Taco night is always a hit in our household, but have you ever thought about taking those tacos and transforming them into crispy, golden egg rolls? With the convenience of an air fryer, this recipe for Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls brings a crunchy twist to your favorite taco ingredients. Imagine seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and savory salsa wrapped up in a crispy shell. They make for a perfect snack, a fun dinner, or even an appetizer at your next gathering. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the steps of creating these delicious Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls from start to finish, including tips and variations to suit your tastes. I’ll also cover some common pitfalls, like ensuring they stay crispy and knowing what to pair them with for the ultimate experience.
What are Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls?
Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls are a fusion of two beloved dishes: tacos and egg rolls. The filling combines classic taco ingredients like seasoned ground beef, cheese, and salsa, while the egg roll wrapper provides that crispy, crunchy exterior. Instead of deep-frying them in oil, which can be messy and calorie-heavy, the air fryer creates a crispy texture with minimal oil, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. These egg rolls are packed with flavor, and the air fryer ensures they cook perfectly in just a few minutes.
Main Ingredients for Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the key ingredients you’ll need for these taco egg rolls. You can always adjust the recipe to match your personal preferences, but here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:
- Ground Beef – Typically, lean ground beef works best for taco meat. It provides the right texture and flavor without being too greasy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Taco Seasoning – A classic taco seasoning packet gives these egg rolls that signature taco flavor. You can also make your own seasoning if you prefer a custom blend.
- Salsa – Salsa adds a touch of tang and moisture to the filling. You can use your favorite type, whether it’s mild, medium, or hot. If you like a spicier kick, you could even opt for a spicy salsa or add some jalapeños to the mix.
- Mexican Cheese Blend – A blend of shredded cheeses, like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, creates a gooey, cheesy interior that complements the seasoned beef.
- Egg Roll Wrappers – These are available at most grocery stores in the refrigerated section. Choose vegan or regular wrappers, depending on your preference.
- Dipping Sauce – Guacamole, salsa, or queso are all great options for dipping your taco egg rolls. You could even make a homemade cilantro-lime dip for something extra special.
Benefits of Using the Air Fryer for Taco Egg Rolls
The air fryer isn’t just a trendy kitchen gadget – it’s a game-changer when it comes to making crispy, healthier versions of your favorite deep-fried foods. Here are some reasons why the air fryer is perfect for making taco egg rolls:
- Less Oil, Same Crispy Texture – The air fryer uses hot air to cook your food, which reduces the amount of oil needed to achieve that perfect crispiness. This means fewer calories and less grease, but all the flavor you crave.
- Fast and Convenient – Air fryers cook food quickly, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time hovering over the stove. These taco egg rolls can be ready in about 15 minutes, making them a quick weeknight dinner or party snack.
- No Mess – Traditional deep-frying can be messy, with splattering oil everywhere. The air fryer keeps things contained, so cleanup is a breeze.
How to Make Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls
Making these Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls is super easy. Follow these steps to create a batch that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- ¼ cup salsa (choose mild, medium, or hot)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 15 egg roll wrappers
- Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)
- Dipping sauce: guacamole, salsa, queso, or any sauce of your choice
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or other ground meat of choice) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring to ensure the beef cooks evenly, and drain any excess grease once it’s browned.Season the Meat
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and add the taco seasoning packet. Stir in 2 tablespoons of water, and then add ¼ cup of salsa. Let this mixture simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated and the flavors have melded together. Remove from heat.Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheese. You don’t need to wait for it to melt completely, but make sure the cheese is well distributed throughout the beef mixture. This creates that melty, cheesy filling inside each egg roll.Assemble the Egg Rolls
Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, with one corner pointing towards you like a diamond. Spoon about ¼ cup of the beef mixture into the center of the wrapper. Fold in the two opposing corners, then roll tightly towards the remaining corner. Before you seal the egg roll, dip your finger in water and brush it on the top corner to help it stick. Repeat this process for all the egg rolls.Air Fry the Egg Rolls
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spritz the egg rolls with olive oil spray on both sides. Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between them for air circulation. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.Air fry for about 7-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once the taco egg rolls are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls
While the recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips to ensure your taco egg rolls turn out perfect every time:
- Don’t Overstuff the Wrappers – If you add too much filling to the egg roll wrappers, it will be harder to roll them up tightly and they may burst open during cooking. Stick to about ¼ cup of filling per egg roll.
- Seal the Edges Well – Make sure the edges of the egg roll are sealed properly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking. Water is your best friend here – use a bit of water on the top corner before sealing.
- Flip Halfway for Even Crispiness – To get an even, golden-brown finish, flip the egg rolls halfway through cooking.
- Experiment with Fillings – Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can add black beans, corn, diced peppers, or even seasoned shredded chicken to the filling for added flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Taco Egg Rolls
These Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls are great on their own, but they’re also fantastic when paired with other dishes. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
- Mexican Rice – A side of fluffy Mexican rice pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the taco egg rolls.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans make for a satisfying side that complements the crispy egg rolls.
- Guacamole and Chips – If you’re serving these as a snack or appetizer, fresh guacamole with tortilla chips will make a perfect pairing.
- Fresh Salsa – A vibrant tomato-based salsa or even a spicy pineapple salsa would add a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich taco filling.
Variations and Customizations for Taco Egg Rolls
While the classic combination of beef, cheese, and salsa is a winning formula for these taco egg rolls, there’s plenty of room for customization. Here are a few variations that can help you make this recipe your own or accommodate different tastes and dietary needs.
1. Vegetarian Taco Egg Rolls
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily swap out the meat for plant-based ingredients. Consider using:
- Black Beans or Refried Beans: These provide a rich and hearty filling that mimics the texture of ground meat while adding a lovely earthiness to the rolls.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted peppers, zucchini, and onions offer a flavorful and colorful alternative to meat. Add some corn for extra sweetness.
- Tofu: For a protein-packed vegetarian option, tofu works well when seasoned with taco seasoning and crumbled into the filling.
2. Spicy Taco Egg Rolls
If you’re a fan of heat, there are several ways to spice up these egg rolls:
- Jalapeños: Dice fresh or pickled jalapeños and mix them into the beef or veggie filling for a spicy kick.
- Hot Salsa: Choose a salsa with a higher heat level, or add a bit of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the filling.
- Cayenne Pepper or Chili Powder: Adjust the seasoning with a dash of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder to make the filling zesty and fiery.
3. Low-Carb Taco Egg Rolls
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can make a few substitutions to make this recipe more suitable:
- Keto Egg Roll Wrappers: Traditional egg roll wrappers are high in carbs, but you can find keto-friendly alternatives made with almond flour or coconut flour.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: These lean proteins are naturally lower in fat than beef, which can help reduce the overall calories in the dish.
- Skip the Salsa: Some store-bought salsas contain added sugars, so opting for a homemade salsa or simply using diced tomatoes can help keep it low-carb.
4. Cheesy Taco Egg Rolls
If you love cheese (and who doesn’t?), feel free to go all out with the cheesy goodness:
- Extra Cheese: Add a variety of cheeses like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, and Monterey Jack to create a melty, gooey filling.
- Cheese Dip: For even more cheesy indulgence, serve your egg rolls with a warm cheese dip on the side.
How to Reheat Taco Egg Rolls
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), reheating these air fryer taco egg rolls is easy. The best method to keep them crispy is to use the air fryer again:
- Reheat in the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover egg rolls in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Air fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
- Oven Method: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can use the oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and bake the egg rolls for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and warmed through.
- Microwave: While the microwave is the quickest option, it won’t give you the same crispy texture. Place the egg rolls on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds. You can then pop them in the air fryer for a minute to crisp them up if needed.
Freezing Taco Egg Rolls
Want to make a batch ahead of time? You can freeze taco egg rolls to enjoy later:
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Follow the recipe up until the point where you’re ready to cook them.
- Freeze Individually: Place the un-cooked egg rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 2-3 hours until solid.
- Store: Once frozen, transfer the egg rolls to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Cook from Frozen: When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook from frozen by air frying at 390°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Taco Egg Rolls
Even though this recipe is relatively simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some tips to ensure your taco egg rolls turn out just right:
Using Too Much Filling
Overstuffing the egg rolls can make them harder to roll and increase the chances of them bursting open during cooking. Stick to about ¼ cup of filling per egg roll to maintain a crispy, well-sealed wrapper.Not Sealing the Wrappers Properly
If the edges of your egg rolls aren’t sealed properly, the filling can spill out during cooking. Make sure to brush the top corner of the wrapper with water before sealing it. This helps the wrapper stick together.Not Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer is key to achieving that crispy texture. If the air fryer is not hot enough when the egg rolls go in, they might turn out soggy instead of crispy.Crowding the Air Fryer Basket
For the best results, arrange the egg rolls in a single layer, leaving space between each one. This allows the hot air to circulate around them and ensures an even crisp.Not Flipping Halfway Through
The air fryer works by circulating hot air, but flipping the egg rolls halfway through ensures they get golden and crispy on both sides. Don’t skip this step!
Nutritional Breakdown for Taco Egg Rolls
It’s always good to know what you’re eating, so here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content of one Air Fryer Taco Egg Roll (based on the ingredients listed above):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 232 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Protein | 16g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 477mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
While these egg rolls do have a decent amount of fat and calories, the air fryer version is a much healthier alternative to deep-frying, which helps keep them light yet satisfying.
Why You Should Try Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls
If you’re still on the fence about trying this recipe, here are a few more reasons why these Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls should be on your to-make list:
1. Quick and Easy
One of the biggest perks of making taco egg rolls in the air fryer is the speed. With minimal prep time and a cooking time of just 7-8 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or just making a snack for yourself, this recipe won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.
2. Perfect for Meal Prep
Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls are a great option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch of them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for later. They reheat beautifully, and having a stash of these crispy treats on hand can make lunch or dinner a breeze.
3. Healthier Alternative to Deep Frying
Traditional egg rolls are deep-fried in oil, which adds extra fat and calories. Air frying, on the other hand, uses little to no oil, making this a healthier alternative. You get all the crispy, golden texture without the excess grease, making it a guilt-free way to indulge in your favorite flavors.
4. Family-Friendly
This recipe is a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They’ll love rolling up the egg rolls, and it’s an easy meal to customize based on their preferences. You can make a batch with beef for the meat-lovers, and another with black beans or cheese for the vegetarians. Plus, they can pick their own dipping sauces, which makes the meal even more fun!
5. Perfect for Entertaining
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a game day party, or a taco night, these Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls are a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to serve, and you can set up a dipping sauce station with salsa, guacamole, and queso for your guests to enjoy. Their crispy exterior and flavorful interior will definitely be a hit at your next event.
Common Questions About Air Fryer Taco Egg Rolls
You might have a few questions about the recipe, so let’s address some of the most common ones.
1. Can I Use Frozen Egg Roll Wrappers?
Yes! You can use frozen egg roll wrappers, but make sure to thaw them before using them. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 10-15 seconds to soften them up, making them easier to roll.
2. Can I Make Taco Egg Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the taco egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to cook, pop them into the air fryer and cook as directed.
3. Can I Make These with a Different Protein?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even seasoned pulled pork. For a vegetarian version, black beans, lentils, or even tofu work wonderfully as a filling.
4. Do I Need to Use Salsa?
While salsa adds great flavor and moisture to the filling, it’s not absolutely necessary. If you prefer, you can use a bit of tomato paste or skip the salsa entirely. Just be mindful that the filling might be a bit drier without it, so you may need to add a little more seasoning or moisture.
5. Can I Make Taco Egg Rolls in the Oven?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make these taco egg rolls in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They may not be as crispy as when cooked in the air fryer, but they’ll still be delicious!
