spring roll wrappers are thinner and more delicate but can be used. Be careful when handling them, as they tear more easily.

6. What dipping sauces go well with air fryer egg rolls?

Try serving them with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or even a spicy peanut sauce for a delicious pairing.

Why Air Fryer Egg Rolls Are a Must-Try

Making egg rolls at home has never been easier—or healthier—thanks to the air fryer. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a batch of crispy, golden egg rolls without the hassle of deep frying. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these egg rolls are packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress.

Call to Action

Ready to try this delicious and healthier twist on a classic dish? Grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and make these Air Fryer Egg Rolls today! Your family and friends will thank you for it.

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Quick Air Fryer Egg Rolls Recipe: Healthier Takeout Style


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  • Author: Merry
  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 10 egg rolls

Description

If you’ve ever craved crispy, golden egg rolls at home but wanted a healthier alternative to deep frying, this Air Fryer Egg Rolls recipe is your answer. Packed with savory ground pork, crunchy cabbage, and fresh veggies, these egg rolls deliver bold flavors with every bite. Using an air fryer ensures they’re perfectly crispy with a fraction of the oil, making them a guilt-free treat. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate snack, appetizer, or meal addition. Whether you’re entertaining or just satisfying a craving, these air-fried egg rolls are guaranteed to impress.


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Ingredients

  • 1/2 large Napa, Savoy, or green cabbage (shredded, about 4 cups)
  • 1 large carrot (peeled and grated, about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 large clove garlic (finely grated)
  • 1 (1-inch) piece of ginger (grated, about 1 tablespoon)
  • 1 large stalk celery (finely diced)
  • 2 large scallions (finely chopped)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 8 ounces ground pork
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
  • 1 cup fresh mung bean sprouts (or 1 cup drained canned bean sprouts)
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 10 (7×7-inch) egg roll wrappers (thawed if frozen)

Instructions

 Prepare the Filling

  1. Shred the cabbage until you have about 4 cups, and peel and grate the carrot until you have 1/2 cup.
  2. Grate the garlic and ginger, then dice the celery and chop the scallions.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the diced celery and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until it softens slightly.
  5. Add the grated garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add the ground pork and sprinkle with Chinese five-spice powder if using. Cook for 3–4 minutes, breaking the pork into small pieces, until fully cooked and browned.
  7. Stir in the shredded cabbage and mung bean sprouts, cooking for 4 minutes until the cabbage wilts.
  8. Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, Sriracha (if using), and toasted sesame oil. Stir well to combine.
  9. Finally, stir in the grated carrot and scallions. Cook for 1 additional minute, then remove from heat. Let the filling cool for 15 minutes.

2. Assemble the Egg Rolls

  1. Prepare a small bowl of water and a pastry brush.
  2. Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface in a diamond shape. Keep the unused wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Place 1/4 cup of the filling near the bottom of the wrapper and shape it into a small rectangle.
  4. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, roll once, then fold in the left and right corners like an envelope.
  5. Brush the top corner with water and continue rolling tightly until sealed. Press firmly to close the edge. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

3. Air Fry the Egg Rolls

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
  2. Brush each egg roll with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
  3. Place 5 egg rolls seam-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching.
  4. Air fry for 6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Remove the egg rolls and place them on a wire rack. Tent them with aluminum foil to keep warm while you cook the remaining batch.

4. Serve

    • Serve the egg rolls warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or hoisin sauce.

Notes

  • Don’t Overfill: Use about 1/4 cup of filling per egg roll to prevent the wrappers from tearing or bursting during cooking.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the pork with diced mushrooms or crumbled tofu for a meatless version.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the egg rolls and freeze them uncooked. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Crispier Egg Rolls: Brushing the egg rolls with oil before air frying ensures they come out golden and crispy.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes per batch
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Air-Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

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