Cooking has always been my way of unwinding, and these Air Fryer Shrimp Egg Rolls are one of my favorite go-to recipes. They’re crispy, golden, and packed with flavorful shrimp and vegetables that create the perfect balance of savory and crunchy in every bite. What I love most about these egg rolls is how quick and easy they are to make, thanks to the air fryer. There’s no need for deep-frying, which means less oil and mess—just deliciousness ready in minutes!
If you’re someone who loves indulging in restaurant-quality appetizers from the comfort of home, this recipe will hit all the right notes. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or craving a satisfying snack, these shrimp egg rolls are versatile, easy to customize, and sure to impress. Let’s dive into everything you need to make this recipe!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Egg Roll Wrappers: These thin sheets of dough are the foundation of every egg roll. They’re strong enough to hold the filling without breaking, yet crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Look for them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work perfectly for this recipe. I recommend using medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined, for a quick prep. Shrimp add a meaty, juicy element to the rolls.
Cabbage and Carrots: These shredded vegetables give the egg rolls a satisfying crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor. Pre-shredded mixes save time, or you can shred your own.
Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics add a burst of flavor that ties the shrimp and vegetables together. Fresh is best, but powdered versions work in a pinch.
Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce seasons the filling with salty umami goodness, enhancing all the other flavors.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nutty, fragrant note to the filling, making it even more irresistible.
Cornstarch Slurry: A simple mix of cornstarch and water is used to seal the egg rolls, ensuring they stay intact while cooking.
Cooking Spray: A light spritz of cooking spray ensures the egg rolls crisp up evenly in the air fryer without sticking.
Ingredients List
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 cup shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp Egg Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes until pink and fully cooked. Add the cabbage, carrots, garlic, and ginger, stirring for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then remove the mixture from the heat to cool.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner facing you (like a diamond). Place 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the edge with a cornstarch slurry made by mixing the cornstarch and water. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Air Fry the Egg Rolls
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Let the egg rolls cool for a minute before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce, for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overfill the wrappers: Overstuffed egg rolls are harder to seal and may burst during cooking. Stick to 2–3 tablespoons of filling per roll.
- Use pre-shredded veggies: Save time by using pre-packaged coleslaw mixes for the cabbage and carrots.
- Seal the edges well: Ensure your egg rolls stay intact by sealing the edges with a cornstarch slurry.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the egg rolls in batches if needed to allow even airflow and crisping.
- Serve immediately: These egg rolls are best enjoyed fresh and hot for maximum crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
What dipping sauces pair well with shrimp egg rolls?
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy peanut sauce are all excellent choices.
How do I store leftover egg rolls?
Store cooled egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze uncooked egg rolls?
Yes, you can freeze assembled egg rolls before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.