The Best Homemade Egg Rolls (Easy with Classic Flavors!) (2024)

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These Homemade Egg Rolls are a delightful treat made by wrapping a savory ground meat and vegetable filling into a thin, crispy pastry and frying it until it reaches golden perfection. It tastes even better than takeout but it’s a lot healthier and tastier!

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While there are countless variations of egg rolls, this recipe offers a classic and sure-fire technique that creates a satisfying appetizer or main course.

The key to making exceptional homemade egg rolls lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The filling is a harmonious blend of shredded vegetables, cooked ground meat and aromatic seasonings, which result in a delightful burst of umami with every bite.

The vegetables provide a refreshing crunch, while the meat adds a savory richness that compliments the delicate crispiness of the wrapper.

In order to achieve the perfect golden brown and crispy exterior, the egg rolls are fried until they are irresistibly crunchy. This method makes sure that the pastry is cooked through, sealing in the flavors and creating a delightful contrast to the tender interior.

The fried egg rolls can be served as a standalone appetizer, or they can be accompanied by a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce.

While making homemade egg rolls may seem challenging, this particular recipe simplifies the process and makes it accessible to even the most inexperienced cooks. With concise instructions, you can confidently create a batch of egg rolls that rivals those found in your favorite takeout restaurant.

Want to learn how to make this homemade egg rolls recipe? Then keep on reading.

Table of Contents
  • What are Homemade Egg Rolls?
  • What Makes This Homemade Egg Rolls Recipe Special?
  • What You Need to Make Homemade Egg Rolls at Home
  • How to Make Homemade Egg Rolls (Step-by-Step)
  • Tips for Making the Best Homemade Egg Rolls Ever
  • Serving Suggestions for Homemade Egg Rolls
  • Recipe Variation Ideas for Homemade Egg Rolls
  • How to Store Leftover Homemade Egg Rolls
  • Similar Recipes You'll Love
  • Recipe Card
  • The Best Homemade Egg Rolls (Easy with Classic Flavors!)
  • Comments

What are Homemade Egg Rolls?

Homemade egg rolls are a popular Chinese dish that consists of a crispy, fried wrapper filled with a mixture of vegetables, meat, and sometimes noodles. They are typically served with a dipping sauce such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce.

One of the best things about them is that they can be customized to suit individual preferences. The filling can include a variety of vegetables such as cabbage, green onions, carrots, and bean sprouts, as well as protein options like ground meat, chicken, pork, or shrimp. This versatility allows for endless flavor combinations and the ability to cater to dietary restrictions or preferences.

Another great aspect of homemade egg rolls is the crispy texture of the fried wrapper. The outer shell becomes golden and crunchy, providing a satisfying contrast to the tender filling inside. This combination of textures makes them enjoyable to eat and adds to the overall appeal of the dish.

Plus, homemade egg rolls can be a healthier alternative to store-bought or restaurant versions. By making them at home, you have control over the ingredients and can choose to use less oil or healthier cooking methods, such as baking or air frying.

Trust me, you’re going to absolutely love this super easy egg roll recipe!

What Makes This Homemade Egg Rolls Recipe Special?

Versatile: They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, making them perfect for customizing according to your taste. Whether you prefer classic vegetable fillings or want to experiment with different flavors like meat, shrimp, or chicken, these egg rolls can accommodate any combination.

Easy: This recipe is incredibly simple to follow, even for first-time cooks. The step-by-step instructions make sure that you will achieve crispy, golden brown egg rolls every time. The process of wrapping the egg rolls may take a bit of practice, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes a breeze.

Delicious: The combination of crispy, fried egg roll wrappers and flavorful fillings creates a delicious treat that is sure to please your taste buds. The savory fillings, such as cabbage, carrots, and onions, are sautéed to perfection and seasoned with delicious spices to add an extra burst of flavor.

Crowd-pleaser: They are an absolute hit at parties and gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for serving as appetizers, and their flavorful filling makes them a favorite among guests. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal event, these egg rolls are sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

Special: What sets this recipe apart from others is the homemade touch. While store-bought egg rolls can be convenient, nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own from scratch. The process allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the fillings to suit your preferences. The result is a dish that is truly special and made with love.

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What You Need to Make Homemade Egg Rolls at Home

All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this homemade egg rolls recipe at home. Let's look at them in more detail:

  • Ground beef: We will be needing some ground beef: it will provide a rich and savory flavor to the dish, adding depth and heartiness to every bite.
  • Cabbage head: We will also need a cabbage head. When cooked, it will become tender and slightly sweet, complementing the other ingredients and adding a lovely crunch to the dish.
  • Carrots: Next, we will be using carrots. They will help in adding a pop of color and subtle sweetness to the dish, while also providing a satisfying crunch.
  • Onion: We will also need an onion. It will release its natural sweetness when cooked, adding layers of flavor and depth to the dish.
  • Angel hair pasta: You’ll also need some angel hair pasta: it will cook to perfection, becoming tender and delicate, providing a light and fluffy texture to the dish.
  • Egg roll wrap: We will also need some egg roll wraps. When fried, they will become crispy and golden, adding a satisfying crunch to the dish.
  • Olive oil: Remember to add olive oil. It will coat the ingredients and help them cook evenly, while also adding a rich and smooth flavor to the dish.
  • Vegeta: We will also need some Vegeta. It will enhance the flavors of the dish, adding a savory and aromatic note that will make every bite more delicious.
  • Mrs. Dash: Next, we will be using Mrs. Dash to make this recipe: it will provide a blend of herbs and spices that will add a burst of flavor and elevate the dish to the next level.
  • Salt: We will also need to add some salt: it will enhance the flavors of the other ingredients, balancing their taste and bringing out their natural flavors.
  • Black ground pepper: Lastly, we will be needing black ground pepper. It will add a subtle heat and a touch of earthiness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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How to Make Homemade Egg Rolls (Step-by-Step)

Making these incredible homemade egg rolls is easier than you think. Here's how to make them at home step by step:

How to Cook the Meat

Heat a medium skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it starts to brown.

Once the meat is browned, reduce the heat to medium and season it with salt, pepper, Mrs. Dash, Vegeta, and garlic powder (optional).

Cook the seasoned meat for 5 minutes, stirring it every minute to guarantee even cooking. Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to cool.

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How to Cook the Pasta

In a small saucepan, bring half a pot of water to a boil.

While waiting for the water to boil, break the pasta into 1-inch length pieces.

Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Cook the pasta for 10 minutes, stirring it every 1-2 minutes to prevent sticking. After the pasta is cooked, drain it, rinse it with cold water, and set it aside to cool.

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How to Prep the Veggies

Now, prepare the vegetables by washing and shredding the cabbage head.

Next, prepare to heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and fry it for 15 minutes, stirring it every minute to prevent burning.

Remove the fried cabbage from the skillet and set it aside to cool.

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Now, peel and shred the carrots. Then add them to a medium skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Fry the carrots for 5-7 minutes, stirring them every 1-2 minutes.

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Once all the ingredients are cooled, add them to a large bowl and mix them together.

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How to Assemble Homemade Egg Rolls

To assemble the egg rolls, place an egg roll wrapper on a small cutting board and spoon 3 tablespoons of the mixture onto it. Fold and roll the wrapper into an egg roll shape.

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Now, heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place egg rolls in a single layer on the preheated skillet. Keep in mind that you should fry the egg rolls for 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.

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Let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade egg rolls!

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Tips for Making the Best Homemade Egg Rolls Ever

Prep work is key: Before you start cooking, make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.

Use medium heat: When cooking the egg rolls, make sure to heat the oil to a medium temperature. This will give the egg rolls a crispy exterior and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Try other types of oil: You can even try using different flavored oils to fry your egg rolls such as sesame oil or peanut oil.

Don’t overfill: When filling the egg roll wrappers, make sure not to overfill them. Too much filling can cause the wrappers to tear and make it difficult to roll them up properly.

Seal the edges: After filling the egg roll wrappers, make sure to seal the edges tightly. Use a bit of water or beaten egg to help seal the wrappers and prevent the filling from leaking out while frying.

Fry in small batches: When frying the egg rolls, it is best to fry them in small batches. This allows for better heat distribution and makes sure that they cook evenly.

Drain on paper towels: After frying the egg rolls, place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy and prevent them from becoming greasy.

Serve immediately: Egg rolls are best served immediately after frying. They can quickly become soggy if left to sit for too long, so make sure to serve them right away for the best texture and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions for Homemade Egg Rolls

  • Serve these homemade egg rolls as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. They are sure to impress your guests with their crispy exterior and delicious filling.
  • Pair these egg rolls with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. The combination of the savory egg rolls and the fluffy rice or noodles is a match made in heaven.
  • For a healthier option, serve these egg rolls with a side of mixed greens or a fresh salad. The crispiness of the egg rolls will complement the refreshing taste of the greens.
  • Create a dipping sauce station with a variety of sauces, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or spicy chili sauce. Let your guests customize their egg roll dipping experience.
  • Serve these egg rolls with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a well-balanced meal. The combination of the flavorful egg rolls and the crunchy vegetables will leave you satisfied and wanting more.

Recipe Variation Ideas for Homemade Egg Rolls

This delicious homemade egg rolls recipe is absolutely perfect as is, but if you're looking to change things up, here are a few variation ideas you can try:

Spicy Sriracha: Add a tablespoon of Sriracha sauce to the filling mixture for a spicy kick. This is perfect for those who love a little heat in their egg rolls.

Vegetable version: Replace the ground pork with a blend of finely chopped vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms. This is a great way to add more veggies to your diet and is equally delicious.

Sweet and Sour: Add a tablespoon of sweet and sour sauce to the filling mixture for a tangy twist. This variation is a crowd-pleaser and adds a unique flavor to the traditional egg roll.

Teriyaki Chicken: Replace the ground pork with cooked and shredded teriyaki chicken for a flavorful twist. This is a great option for those who prefer chicken over pork and adds a delicious flavor to the egg rolls.

Cheeseburger: Add a slice of cheese and a tablespoon of ketchup to the filling mixture for a cheeseburger-inspired egg roll. This is a fun and unique twist on the traditional egg roll and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I assemble the egg rolls?

To assemble the egg rolls, place three spoonfuls of the meat and vegetable filling onto a spring roll wrapper. Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll it up tightly. Use a bit of water to seal the edges of the wrapper.

Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?

Yes, you can use ground chicken or ground turkey instead of ground meat for the filling. You can also make vegetarian egg rolls by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables.

Can I bake the egg rolls instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the egg rolls instead of frying them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the egg rolls on a baking sheet. Brush them with oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

How to Store Leftover Homemade Egg Rolls

To store leftovers of homemade egg rolls, first, allow the cooked egg rolls to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Place the container or wrapped egg rolls in the refrigerator and store them for up to 3-4 days.

When ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to help regain their crispiness. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the egg rolls on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

You can also pop uncooked egg rolls in a freezer bag and freeze them for up to one month. This is a great way to store extra rolls if you have any!

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Recipe Card

The Best Homemade Egg Rolls (Easy with Classic Flavors!)

Valya's Taste of Home

These Homemade Egg Rolls feature a delicious homemade savory ground meat and vegetable filling you'll absolutely love! They taste even better than takeout!

5 from 7 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 hours hrs

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

15 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course Appetizers

Cuisine American

Servings 40 egg rolls

Ingredients

  • 2 lb. - ground beef (see my how to grind meat at home post)
  • 1 medium - cabbage head
  • 4 medium - carrots
  • 1 small - onion
  • ¼ lb. - angel hair pasta
  • 2 packs - egg roll wrap
  • 1 tsp. - Vegeta (if you don't have this ingredient then add extra Mrs. Dash seasoning)
  • 1 tsp. – Mrs. Dash seasoning
  • 1 tsp. - sea salt
  • ½ tsp. - black ground pepper
  • ½ cup of olive oil (for sautéing vegetables and egg rolls)

Read More

Instructions

How to Make Homemade Egg Rolls

    How to Cook the Meat

    • Heat a medium skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it starts to brown.

    • Once the meat is browned, reduce the heat to medium and season it with salt, pepper, Mrs Dash, and Vegeta.

    • Cook the seasoned meat for 5 minutes, stirring it every minute to guarantee even cooking. Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to cool.

    How to Cook the Pasta

    • In a small saucepan, bring half a pot of water to a boil.

    • While waiting for the water to boil, break the pasta into 1-inch length pieces.

    • Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and 1 teaspoon of salt.

    • Cook the pasta for 10 minutes, stirring it every 1-2 minutes to prevent sticking. After the pasta is cooked, drain it, rinse it with cold water, and set it aside to cool.

    How to Prep the Veggies

    • Now, prepare the vegetables by washing and shredding the cabbage head.

    • Next, prepare to heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and fry it for 15 minutes, stirring it every minute to prevent burning.

    • Remove the fried cabbage from the skillet and set it aside to cool.

    • Now, peel and shred the carrots. Then add them to a medium skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

    • Fry the carrots for 5-7 minutes, stirring them every 1-2 minutes.

    • Once all the ingredients are cooled, add them to a large bowl and mix them together.

    How to Assemble Homemade Egg Rolls

    • To assemble the egg rolls, place an egg roll wrapper on a small cutting board and spoon 3 tablespoons of the mixture onto it. Fold and roll the wrapper into an egg roll shape.

    • Now, heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Keep in mind that you should fry the egg rolls for 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.

    • Let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.

    • Enjoy your delicious homemade egg rolls!

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    This recipe was originally posted on September 2, 2016 (original picture below), and updated for a better user experience.The post may contain affiliate links. Read mydisclosure.

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