Easy Air Fryer Cabbage Egg Rolls in Under 30 Minutes

Craving that satisfying crunch of restaurant-style egg rolls without the guilt? These air fryer cabbage egg rolls deliver incredible crispiness with 75% less oil than traditional frying. Packed with tender cabbage, savory seasonings, and wrapped in golden perfection, they’re ready in just 20 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, gamae day gatherings, or meal prep, these egg rolls prove that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Just like our popular air fryer spring rolls, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

What Are Air Fryer Cabbage Egg Rolls?

Ever wonder why we call them “egg rolls” when there’s barely any egg involved? The mystery continues! These crispy bundles of joy are essentially cabbage and vegetables wrapped in thin pastry, then air-fried to golden perfection.

They say the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and these beauties definitely deliver. The air fryer gives you that coveted restaurant-quality crunch without standing over a pot of bubbling oil. Ready to become the egg roll champion of your household? Let’s get rolling!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cabbage Egg Rolls Recipe

Restaurant Quality at Home

Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy egg roll, hearing that satisfying crunch, then tasting the savory, ginger-kissed cabbage filling. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this recipe. The air fryer circulates hot air around each roll, creating an even, golden-brown exterior that rivals any takeout spot. No soggy bottoms, no greasy fingers—just pure, crunchy satisfaction.

Budget-Friendly and Healthy

Making air fryer cabbage egg rolls at home saves you serious money compared to ordering takeout. A head of cabbage costs just a few dollars and makes dozens of egg rolls. Plus, you’re using a fraction of the oil you’d need for deep frying, cutting calories while keeping all the flavor. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your waistline.

Customizable and Versatile

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Add ground pork, shrimp, or keep it vegetarian. Spice it up with sriracha or keep it mild for the kids. Love our air fryer wontons? You’ll obsess over these egg rolls. They’re perfect as appetizers, snacks, lunch box additions, or even a light dinner with rice. Make a big batch and freeze them for those “I need food NOW” moments.

Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, these air fryer cabbage egg rolls belong in your regular rotation. The combination of convenience, health benefits, and amazing taste makes them irresistible. Ready to impress everyone at your next gathering? Let’s dive into making these crispy delights!

How to Make Air Fryer Cabbage Egg Rolls

Quick Overview

These air fryer cabbage egg rolls combine simplicity with incredible flavor. The process is straightforward: prepare a savory cabbage filling, wrap it in egg roll wrappers, then air fry to crispy perfection. The secret lies in the perfectly seasoned filling and the air fryer’s ability to create that restaurant-style crunch. Each bite delivers a satisfying texture contrast between the crispy wrapper and tender filling.

Time Breakdown:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Makes: 12-14 egg rolls

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Cabbage Egg Rolls

For the Filling:

4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about ½ small head)
1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
3 green onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
½ teaspoon white pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for sautéing)

For Assembly:

12-14 egg roll wrappers (thawed if frozen)
1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For Serving:

Sweet chili sauce
Soy sauce
Duck sauce
Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetable Filling

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn them. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften but still retain some crunch. The cabbage should reduce in volume by about half.

Step 2: Season the Filling

Pour the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar over the cooked vegetables. Sprinkle in the white pepper and salt. Add the sliced green onions and toss everything together for another minute. The mixture should be well-coated and aromatic. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more soy sauce for saltiness or a pinch of sugar for balance. Transfer the filling to a colander or strainer placed over a bowl. Let it cool for 10 minutes and drain any excess liquid. This step is crucial for preventing soggy egg rolls.

Step 3: Set Up Your Rolling Station

Lay out a clean, dry workspace. Place the egg roll wrappers on one side, keeping them covered with a slightly damp towel to prevent drying. Put the cooled filling in a bowl nearby. Beat the egg in a small dish—this acts as your “glue.” Have a small brush or your finger ready for applying the egg wash. Position the wrappers like diamonds, with one corner pointing toward you.

Step 4: Fill and Roll the Egg Rolls

Place one wrapper on your work surface with a corner pointing toward you. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of the wrapper, forming a horizontal log shape. Don’t overfill or they’ll burst during cooking. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, tucking it underneath. Fold the left and right corners toward the center, creating an envelope shape. Brush the top corner with beaten egg. Roll tightly away from you, keeping the filling compact. Press the egg-washed corner to seal. Set aside seam-side down and repeat with remaining wrappers.

Step 5: Prep the Egg Rolls for Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. While it heats, lightly spray or brush each egg roll with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps them achieve that golden, crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference between pale and beautifully bronzed egg rolls.

Step 6: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one for air circulation. Don’t crowd them or they won’t crisp evenly. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to work in batches. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through at the 6-minute mark. They’re done when golden brown and crispy all over. The wrappers should crackle when tapped.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Transfer the hot egg rolls to a serving platter. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before biting in—the filling will be extremely hot. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces arranged in small bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra sliced green onions if desired. These are best enjoyed fresh and hot, when the contrast between crispy wrapper and tender filling is at its peak.

What to Serve Air Fryer Cabbage Egg Rolls With

Asian-Inspired Sides:

Fried rice or cauliflower fried rice for a low-carb option
Hot and sour soup or egg drop soup
Asian cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing
Edamame with sea salt
Vegetable lo mein or chow mein

Dipping Sauces:

Sweet chili sauce (the classic choice)
Soy sauce mixed with rice vinegar and sesame oil
Duck sauce for sweetness
Spicy mayo (mix mayo with sriracha)
Peanut sauce for a Thai twist
Chinese hot mustard for heat lovers

Beverage Pairings:

Jasmine or green tea (hot or iced)
Light beer or crisp white wine
Sparkling water with lime
Thai iced tea for something sweet

Complete Meal Ideas: Serve 3-4 egg rolls per person as an appetizer before orange chicken or beef and broccoli. For a lighter meal, pair 5-6 egg rolls with a fresh Asian salad featuring mandarin oranges, almonds, and sesame dressing. They’re also fantastic as part of an Asian tapas spread alongside dumplings, potstickers, and crab rangoon.

Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Cabbage Egg Rolls

Drain Your Filling Thoroughly

The number one cause of soggy egg rolls is excess moisture in the filling. After cooking your cabbage mixture, always let it drain in a colander for at least 10 minutes. For extra insurance, press it gently with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove any remaining liquid. This simple step ensures crispy, not steamy, egg rolls.

Don’t Overfill the Wrappers

It’s tempting to stuff as much filling as possible, but restraint pays off. Use only 2-3 tablespoons of filling per wrapper. Overstuffed egg rolls are difficult to seal properly and often burst open during cooking, creating a mess in your air fryer. Leave about an inch of space around the filling for proper folding.

Master the Rolling Technique

Keep the roll tight as you wrap. Loose rolls create air pockets that lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. After folding the bottom corner, pull it back toward you slightly before continuing to roll, keeping tension on the wrapper. This creates a compact, neat roll that cooks evenly.

Use Fresh Wrappers

Old, dried-out egg roll wrappers crack and tear easily. Always check the expiration date and look for wrappers that feel pliable. If your wrappers seem dry, place a damp towel over them while you work. Never refreeze thawed wrappers—they become brittle and impossible to work with.

Spray Oil Is Essential

Even though it’s an air fryer, you still need a light coating of oil for browning and crispiness. Invest in a good oil sprayer or use cooking spray. Brush on olive oil if you prefer. Don’t skip this—ungreased egg rolls turn out pale and tough instead of golden and crispy.

Avoid Overcrowding

Air circulation is key to air fryer success. Leave at least half an inch between each egg roll in the basket. Crowded egg rolls steam instead of crisp, and you’ll end up with unevenly cooked results. Better to cook in batches than compromise texture.

Flip Halfway Through

Set a timer for the halfway point and flip each egg roll for even browning. The side touching the basket browns faster, so flipping ensures both sides get equally crispy. Use tongs and be gentle to avoid tearing the wrapper.

Adjust for Your Air Fryer Model

Air fryers vary in power and design. Start checking your egg rolls at the 8-minute mark during your first batch. Some models cook faster and might need only 10 minutes total, while others require the full 12-14 minutes. Take notes for next time.

Freeze Extras Before Cooking

These freeze beautifully! Arrange uncooked egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Transfer to a freezer bag for storage. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time. No thawing necessary—they go straight from freezer to air fryer.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage:

Cooked egg rolls stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Let them cool completely before storing—never seal hot egg rolls in a container or condensation will make them soggy. Place them in an airtight container with paper towels layered between them to absorb any moisture. Store the dipping sauces separately.

Freezing Uncooked Egg Rolls:

This is the best method for meal prep! Assemble the egg rolls completely, then arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet without touching. Freeze for 2 hours until solid. Transfer to freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and cooking instructions. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, place frozen egg rolls directly in the air fryer and add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

Freezing Cooked Egg Rolls:

While less ideal than freezing uncooked ones, it works in a pinch. Cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for 1-2 months but may lose some crispiness. Expect a slightly softer texture when reheated.

Reheating Methods:

The air fryer is your best friend for reheating. Preheat to 350°F and cook refrigerated egg rolls for 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy again. For frozen cooked egg rolls, reheat at 350°F for 6-8 minutes. You can also use a conventional oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes on a wire rack. Avoid the microwave—it turns the wrappers chewy and rubbery.

Maintaining Crispiness:

The secret to crispy reheated egg rolls is removing moisture and reintroducing heat. Always reheat in a single layer with space for air circulation. A light spray of oil before reheating helps restore the golden exterior. Never stack egg rolls while reheating or serving hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Wet Vegetables

Cabbage releases water as it cooks, so never skip the draining step. If your filling seems watery after cooking, spread it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess moisture. Wet filling is the primary culprit behind soggy, disappointing egg rolls that fall apart.

Rolling Too Loosely

Loose egg rolls create air pockets that fill with steam during cooking. This leads to uneven texture and potential bursting. Always roll firmly, keeping tension on the wrapper as you go. A tight roll cooks evenly and holds its shape beautifully.

Forgetting to Seal Properly

An inadequate seal means your filling escapes during cooking, creating a mess. Always use beaten egg as your adhesive—water doesn’t work as well. Brush the egg wash generously on all edges that will touch, and press firmly to seal. Test the seal by gently tugging on the corner before cooking.

Skipping the Oil Spray

Some people assume “air fryer” means zero oil needed. Wrong! A light coating of oil is essential for browning and crispiness. Without it, you’ll get pale, tough egg rolls that lack that signature crunch. Just a light spray makes all the difference.

Cooking at the Wrong Temperature

Too hot and the wrappers burn before the filling heats through. Too cool and they never crisp up. The sweet spot is 370-380°F. If your air fryer runs hot, start at 370°F. If it’s less powerful, bump it to 380°F. Learn your machine’s quirks through trial and error.

Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheating ensures immediate sizzle when the egg rolls hit the basket. This jump-starts the crisping process. A cold air fryer means the wrappers gradually warm up, potentially becoming soggy before they crisp. Always preheat for 3-5 minutes.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the most common air fryer mistake across all recipes. Crowded food steams rather than crisps because hot air can’t circulate. Cook in batches if necessary—it only takes a few extra minutes and the results are exponentially better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make air fryer cabbage egg rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the egg rolls completely, then arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding just 2-3 minutes to the cooking time. This makes them perfect for entertaining or quick weeknight dinners.

What’s the best wrapper for air fryer egg rolls?

Standard egg roll wrappers work perfectly. Look for them in the refrigerated or frozen section near tofu and Asian vegetables. Spring roll wrappers (rice paper) are different and won’t work for this recipe—they’re too thin and delicate. If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, wonton wrappers can work in a pinch for mini versions.

How do I keep egg rolls from getting soggy?

The key is removing excess moisture from your filling before wrapping. After cooking the vegetables, drain them thoroughly in a colander for 10 minutes. Press gently with paper towels if needed. Also, make sure to spray the egg rolls with oil before air frying—this helps create that moisture-resistant crispy barrier.

Can I use a different vegetable besides cabbage?

Yes! Try bok choy, napa cabbage, or even coleslaw mix. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, bean sprouts, or water chestnuts. Just make sure to cook and drain any vegetables thoroughly before wrapping. Higher water content vegetables need extra draining time.

Do air fryer cabbage egg rolls need to be flipped?

Yes, flipping halfway through ensures even browning on all sides. Set a timer for 6 minutes, then use tongs to gently turn each egg roll. This gives you that beautiful golden color all around instead of one pale side.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to?

375°F (190°C) is ideal for egg rolls. This temperature is hot enough to crisp the wrapper quickly but not so hot that it burns before the filling heats through. If your air fryer runs hot, try 370°F. If it’s less powerful, go up to 380°F.

Can I add protein to these egg rolls?

Definitely! Ground pork, chicken, or turkey work beautifully. Cook and crumble ½ pound of meat, then mix with the vegetables. Cooked shrimp (chopped small) is another excellent addition. Just ensure any protein is fully cooked before wrapping.

Why did my egg rolls burst open?

This usually happens from overfilling, inadequate sealing, or rolling too loosely. Use only 2-3 tablespoons of filling, seal all edges with beaten egg, and roll tightly. Also check that your filling isn’t too wet—excess moisture creates steam that can burst the wrappers.

How many egg rolls can I cook at once?

This depends on your air fryer size. Most standard models hold 6-8 egg rolls in a single layer. Don’t stack or crowd them—air circulation is essential for crispiness. Cooking in batches takes a few extra minutes but delivers much better results.

Can I make these in a regular oven instead?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place egg rolls on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (for air circulation). Spray with oil and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as air-fried, but they’ll still be delicious.

Are air fryer cabbage egg rolls healthy?

Compared to deep-fried egg rolls, absolutely! They use about 75% less oil while still achieving great crispiness. The cabbage filling is low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. One egg roll contains approximately 80-100 calories, depending on wrapper size.

What’s the difference between egg rolls and spring rolls?

Egg rolls use a wheat-based wrapper (similar to wonton wrappers) and are typically cooked before serving. Spring rolls use thin rice paper wrappers and are often served fresh without cooking. The fillings can be similar, but the texture and preparation methods differ significantly.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Egg Roll (1/12 of recipe)
Calories	95
Total Fat	2.5g
Saturated Fat	0.5g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	245mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	1.5g
Sugars	1g
Protein	3g
Vitamin A	35% DV
Vitamin C	20% DV
Calcium	2% DV
Iron	6% DV

Note: Nutrition information is approximate and based on standard ingredients. Values may vary based on specific products used and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These air fryer cabbage egg rolls prove that healthy cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. The air fryer delivers that restaurant-quality crunch we all crave while using a fraction of the oil. They’re incredibly versatile—serve them as appetizers at your next party, pack them in lunch boxes, or make them the star of a lighter dinner. The best part? They’re completely customizable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

The secret to success lies in the preparation: well-drained filling, proper wrapping technique, and not overcrowding your air fryer basket. Master these basics and you’ll be turning out perfect egg rolls every single time.

Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation. Make a double batch and freeze half for those busy days when you need something delicious fast. Your future self will thank you!

Ready to experience the magic of homemade air fryer cabbage egg rolls? Gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready for some seriously satisfying crunch. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your creation—we’d love to see how yours turn out!

Happy cooking, and may your egg rolls always be crispy! 🥢