Easy Air Fryer Spring Rolls

January 21, 2025

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These Air Fryer Spring Rolls are one of our favorite recipes to make for when we are craving spring rolls but want something lighter and not deep fried. Gluten-free, dairy-free and delicious!

Spring rolls are a universal favorite, often enjoyed as a delicious appetizer or a light meal. But when fried in oil, they can quickly become less healthy. That’s where the air fryer comes in! With minimal oil and a whole lot of flavor, air fryer spring rolls are the perfect solution for anyone craving crispy, golden rolls without the guilt. In this blog post, we’ll guide you step-by-step to make the best air fryer spring rolls at home.

Why Choose the Air Fryer for Spring Rolls?

The air fryer is a game-changer for home cooking. It uses hot air circulation to mimic the results of deep-frying—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—but with significantly less oil. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love making spring rolls in the air fryer:

Healthier Cooking: You’ll use a fraction of the oil compared to traditional frying.
Less Mess: No dealing with pots of hot oil.
Consistency: Even cooking ensures golden-brown, crispy rolls every time.
Quick & Convenient: Preheating takes just minutes, and the rolls cook in under 10 minutes.

What ingredients you need to make these spring rolls:

Olive oil – or use sesame oil for more flavor
Garlic cloves – added for flavor
Mushrooms – optional if you don’t love mushrooms, sub another veggie. Just make sure it isn’t too watery after being cooked
Ground meat – I use ground turkey, chicken, beef or pork
Shredded cabbage – red or green cabbage. I buy pre-shredded at the store
Shredded carrots – I buy already shredded
Green onions – thinly sliced green tips from the scallions
Coconut aminos – or use soy sauce if you prefer
Rice vinegar – added for flavor
Tapioca or arrowroot flour – or use cornstarch. Helps evaporate the liquid!
Spring roll wrappers – these are great to have on hand for

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

The filling is the heart of any great spring roll. Follow these steps to create a flavorful mixture:

Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped mushrooms, letting them brown on one side for about 5 minutes without stirring. Once browned, mix and cook until the liquid has evaporated and the mushrooms are tender.
Cook the Meat:
- Add your ground meat to the skillet. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking the meat apart, until it is mostly cooked through.
Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and green onions.
- Add soy sauce and rice vinegar. Mix well.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cabbage and carrots are softened.
Cool the Filling:
- Transfer the filling to a baking sheet or bowl and let it cool completely. To speed up the process, place it in the refrigerator.

2. Assemble the Spring Rolls

Once your filling is cool, it’s time to assemble the spring rolls:

Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers:
- Fill a shallow bowl with water.
- Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10 seconds, just enough to soften it.
- Place the softened wrapper on a clean cutting board.
Add the Filling:
- Place a heaping spoonful of the cooled filling onto the bottom third of the wrapper.
Roll the Spring Rolls:
- Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it tightly from the bottom to the top until sealed.
- Repeat the process until all the filling is used.

3. Air Fry the Spring Rolls

Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 380°F and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes.
Prepare the Basket:
- Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Spring Rolls:
- Place the spring rolls in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Spray the tops of the spring rolls with avocado or olive oil spray.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Tips for Perfect Spring Rolls:

Don’t Overfill: Overstuffed spring rolls can tear during rolling or cooking.
Cool the Filling: Hot filling can cause the wrappers to tear, so ensure it’s completely cool before assembling.
Work Quickly: Once the rice paper is softened, it’s best to assemble the spring roll immediately to prevent it from drying out.
Avoid Crowding: Leave space between the spring rolls in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer spring rolls are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Pair them with these dipping sauces for an extra burst of flavor:

Classic Soy Sauce Dip: Mix soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Peanut Sauce: Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey or maple syrup.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, it’s a crowd favorite.

Storing and Reheating

To Store: Place leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Why These Air Fryer Spring Rolls Are a Must-Try

Not only are these spring rolls healthier than traditional fried versions, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. The combination of crunchy vegetables, savory meat, and a crispy wrapper is irresistible. Plus, using the air fryer means you’ll enjoy all the flavor and texture of fried spring rolls without the mess or excess oil.

Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or just looking for a delicious snack, these air fryer spring rolls are guaranteed to impress. Give them a try, and let us know how they turn out!