Crab Cake Egg Rolls (Air Fryer Style)
Crab Cake Egg Rolls combine two amazing comfort foods—golden crab cakes and crispy egg rolls—into one showstopping appetizer. These crunchy, flavor-packed rolls are filled with sweet lump crabmeat, creamy mayo, Old Bay seasoning, and buttery Ritz crackers, then air-fried to perfection. Perfect for parties, game nights, or whenever you want a bite-sized indulgence with big flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning classic seafood into hand-held appetizers. These Crab Cake Egg Rolls check every box: crunchy outside, creamy inside, savory with just the right touch of lemon and spice. They’re easy to prep ahead, quick to cook in the air fryer, and crowd-pleasingly elegant. Whether you’re a crab cake fanatic or just love a good party food hack, this one’s for you.
Ingredients
- 1 lb crabmeat (preferably lump or claw, drained if canned)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tbsp lemon juice
- 6 egg roll wrappers
- ½ cup water (for sealing the rolls)
- Cooking spray or oil mist (for air frying)
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Crabmeat: Fresh is best, but canned or refrigerated pasteurized crab works great too.
- Ritz Crackers: Substitute with saltines, panko, or butter crackers.
- Old Bay: Use Cajun seasoning for a spicier Southern-style variation.
- Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
- Egg Roll Wrappers: These can typically be found in the refrigerated section near tofu.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Egg
- Mayonnaise
- Old Bay
- Worcestershire
- Lemon juice
- Chopped parsley
Fold in the crushed crackers and crabmeat gently. Chill for 15 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay out each wrapper diagonally on a clean surface.
Brush the edges lightly with water.
Spoon about 3 ounces of the crab mixture into the center.
Fold the bottom point up over the filling, then fold in the sides.
Roll tightly upward and press the tip to seal.
3. Cook in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spray the egg rolls with cooking oil.
Place them in a single layer in the basket.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overstuff: Too much filling can cause the wrappers to split.
- Seal well: A wet edge helps the roll stay closed during cooking.
- Flip halfway: This ensures even crisping on both sides.
- Make ahead: Roll them up and store uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve these Crab Cake Egg Rolls with:
- A spicy remoulade or classic tartar sauce
- A drizzle of sriracha mayo or lemon aioli
- Garnished with chopped scallions or parsley
Pair with:
- This Blueberry Lemonade for a zesty, refreshing contrast
- This Beer Cheese Dip as a bold, creamy side
- A cold glass of prosecco or a citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to crisp them back up.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked egg rolls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Easy Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wontons – Crispy, cheesy, and crowd-approved
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas – Fast and filling handheld fun
- Easy Turkey Wings – For a comfort-food main to pair with these rolls
- This Beer Cheese Dip – Dip your egg rolls or pair as part of a snack spread
Final Thoughts
Crab Cake Egg Rolls are a fusion food dream—easy to make, elegant to serve, and always a hit. Whether you’re prepping for game day or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Don’t forget to snap a pic and tag us when you make it!
📬 Tried it? Loved it? Let me know in the comments and follow ChefManiac.com for more crowd-pleasing, crave-worthy recipes!
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