Crispy Crab Cake Egg Rolls with Lemon Dip (Air Fryer Recipe)

Introduction

Crab cake egg rolls combine the rich, flavorful goodness of crab cakes with the crispy crunch of egg rolls. This air fryer version delivers a golden-brown, crunchy exterior with a tender and juicy crab-filled center. The lemon dip adds a tangy contrast that enhances every bite. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a fun dinner idea!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Servings: 8 egg rolls

Ingredients

For the Crab Cake Filling:

8 oz lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)

½ cup panko breadcrumbs

1 egg, lightly beaten

¼ cup mayonnaise

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp Old Bay seasoning

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp lemon juice

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

For the Egg Rolls:

8 egg roll wrappers

1 tbsp water (for sealing)

Cooking spray or oil (for air fryer)

For the Lemon Dip:

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp Old Bay seasoning

½ tsp honey (optional)

Instructions

 Make the Crab Cake Filling

In a large bowl, combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Mix gently to avoid breaking the crab meat too much. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If too dry, add a bit more mayo; if too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

 Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with a corner pointing toward you (diamond shape).

Place about 2 tablespoons of the crab mixture in the center.

Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides.

Roll tightly toward the top corner, sealing the edge with a bit of water.

Repeat for all egg rolls.

 Air Fry the Egg Rolls

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.

Arrange egg rolls in a single layer, seam side down. Do not overcrowd.

Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush with a little oil for extra crispiness.

Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

 Make the Lemon Dip

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, and honey (if using).

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Serve warm with the lemon dip on the side. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Use Lump Crab Meat – Gives the best texture and flavor. Avoid imitation crab.

Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can cause the egg rolls to burst.

Seal Well – Use water to secure the edges tightly to prevent leaking.

Spray with Oil – Helps achieve a crispy golden crust in the air fryer.

Work in Batches – Don’t overcrowd the air fryer for even cooking.

Serve Immediately – Best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Nutrition (Per Egg Roll)

Calories: ~180

Protein: 10g

Carbs: 14g

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 1g