If you’re craving the satisfying crunch and savory filling of egg rolls but want a healthier alternative to frying, this baked egg roll recipe is exactly what you need. These egg rolls are packed with flavor, baked to crispy perfection, and super easy to make. Whether you’re prepping for a party, a family dinner, or just a snack, this recipe delivers on all fronts—flavor, texture, and simplicity.
In this post, I’ll guide you through making the perfect baked egg rolls step by step. You’ll also find tips for getting that golden crunch, variations to suit your taste, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s roll!
Table of contents
- Why You’ll Love Baked Egg Rolls
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Recipe
- Tips for Perfect Baked Egg Rolls
- Why Baking Is Better Than Frying for Egg Rolls
- Dipping Sauce Ideas for Baked Egg Rolls
- Tips for Rolling Egg Rolls Like a Pro
- Making Baked Egg Rolls Ahead for Parties
- Variations to Try
- What to Serve with Baked Egg Rolls
- FAQs About Baked Egg Rolls
- Nutritional Information (Per Egg Roll)
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Why You’ll Love Baked Egg Rolls
- Healthier alternative: Baking instead of frying cuts down on oil while keeping them crispy.
- Customizable fillings: From classic cabbage and pork to vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone.
- Great for meal prep: These egg rolls are freezer-friendly and reheat beautifully.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a fun appetizer.
If you enjoy experimenting with egg roll flavors, check out this Goat Cheese Jalapeño Egg Roll recipe for a creative twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make crispy, flavorful baked egg rolls:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground chicken, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (Napa or green cabbage work well)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (to help bind the filling)
For the Egg Rolls:
- 1 pack of egg roll wrappers (usually found in the refrigerated section)
- Cooking spray (to help them crisp up in the oven)
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the edges)
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Cook the Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the garlic, ginger, shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Cook for another minute until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you (like a diamond).
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll tightly, sealing the top corner with a dab of beaten egg. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Bake the Egg Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the baked egg rolls warm with your favorite dipping sauces like soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or spicy peanut sauce.
Tips for Perfect Baked Egg Rolls
- Don’t overfill: Using too much filling makes it harder to seal the egg rolls and can cause them to tear. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons per roll.
- Keep wrappers moist: Cover the egg roll wrappers with a damp paper towel while assembling to prevent them from drying out.
- Flip halfway through: Turning the egg rolls ensures they crisp evenly on all sides.
- Use cooking spray sparingly: A light mist is all you need to achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
Why Baking Is Better Than Frying for Egg Rolls
Baking egg rolls is not only healthier, but it’s also much easier and less messy than frying. By baking, you skip the hassle of dealing with hot oil and the lingering smell of frying in your kitchen. Baking also allows you to cook a larger batch at once, making it perfect for entertaining or meal prep. With the right techniques, like using cooking spray and flipping halfway, baked egg rolls turn out golden and crispy—just as satisfying as the fried version.
Dipping Sauce Ideas for Baked Egg Rolls
A great dipping sauce can elevate the flavors of your baked egg rolls. Classic choices like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce are always crowd-pleasers. For something creamy, try a spicy peanut sauce or sriracha mayo. If you want to add a citrusy kick, mix soy sauce with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a touch of honey. Offering a variety of dipping sauces lets everyone customize their egg roll experience.
Tips for Rolling Egg Rolls Like a Pro
Getting the perfect roll takes a little practice, but these tips will help you master it:
- Don’t overfill: Use only 2-3 tablespoons of filling to prevent tearing.
- Seal tightly: Brush the edges with beaten egg to ensure they don’t open during baking.
- Keep wrappers covered: To prevent drying out, keep unused wrappers under a damp paper towel while assembling.
Following these tips will ensure your baked egg rolls are neat, evenly cooked, and delicious every time.
Making Baked Egg Rolls Ahead for Parties
If you’re hosting a party, baked egg rolls are an excellent make-ahead option. Assemble them a day in advance, then store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. You can also freeze uncooked egg rolls for longer storage—just bake directly from frozen when needed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This convenience makes them a go-to choice for stress-free entertaining.
You can serve them alongside comforting sides like Crock-Pot Southern Green Beans to round out the meal.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Egg Rolls: Replace the meat with extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or bean sprouts.
- Spicy Egg Rolls: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili paste to the filling for a kick of heat.
- Breakfast Egg Rolls: Fill the wrappers with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese for a breakfast twist.
- Southwestern Egg Rolls: Use black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded chicken with taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex version.
What to Serve with Baked Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes and sauces. Here are a few ideas:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Fried Rice | Complements the savory flavors perfectly. |
| Asian Slaw | Adds a fresh, crunchy element to the meal. |
| Dipping Sauces | Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or hoisin sauce enhance the flavors. |
| Miso Soup | A light, warm side to balance the crisp egg rolls. |
| Steamed Dumplings | Make it a fun appetizer spread. |
For a fun appetizer spread, try pairing these baked egg rolls with other crowd-pleasers like Armadillo Eggs. Together, they’ll create a delicious and satisfying lineup for your guests.
FAQs About Baked Egg Rolls
To keep egg rolls crispy, bake them on a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet to allow even airflow. Use cooking spray lightly to help them brown without making them greasy. After cooking, avoid covering them tightly, as trapped steam can make them soggy. If reheating, use an oven or air fryer to restore their crunch.
Egg rolls typically have a thicker, doughier wrapper and are filled with a combination of meat and vegetables. They’re often deep-fried or baked for a crispy texture. Spring rolls, on the other hand, have a thinner wrapper made from rice paper or flour and water, and they can be served fresh (uncooked) or fried, depending on the recipe.
No, you don’t have to freeze egg rolls before cooking. However, if you’re making them ahead of time, freezing them uncooked can help preserve their shape and flavor. Cooked egg rolls can also be frozen and reheated later. Always bake or fry egg rolls directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
To prevent soggy egg rolls, avoid overfilling them and ensure the filling is cooked and not watery. Drain any excess moisture from the filling before assembling. Bake or fry them on a high temperature to quickly crisp the wrapper, and avoid placing cooked egg rolls on paper towels, which can trap steam.
For frying, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils ensure even cooking and don’t overpower the egg rolls’ flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Egg Roll)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked egg roll recipe delivers everything you love about traditional egg rolls—crispy wrappers, savory fillings, and bold flavors—without the guilt of frying. With endless customization options, these egg rolls are perfect for every occasion, from casual snacks to dinner parties. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them a convenient choice for meal prep.
So, grab some egg roll wrappers and let your creativity shine. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, baked egg rolls are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!
