Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls Crispy & Delicious

Every Thanksgiving, my kitchen transforms into a hub of laughter, clinking utensils, and the irresistible smell of roasted turkey and herbed stuffing. One chilly November evening, as the sun dipped behind bare trees and the house was filled with stories and giggles, we gathered around the counter for something new Thanksgiving Egg Rolls made in the air fryer. The sizzle of the air fryer, the crispy golden finish on each egg roll, and that first bite a flaky shell giving way to layers of savory turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and the tang of cranberry turned my leftover strategy upside down. The look on my kids’ faces as they dipped their rolls into gravy was pure delight.

With these Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls, even the fussiest Thanksgiving leftovers from dinner become crave-worthy. Whether it’s your first time using an air fryer or you just want to make holiday magic last a little longer, this recipe promises you won’t look at your Thanksgiving dinner the same way again. Get ready to make traditions even tastier!

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

• An Easy Weeknight Meal Using Leftovers
  Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls turn your turkey, sides, and sauces into a quick and satisfying dish. Forget reheating multiple plates or dry sandwiches just 10 minutes in the air fryer, and you have a hot, crispy meal ready to enjoy.
• A Crowd-Pleasing Snack or Light Meal
  Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding the family before holiday errands, Air Fryer Egg Rolls are perfect for eating by hand. The nostalgic flavors combined with a crunchy shell make them a tasty crowd-pleaser.
• Healthier Alternative to Deep Frying
  Thanks to the air fryer, these egg rolls stay delightfully crispy with little to no added oil. It’s a lighter way to enjoy a classic treat without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Customizable to Suit Every Taste
  Mix in mashed sweet potatoes, swap turkey for roasted veggies, or add green beans Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls let you create the perfect filling for your preferences.
• Freezer-Friendly for Busy Days
  Prepare a batch ahead of time and freeze them. When hunger strikes, simply air fry from frozen for a convenient, satisfying meal.
• Makes Leftovers Exciting Again
  Kids love these, and adults appreciate the unexpectedly gourmet twist. Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls turn holiday leftovers into a crispy, comforting tradition you’ll want to repeat.
• Perfect For Sharing
  Serve these as an appetizer and watch them disappear quickly. Finger foods like these and savory ham and cheese empanadas always shine at holiday gatherings.

Ingredient Notes for Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

Foundation: Leftover Turkey, Stuffing, and Mashed Potatoes

The magic behind these Turkey and Stuffing Egg Rolls is in the filling. Use whatever leftover turkey you have, whether light or dark meat, chopped into small pieces. For the stuffing, choose a mix that isn’t too wet excess moisture can make the egg rolls soggy. Leftover mashed potatoes add creaminess and help bind the ingredients together.

For variety, you can swap mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes or roasted veggies. If your leftover stuffing feels dry, add a splash of broth to moisten it.

Creamy Parts: Gravy or Cream Cheese

Adding a dollop of leftover gravy or a bit of cream cheese keeps the filling rich and helps it hold together. Use about a tablespoon, or for a lighter option, substitute with Greek yogurt.

Aromatics and Add-Ins:

Enhance your Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls with chopped green beans, roasted carrots, or a spoonful of cranberry sauce for a tangy contrast. Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or parsley bring out classic Thanksgiving flavors. For a hint of spice, add a dash of black pepper or smoked paprika.

The Wrapper: Egg Roll Wrappers

These thin, square egg roll wrappers are perfect for folding and crisp beautifully in the air fryer. You’ll usually find them in the refrigerated produce section near tofu or fresh herbs. Avoid rice paper wrappers since they turn chewy when cooked. Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

Extras: Egg, Cooking Spray

To seal your Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls, use a beaten egg or a dab of water. A quick spritz of cooking spray helps give them a crackling golden finish.

Pro tip: Don’t overfill the wrappers about two heaping tablespoons per roll is just right to prevent bursting.

How to Make Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

Preparation

Start by setting aside your leftovers and letting them come to room temperature—this ensures the fillings heat evenly. Chop turkey and any large vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces. Arrange your stuffing and potatoes nearby for easy access. Beat one egg in a small bowl to use as a sealing glaze.

Prepare a clean work surface and lay out your egg roll wrappers, keeping them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Have a small spoon and a brush on hand for sealing.

If you’re new to rolling, try to fold egg roll once for practice before assembling all practice makes perfect.

Cooking Process

1. Assemble the Egg Rolls:
   Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean board with a corner facing you. Spoon two heaping spoonfuls of filling near the lower corner layer turkey, stuffing, potatoes, and any extras. Fold the egg roll bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll up snugly. Brush the final corner with beaten egg to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Set your air fryer to 375°F for the proper air fryer setting. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Air Fry:
   Arrange the egg rolls seam-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket avoid overcrowding. Lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking spray. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook 3 more minutes until golden brown (total cooking time: 13 minutes).
4. Check for Doneness:
   Your egg rolls are done when they’re crispy on all sides. If they look pale, add an extra 1–2 minutes.
5. Cool Slightly:
   Let the egg rolls cool for two minutes before serving they’ll be hot inside!

Finishing Touches & Serving Suggestions

Garnish your Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls with chopped herbs or a sprinkle of flaky salt. Slice them diagonally for a stylish, party-ready presentation.

Serve with dipping sauce options like leftover gravy, tangy cranberry sauce, or even a spicy mustard. For a festive holiday platter, pair with finger foods such as savory ham and cheese empanadas. To add a fresh contrast, include a bowl of mixed greens tossed with lemony vinaigrette.

Expert Cooking Tips for Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

• Don’t overfill the wrappers too much stuffing can cause them to burst and leak inside the air fryer.
• Warm the filling slightly before rolling to ensure even heating throughout.
• Seal each Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Roll securely with egg wash or water to prevent unraveling during cooking.
• Lightly spray all sides with cooking oil to help heat oil evenly and achieve a crisp, golden finish.
• Flip the egg rolls halfway through the cooking time for a crunchy exterior on every side.
• Allow the Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls to rest for a minute or two before eating, as the steam inside can be very hot.
• Cook in batches without overcrowding the air fryer basket; two rounds may be necessary for the crispiest results.
• If using a new air fryer, test one egg roll first since cooking time can vary between different air fryer models.

Storage & Freezing Tips for Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

• Store Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls leftovers in the fridge inside an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, arrange uncooked or cooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to zip-top bags or meal prep containers. Be sure to label and date them.
• Frozen Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls can be kept for up to 4 months only take out as many as you need at a time to maintain freshness.
• To reheat egg rolls, use the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes if refrigerated, or 10–12 minutes if frozen. This method keeps them crispy and hot inside.
• Planning ahead with Thanksgiving leftovers? Assemble the egg rolls in advance, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook perfect for stress-free entertaining or quick weekday snacks.

Variations and Substitutions for Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

• Vegetarian Twist: Skip the turkey and use extra roasted veggies or plant-based “turkey” to fill your Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls. Adding mushrooms brings an earthy, meaty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap in gluten-free egg roll wrappers (available at specialty stores) and use gluten-free stuffing to keep it safe for sensitive diets.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese or dairy-free mashed potatoes, and seal the rolls by brushing with plant milk instead of egg.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes into the filling, and spice up your dipping sauce with sriracha or spicy mustard.
• Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella inside each Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Roll before rolling. The cheese melts into the filling, adding extra comfort.
• Holiday Sweet: Spoon a bit of cranberry sauce or sweet potatoes mash into the center for a sweet-savory surprise that’s perfect for fall.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Double the batch and freeze uncooked egg rolls for quick, satisfying meals using leftovers. These make excellent Air Fryer recipes for post-holiday lunches, easy dinners, or unexpected guests.
• Low-Carb: For a lighter option, fill with lean turkey and greens, using minimal potato or stuffing for a low-carb twist.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls are easy to pair with a variety of delicious sides:

• Classic Green Salad: Fresh greens provide a crisp contrast that balances the richness of the egg rolls with brisk flavor and crunch.
• Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup makes a comforting meal starter, complementing the savory taste of the egg rolls.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and dippable, breadsticks add an extra layer of finger-food fun to any holiday gathering.
• Cranberry Jelly: A flavorful dipping sauce that adds a touch of sweetness and color, perfect for enhancing the festive vibe.
• Mulled Apple Cider: Warm cider brings comforting spice notes, making the entire meal feel more seasonal and inviting.
• Charcuterie Board: Pair with cheeses, nuts, and olives for a stylish holiday platter that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Feel free to mix and match these sides to suit your guests and occasion Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls are versatile enough to complement any festive spread.

FAQs about Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

Can I use different leftovers in Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls?
Yes! Turkey, ham, veggie sides, sweet potatoes, or any leftovers you have on hand work perfectly. Just combine flavors you enjoy and avoid fillings that are too wet to keep the rolls from becoming soggy.

How do I stop Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls from getting soggy?
Limit wet ingredients like gravy or cranberry sauce inside the rolls. Make sure to seal them tightly and don’t overcrowd the air fryer, so each egg roll crisps up evenly.

Can I make Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls ahead and reheat egg rolls?
Absolutely. You can assemble and refrigerate the egg rolls for up to 8 hours or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to serve, reheat egg rolls using the air fryer for the best crispy texture.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the egg rolls on a wire rack at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. While the cooking time is slightly longer and the air fryer setting can’t be replicated exactly, they’ll still get nicely crispy in the oven.

Are Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls healthy?
Compared to deep-fried snacks, these egg rolls use far less oil. Plus, since you control the filling, you can opt for lean proteins, add more veggies, or skip extra cheese to keep them lighter and healthier.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls are the cleverest way to bring your holiday feast back to life no more boring leftover sandwiches or soggy plates. These Air Fryer Egg Rolls are crispy on the outside and packed with all your favorite leftover flavors inside, making them an irresistible snack for any post-Thanksgiving meal. Grab your air fryer, gather your leftovers, and create your own twist on these delicious Thanksgiving Egg Rolls. If you try them, be sure to share how yours turned out or tag me in your foodie pics. Here’s to new traditions and warm, tasty memories one crispy bite at a time! 😊