Cooking frozen egg rolls in the air fryer has become a game changer for many home cooks. No need for the hassle of deep frying or waiting for the oven to heat up. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy golden, crispy egg rolls in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re craving a snack, appetizer, or side dish, air-frying frozen egg rolls is the fastest way to get restaurant-quality results right at home. But what makes the air fryer the best option for this task? And how can you elevate the experience even further? In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, including tips, tricks, and answers to common questions.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Frozen Egg Rolls?
Using an air fryer for cooking frozen egg rolls comes with numerous advantages. Here are a few reasons why it’s the best method:
• Speed: Air frying takes just 10-12 minutes, far quicker than traditional baking, which often takes over 20 minutes.
• Crispiness: The hot air circulation in the fryer ensures a crispy, golden exterior without excessive oil.
• Healthier Option: Air frying uses little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying.
• Convenience: You can cook directly from frozen, eliminating the need for thawing or prep time.
By choosing the air fryer, you’re not only saving time but also getting that satisfying crunch every time you cook.
What You Need to Make Frozen Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer
Before you get started, gather the following items:
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Frozen Egg Rolls: Pick your favorite flavor—vegetable, chicken, shrimp, or pork.
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Air Fryer: Whether you have a basket-style or oven-style air fryer, either will work fine for this recipe.
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Dipping Sauce (optional): Sweet and sour, duck sauce, or Thai chili are great choices for dipping.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Frozen Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer
Ready to make your crispy egg rolls? Follow this simple guide:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Most air fryers need a quick preheat before cooking. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat for about 3 minutes. This step helps ensure even cooking and crispiness.
2. Arrange the Frozen Egg Rolls
Take the frozen egg rolls out of their package. Lay them flat in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Ensure there’s space between each roll to allow the hot air to circulate, which is key to achieving that crispy outer layer.
3. Air Fry the Egg Rolls
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, about 5-6 minutes, give the egg rolls a quick flip. This ensures they brown evenly on both sides.
4. Check for Crispiness
Once the timer goes off, check your egg rolls. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you feel they need more crispness, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve with Your Favorite Dipping Sauce
Once done, carefully remove the egg rolls and let them cool for a minute or two. Then, dip them in your favorite sauce, such as sweet and sour, soy sauce, or Thai chili. The combination of crispy texture and flavorful dipping sauce is irresistible!
Air Fryer Frozen Egg Rolls: Top Tips for Success
To get the best possible results, here are a few tips that will take your egg rolls to the next level:
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Avoid Overcrowding: While it may be tempting to cook a large batch at once, it’s best to avoid overcrowding the basket. Leave space between each egg roll for optimal air circulation. If you’re cooking a large batch, consider doing it in batches.
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Flip for Even Cooking: Flipping your egg rolls halfway through ensures both sides get an even golden crisp.
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Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size: If you’re cooking mini egg rolls or larger, be sure to adjust the cooking time. Smaller rolls may need only 5-7 minutes, while larger rolls might require a little extra time.
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Preheat Your Air Fryer: While some air fryers don’t require preheating, doing so can help ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
Different Egg Roll Variations for Your Air Fryer
You don’t have to stick to the traditional frozen egg rolls. Experiment with different types of egg rolls, such as:
• Vegetable Egg Rolls: A great option for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter alternative.
• Pork Egg Rolls: For a savory option with a rich, meaty filling.
• Shrimp Egg Rolls: Ideal for seafood lovers craving something a bit more unique.
• Chicken Egg Rolls: A classic choice that’s always satisfying.
Mix it up and try out different flavors to suit your family’s preferences.
What Makes Air-Fried Frozen Egg Rolls a Great Option for Snacking
Air frying frozen egg rolls is not just about making a quick snack; it’s also about creating an elevated experience that mimics your favorite restaurant appetizers. Here’s why they’re such a perfect choice for snacking or entertaining:
Crisp, Crunchy, and Full of Flavor
Air-fried frozen egg rolls have the crispy, crunchy texture you crave without the greasy mess of deep frying. The air fryer circulates hot air around the rolls, crisping them up perfectly on all sides. This method locks in the fillings, making sure each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
A Versatile Snack for Any Occasion
Frozen egg rolls are versatile enough for all occasions:
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Quick Snack: Perfect for a quick bite between meals.
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Appetizer: Serve them at parties or as a starter before a meal.
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Side Dish: Pair them with an Asian-inspired meal or a salad for a complete dish.
You can even prepare them ahead of time for gatherings, saving you time while still impressing your guests.
How to Store Leftover Egg Rolls
While it’s always best to enjoy egg rolls fresh from the air fryer, you may end up with leftovers. Here’s how to store them properly:
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Cool Completely: Let the egg rolls cool to room temperature.
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Store in an Airtight Container: Place the egg rolls in an airtight container to prevent them from getting soggy.
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Refrigerate: Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating Leftover Egg Rolls
To bring back that crispy texture, reheat leftover egg rolls in the air fryer for about 3-4 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This will restore their crunchiness and ensure they’re heated through.
Freezing Leftover Egg Rolls: Can You Refreeze Them?
While you can store cooked egg rolls for a short period, it’s important to note that refreezing is not recommended. Freezing and thawing multiple times can lead to soggy egg rolls. If you plan on freezing your egg rolls, it’s better to do so before cooking.
How to Freeze Uncooked Egg Rolls
If you want to have egg rolls on hand for a future craving:
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Arrange the Egg Rolls on a Tray: Place them on a tray or baking sheet in a single layer.
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Freeze for 1-2 Hours: Flash-freeze the egg rolls by placing them in the freezer for a couple of hours.
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Store in a Freezer Bag: Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. You can store them for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to cook, simply place the frozen egg rolls in the air fryer and cook as directed.
FAQs On (Frozen Egg Rolls in Air Fryer)
How long do I cook frozen egg rolls in the air fryer?
Cook frozen egg rolls for 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), flipping halfway through for an even crisp.
Can you cook frozen rolls in an air fryer?
Yes, you can. Just follow the cooking time and temperature guidelines based on the type of roll you’re making.
How do you cook egg rolls in the air fryer?
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), arrange the egg rolls in a single layer, and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion on Frozen Egg Rolls in Air Fryer
Air frying frozen egg rolls is a quick, easy, and healthier way to enjoy this crispy Asian treat at home. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, the air fryer gives you perfect results every time—crispy, golden, and delicious. With a few simple steps and a few tips, you can elevate your egg roll game and enjoy them just the way you like them. So next time you’re craving something crispy and savory, reach for the frozen egg rolls and your air fryer for the ultimate snack experience!
Frozen Egg Rolls in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 frozen egg rolls any variety
- Cooking spray or a light coat of oil optional
- Dipping sauce optional
- Soy sauce optional, for serving
- Sweet and sour sauce optional, for serving
- Thai sweet chili sauce optional, for serving
- Sesame seeds optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place frozen egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- No need to thaw the egg rolls before cooking.
- For mini egg rolls, reduce the cooking time to 5-7 minutes.
- Leave space between egg rolls to ensure they cook evenly.
- Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model and egg roll size.
Nutritional Facts (Per Egg Roll):
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
