Homemade Shrimp Egg Rolls Recipe – Crispy and Delicious

Few things are as satisfying as biting into a crispy, golden-brown egg roll packed with flavorful shrimp and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, a fun snack, or a side dish to complement an Asian-inspired meal, this shrimp egg rolls recipe is a must-try.

Making egg rolls at home may seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think. With the right ingredients and a few simple techniques, you’ll be rolling and frying like a pro in no time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from preparing the filling to mastering the perfect roll. We’ll also explore different cooking methods, including deep-frying, baking, and air frying, so you can choose the best option for your taste and dietary preferences.

And of course, no egg roll experience is complete without a dipping sauce! We’ll share the best sauces to pair with your homemade shrimp egg rolls, along with tips for storage and reheating.

Introduction to Shrimp Egg Rolls

What Are Shrimp Egg Rolls?

A shrimp egg roll is a crunchy, deep-fried delight filled with a savory blend of shrimp, cabbage, carrots, and seasonings. Wrapped in a wheat-based wrapper and fried to perfection, it offers an irresistible contrast between its crisp exterior and juicy filling. These egg rolls are a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants and are often served with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mustard.

Unlike spring rolls, which use a thinner wrapper and are sometimes served fresh, egg rolls are heartier, making them a more indulgent snack or appetizer. When cooked properly, they boast a beautifully golden crust with just the right amount of crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp egg rolls recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers. Here’s why you need to try it:

Perfectly crispy – Learn how to get that crunch without making them greasy.
Loaded with shrimp – A delicious twist on the classic egg roll.
Easy to customize – Swap in your favorite veggies or seasonings.
Great for meal prep – Make a batch and freeze them for later!

A Flavorful Combination of Ingredients

The magic of a great egg roll lies in its filling. The combination of tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and aromatic seasonings creates a balanced flavor in every bite. Garlic, ginger, and soy sauce infuse the filling with depth, while the crunchy wrapper seals in all the goodness.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the key ingredients you’ll need to make the perfect shrimp egg rolls.

Ingredients for the Perfect Shrimp Egg Rolls

Essential Ingredients

To make the best shrimp egg rolls recipe, you need a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and seasonings wrapped in a crispy shell. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp – Use fresh or frozen shrimp, deveined and chopped into small pieces.
Egg roll wrappers – Found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
Cabbage – Shredded green or Napa cabbage adds crunch and flavor.
Carrots – Julienned or shredded for a slight sweetness.
Green onions – For a mild, fresh bite.
Garlic & ginger – Essential aromatics for depth of flavor.
Soy sauce – Adds a rich umami taste.
Sesame oil – A drizzle enhances the authentic flavor.
Cornstarch slurry – Helps seal the egg rolls to prevent leaks.

Choosing the Best Shrimp for Egg Rolls

Not all shrimp are created equal. For this recipe, medium-sized shrimp (31-40 count per pound) work best. They cook quickly and distribute well in the filling. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping. Excess moisture can make the filling soggy, which can ruin the crispiness of the egg rolls.

Wrappers: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Store-bought egg roll wrappers are convenient and widely available. However, if you enjoy making things from scratch, homemade wrappers offer an extra level of freshness. Just ensure they are thin enough to crisp up nicely when fried.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to preparing the filling.

How to Prepare the Filling

Cleaning and Preparing the Shrimp

Before anything else, make sure your shrimp are cleaned, deveined, and chopped into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by running cold water over them in a colander. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture—this ensures they sauté properly without becoming rubbery.

Vegetables That Complement Shrimp Egg Rolls

A good shrimp egg rolls recipe relies on fresh, crunchy vegetables. Cabbage and carrots are classics, but you can also experiment with bean sprouts, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. The key is to cut everything into thin, uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancements

The right combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil takes your filling to the next level. Lightly sauté your garlic and ginger in sesame oil before adding the shrimp—this releases their aroma and infuses the seafood with bold flavors. Stir in the vegetables, followed by a splash of soy sauce for umami depth.

Mixing and Cooking the Filling

Cooking the filling properly is crucial. Here’s how to do it:

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Toss in chopped shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
Stir in shredded cabbage and carrots, cooking just until they soften.
Add soy sauce and mix everything well.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely before assembling the egg rolls.

Cooling the filling is important—it prevents the wrappers from becoming soggy and ensures the egg rolls fry up crispy and golden.

Up next, we’ll cover how to wrap and roll your egg rolls perfectly. Stay tuned!

Wrapping and Rolling Techniques

Step-by-Step Guide to Rolling Egg Rolls

Once your filling has cooled, it’s time to wrap the egg rolls. Follow these simple steps to ensure your egg rolls are tightly sealed and ready for frying:

Lay out a wrapper – Place a single egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing toward you (like a diamond shape).
Add the filling – Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the prepared shrimp mixture onto the lower third of the wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, or the wrapper may tear.
Fold the bottom corner – Lift the bottom corner over the filling, tucking it in gently.
Fold in the sides – Bring both side corners toward the center, sealing the edges to create a tight pocket.
Roll it up – Roll the egg roll tightly toward the top corner.
Seal with cornstarch slurry – Brush a little cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) on the top edge to help the wrapper stick together.

Sealing Tips for Crispy Egg Rolls

A well-sealed egg roll prevents the filling from leaking out during frying. Here are a few tricks to make sure your egg rolls stay intact:

Use a light but firm touch when rolling to avoid squeezing out the filling.
Don’t use too much moisture, as wet wrappers may break apart in the oil.
Let the wrapped egg rolls rest for a few minutes before frying so the seal sets properly.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Many people struggle with wrappers tearing or egg rolls bursting open in hot oil. To avoid this:

Don’t overstuff – Too much filling can make it hard to roll tightly.
Use the right temperature – Frying at 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking.
Pat shrimp dry – Too much moisture makes wrappers soggy, which leads to breakage.

Now that your egg rolls are wrapped and ready, let’s move on to cooking them to crispy perfection!

Cooking Methods – Frying, Baking, and Air Frying

Traditional Deep-Frying for Extra Crispiness

The classic way to cook a shrimp egg rolls recipe is by deep-frying. It creates a beautifully golden, crispy texture that’s hard to beat. Here’s how to do it:

Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place a few egg rolls into the oil, ensuring they have space to fry evenly.
Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Baking for a Healthier Option

If you prefer a lighter option, baking is a great alternative. While not as crispy as deep-fried, baked egg rolls are still delicious and golden.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly brush each egg roll with vegetable or sesame oil to help with browning.
Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

Air Fryer Method: The Best of Both Worlds

Air frying is a fantastic middle ground—it provides crispiness without excessive oil.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray or brush with oil.
Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.

Tips to Prevent Soggy Egg Rolls

No matter how you cook them, follow these tips for maximum crispiness:

Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to avoid steaming.
Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer—this ensures even cooking.
Serve immediately—egg rolls are best when fresh and hot.

Now that your egg rolls are cooked to perfection, let’s explore the best dipping sauces and side dishes to serve them with!

Dipping Sauces and Pairings

Best Dipping Sauces for Shrimp Egg Rolls

A great shrimp egg rolls recipe isn’t complete without a delicious dipping sauce. The crispy texture of the egg rolls pairs perfectly with a variety of sauces, enhancing the flavors of the filling. Here are some top choices:

Sweet chili sauce – A classic, slightly spicy sauce with a hint of sweetness.
Soy sauce with sesame oil – A simple, umami-packed dip with a nutty aroma.
Garlic and ginger soy sauce – A homemade blend of soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a dash of rice vinegar.
Spicy sriracha mayo – A creamy and tangy option for those who love a kick of heat.
Hoisin sauce – A thick, slightly sweet, and salty sauce that complements shrimp well.

To customize your sauce, add a squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Side Dishes to Serve with Egg Rolls

While shrimp egg rolls make a fantastic snack on their own, they’re even better when paired with complementary sides. Here are a few great options:

Fried rice – A flavorful, filling dish that balances the crunchiness of egg rolls.
Lo mein noodles – Soft noodles with a savory sauce make for a great contrast.
Stir-fried vegetables – A light and healthy side to balance out the deep-fried goodness.
Cucumber salad – A refreshing, tangy salad with sesame dressing.
Miso soup – A warm, umami-rich soup that pairs well with crispy dishes.

Now that you know what to serve with your egg rolls, let’s go over how to store and reheat them properly to keep them fresh and crispy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftover Shrimp Egg Rolls

If you’ve made extra egg rolls, proper storage is key to maintaining their crispiness. Follow these simple steps to store them correctly:

Refrigerate: Place cooled egg rolls in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, arrange egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months when frozen.

Best Ways to Reheat for Maximum Crispiness

Reheating egg rolls the right way ensures they stay crispy and delicious. Avoid microwaving them, as it makes them soggy. Instead, try these methods:

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air fryer: Set to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 5-7 minutes until crisp.
Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a pan and fry each side for 1-2 minutes to restore crispiness.

Can You Freeze Shrimp Egg Rolls?

Yes! You can freeze both cooked and uncooked egg rolls. If freezing uncooked egg rolls, wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together and makes frying or baking them later much easier.

Now that we’ve covered how to store and reheat them, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about shrimp egg rolls.

FAQs – Answering Common Questions

What Goes in a Shrimp Egg Roll?

A shrimp egg rolls recipe typically includes shrimp, cabbage, carrots, green onions, and seasonings like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. These ingredients are wrapped in an egg roll wrapper and fried until crispy. You can also customize the filling by adding bean sprouts, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

What Is Egg Roll Filling Made Of?

Egg roll filling is made of a mix of protein and vegetables cooked together with seasonings. In shrimp egg rolls, the shrimp is chopped and sautéed with shredded cabbage and carrots. A touch of sesame oil, soy sauce, and cornstarch binds everything together, creating a flavorful and slightly juicy filling.

Do I Need to Thaw Egg Rolls Before Frying?

If you’ve frozen uncooked egg rolls, you can fry them straight from the freezer. However, frying them frozen may take a minute or two longer. If baking or air frying, letting them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes helps ensure even cooking.

What Is the Difference Between Chinese Spring Rolls and Egg Rolls?

The main difference is in the wrapper. Spring rolls have a thin, delicate wrapper that becomes extra crispy when fried. Egg rolls, on the other hand, have a thicker wrapper that fries up bubbly and crunchy. Additionally, spring rolls are sometimes served fresh (unfried), while egg rolls are always cooked.

Conclusion – Enjoy Your Homemade Shrimp Egg Rolls!

Making your own shrimp egg rolls recipe at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and the right cooking techniques, you can create crispy, flavorful egg rolls that rival any takeout version. Whether you prefer deep-frying for extra crunch, baking for a lighter option, or air frying for convenience, there’s a method for everyone.

To get the best results, always start with fresh shrimp and crunchy vegetables. Properly sealing your egg rolls ensures they won’t break open while cooking. And don’t forget the dipping sauces—sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or sriracha mayo all make fantastic accompaniments.

If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge or freezer for later. When reheating, opt for the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy instead of soggy. And if you ever have extra wrappers, get creative! You can fill them with different ingredients like chicken, tofu, or even a dessert filling.

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, why not try making a full meal with your egg rolls? Pair them with fried rice, lo mein, or a fresh cucumber salad. There are endless ways to enjoy them!

So, grab your ingredients, roll up some egg rolls, and enjoy a delicious homemade treat. Once you take that first crispy bite, you’ll see just how rewarding it is to make them from scratch. Happy cooking!