Healthy Air Fryer Cheesesteak Egg Rolls – No Deep Frying
Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy shell that gives way to tender, juicy steak and melted cheese – that’s exactly what these air fryer cheesesteak egg rolls deliver! These golden beauties combine the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the satisfying crunch of an egg roll wrapper.
They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal prep time, and are perfect for busy weeknight dinners or game day snacks. Just like our popular air fryer mozzarella sticks, these Air Fryer cheesesteak egg rolls prove that homemade comfort food can be both quick and delicious!
What is an Air Fryer Cheesesteak Egg Roll?
Ever wondered what happens when Philadelphia’s most famous sandwich meets Asian-inspired crispy perfection? You get these incredible air fryer cheesesteak egg rolls! Why are they called egg rolls when there’s no egg in the wrapper?
The mystery remains, but one thing’s certain – these beauties are pure genius. They’re basically a cheesesteak’s cooler, crispier cousin that decided to dress up for a party. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these egg rolls are definitely taking the express route! Ready to roll up some magic in your kitchen?
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cheesesteak Egg Roll Recipe
Unbeatable Flavor Combination
These egg rolls pack all the savory goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak into one perfect bite. The tender ribeye steak mingles with sautéed onions and bell peppers, while creamy cheese sauce binds everything together. Each roll bursts with that authentic cheesesteak flavor you crave.
Budget-Friendly Home Cooking
Making these at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a restaurant. A single batch feeds the whole family for less than $15, compared to $8-12 per serving at most establishments. You control the quality of ingredients and can make them exactly how you like them.
Irresistible Texture and Toppings
The air fryer creates an incredibly crispy exterior that shatters with each bite, revealing the warm, gooey interior. Top them with spicy mayo, ranch dressing, or even more cheese sauce for an extra indulgent experience. Unlike our air fryer jalapeño poppers, these have a more substantial filling that makes them perfect as a main dish. Why not give them a try tonight and taste the difference homemade makes?
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Quick Overview
These air fryer cheesesteak egg rolls are surprisingly simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying to eat. The key to their success lies in the perfect balance of tender steak, melted cheese, and crispy vegetables all wrapped in a golden egg roll wrapper.
The best part? They’re ready in just 15 minutes of active cooking time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute appetizers.
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 8 egg rolls
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
- 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 8 egg roll wrappers
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 8 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Cooking spray for air fryer
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the sliced steak to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until just browned. Season with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you. Place about 1/4 cup of the steak mixture in the center, then top with one slice of cheese. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, fold in the sides, then roll tightly toward the top corner. Brush the top corner with beaten egg to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Place egg rolls seam-side down in the basket, leaving space between each roll. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook another 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Serve Immediately
Remove from air fryer and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. The filling will be extremely hot, so be careful when biting into them!
What to Serve Air Fryer Cheesesteak Egg Rolls With
These versatile egg rolls pair beautifully with various sides and dips. Serve them with creamy ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic cheese sauce for dipping.
For a complete meal, pair them with crispy french fries, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad. They also make excellent appetizers alongside buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks, or loaded potato skins for game day spreads.
Consider serving them with pickled jalapeños, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture contrast.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Don’t Overfill the Wrappers
Use only about 1/4 cup of filling per egg roll. Too much filling will cause the wrappers to burst during cooking, creating a mess in your air fryer.
Keep Wrappers Covered
Egg roll wrappers dry out quickly. Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp towel while assembling to prevent cracking.
Seal Properly
Make sure to brush the edges with beaten egg and press firmly to seal. Poor sealing leads to filling leaking out during cooking.
Don’t Skip the Spray
Lightly spraying the egg rolls with cooking oil ensures even browning and maximum crispiness. Without it, they may turn out pale and less appealing.
Cook in Batches
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Instructions
These egg rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap each cooled egg roll individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Methods
For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also use a conventional oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make the wrapper soggy.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can assemble the egg rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and air fry when ready to serve. Add an extra minute or two to the cooking time if cooking from cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone and American cheese are traditional, you can use cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure to use cheese that melts well.
What’s the best cut of steak to use?
Ribeye works best due to its tenderness and flavor, but you can substitute with sirloin, strip steak, or even leftover roast beef. The key is slicing it very thin against the grain.
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake them in a 425°F oven for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. For deep frying, heat oil to 350°F and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden.
Why are my egg rolls not crispy enough?
Make sure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket and that you’re using cooking spray. Also, ensure your air fryer is properly preheated before adding the egg rolls.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The steak and vegetable mixture can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before assembling the egg rolls.
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
Feel free to add mushrooms, jalapeños, or different colored bell peppers. Some people enjoy adding a small amount of cheese whiz mixed into the filling for extra creaminess.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 egg roll) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Creative Variations to Try
Chicken Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Substitute the beef with seasoned chicken breast for a lighter option. Cook the chicken with the same seasonings for consistent flavor.
Vegetarian Version
Replace the meat with sliced portobello mushrooms and add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Use vegetarian cheese alternatives if desired.
Spicy Version
Add jalapeños to the filling and use pepper jack cheese. Serve with spicy ranch or chipotle mayo for extra heat.
Breakfast Style
Use scrambled eggs instead of steak and add breakfast sausages. Perfect for brunch gatherings!
Pro Chef Secrets
The secret to restaurant-quality egg rolls lies in properly draining the filling. After cooking your steak and vegetables, let the mixture sit in a fine-mesh strainer for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture. This prevents soggy wrappers and ensures maximum crispiness.
Another professional tip is to double-wrap particularly juicy fillings. Use a thin layer of the egg roll wrapper inside your main wrapper for extra protection against leaks.
For the ultimate indulgence, brush the cooked egg rolls with garlic butter immediately after air frying. This adds an extra layer of flavor that will have your guests asking for the recipe!
These air fryer cheesesteak egg rolls prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can create restaurant-quality appetizers that will impress family and friends alike. So fire up that air fryer and get ready to enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious!
