Name: Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 whole medium white onion, finely diced; 1 whole green bell pepper, finely diced (optional); ¼ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup shredded provolone cheese; 1 package egg roll wrappers; 1 whole egg, beaten (for sealing); 1 tsp olive oil spray; 1 whole garlic bulb; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

I absolutely love sharing this Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe because it combines all my favorite flavors into one irresistibly crispy bite. It’s a fun twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, wrapped in a golden, crunchy egg roll wrapper and perfectly cooked in the air fryer for that delightful crispiness without the extra oil mess. The savory blend of ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, melted provolone cheese, and a garlicky aioli dipping sauce just makes every bite something to savor. I always find myself coming back to this recipe whether it’s for a party appetizer or a quick weeknight treat!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe

What makes this Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe stand out to me is the incredible balance of flavors and textures. The juicy, well-seasoned ground beef mingled with tender onions and the optional green bell pepper brings a fresh, savory taste that’s elevated by the creamy, melty provolone cheese inside. Wrapping all that into an egg roll wrapper and air frying it creates this wonderfully crisp exterior that contrasts so nicely with the warm, cheesy filling. It’s like mini handheld Philly cheesesteaks that are endlessly addictive.

Another thing I adore about this recipe is the ease and convenience it brings to the table. Air frying means you get that perfect crunch without deep frying or a greasy cleanup. Plus, the garlic aioli that accompanies these egg rolls is a luscious, garlicky kick made from roasted garlic that adds such a gourmet touch. I find this recipe works perfectly for all kinds of gatherings — from casual family dinners to game day parties or even fancy cocktail nights. It’s a recipe you can make ahead, reheat, or whip up quickly, and it always impresses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a large black cast iron pan, there are three layers of ingredients. The bottom layer is raw ground meat with a mix of light and dark pink colors spread unevenly across most of the pan. On top of the meat, on the left side, is a pile of small, bright green chopped bell peppers. To the right of the peppers, there is a stack of finely diced white onions. The pan is resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe are straightforward but essential, each one contributing to the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Fresh veggies add brightness, while the cheese ensures gooey richness, and the egg roll wrappers deliver that crisp golden finish.

1 lb ground beef: The juicy base of our filling, bringing savory and meaty flavor.
1 whole medium white onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch after cooking.
1 whole green bell pepper (optional, finely diced): Gives the filling a fresh, slightly tangy note.
¼ tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the filling.
¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.
½ tsp garlic powder: Boosts savory aroma and taste.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and a touch of tangy complexity.
1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully for that authentic Philly cheesesteak feel.
1 package egg roll wrappers: Crisp and golden shell that holds everything together perfectly.
1 whole egg (beaten): Used for sealing the wrappers to keep the filling in place.
1 tsp olive oil spray: Helps crisp up the egg rolls in the air fryer.
1 whole garlic bulb: For roasting and making the garlicky aioli dipping sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to roast the garlic till caramelized and tender.
1 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The base for the creamy garlic aioli.
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Adds brightness and balances the richness of the aioli.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the aioli’s flavor.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle seasoning to the aioli.

Directions

Step 1: Heat a heavy-bottomed pan, like cast iron, over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it sit undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes so it develops a nice brown crust. Then, use a meat masher to break the beef into smaller pieces. I like to do this while roasting the garlic to save time.

Step 2: Add the finely diced onion and optional green bell pepper to the pan. Cook everything together for another 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the beef is fully cooked through.

Step 3: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded provolone cheese until it’s melted and well incorporated. Remove the pan from heat and let the filling cool slightly so it’s easier to handle when filling the egg rolls.

Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F while you prepare the egg rolls. Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the steak and cheese mixture about ¾ of the way down the center of each egg roll wrapper.

Step 5: Carefully fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling. Dab the edges with beaten egg to act as glue, fold in the sides envelope-style, then roll tightly toward the top corner. Seal the edge with a small dab of water to ensure it stays closed during cooking. Repeat for all wrappers.

Step 6: Lightly spray olive oil on both sides of the egg rolls. Arrange them seam-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. If cooking in batches, keep the finished egg rolls warm in a 200°F oven.

Step 7: Preheat your oven to 400°F to roast the garlic for the aioli. Slice about ½ inch off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap tightly in foil. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes until cloves are soft, caramelized, and easy to squeeze out.

Step 8: While the garlic roasts, mix mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 9: Once the garlic has cooled slightly, flip the bulb upside down and gently squeeze out the softened cloves into the mayo mixture. Mash and mix thoroughly until fully combined. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Step 10: Serve your hot Philly cheesesteak egg rolls on a platter with the luscious garlic aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy each crispy, cheesy bite!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 15 egg rolls, perfect as a party appetizer or a hearty snack for a small gathering. The prep time is around 15 minutes, mainly chopping and preparing the filling. Cooking the beef and vegetables takes about 10 minutes, with air frying adding another 10 to 12 minutes total for a crispy finish. Roasting the garlic for the aioli takes the longest at 25 to 35 minutes, but this can be done ahead. Overall, you’ll spend about 35 minutes hands-on making this delicious dish.

How to Serve This Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe

The image shows eight uncooked spring rolls placed on a black wire cooling rack over a white marbled surface. There are two rows of four rolls each, evenly spaced apart. The rolls have a smooth, slightly shiny light beige wrapper that looks soft and thin. The white marbled background contrasts with the rolls and the darker wire rack underneath. The whole scene is simple, clean, and focused on the raw spring rolls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving these egg rolls piping hot, fresh out of the air fryer, because that’s when the wrapper is at its crispiest and the cheese within is perfectly gooey. Placing them on a large platter with a small bowl of the garlicky aioli makes for a stunning presentation that invites everyone to dig in. Garnishing the platter with some chopped fresh parsley or green onions adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.

These egg rolls pair wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crunchy pickles to counterbalance their rich filling. For something heartier, I sometimes serve them alongside roasted sweet potato fries or a tangy coleslaw to round out the meal. When it comes to drinks, a crisp pilsner or light lager complements the savory flavors well, but if you prefer wine, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity rosé works beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea with a splash of lemon is refreshing and bright.

This recipe shines at parties, game days, or weekend get-togethers, but it’s also great as a fun weeknight meal or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss. I usually recommend serving three to four egg rolls per person as an appetizer or six if it’s the main dish. Don’t forget to serve the egg rolls while they’re still warm to enjoy their best crunch and flavor.

Variations

I love experimenting with this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For example, swapping ground beef for thinly sliced ribeye steak turns these egg rolls into an even more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience if you’re feeling indulgent. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

If you want to make this recipe gluten-free, you can find gluten-free egg roll wrappers at specialty stores or substitute with rice paper wrappers, though they might require a slightly different cooking approach. For a vegan take, swapping beef for seasoned mushrooms or crumbled tofu and replacing provolone with a vegan cheese creates a delicious alternative, and pairing that with a vegan mayo-based aioli keeps the dipping sauce creamy and flavorful.

Besides air frying, you can bake these egg rolls in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to get them golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, lightly brushing the wrappers with olive oil before baking is a great trick I often use. Feel free to add extra spices like smoked paprika or chopped jalapeño to the filling if you want a kick of heat and a bold flavor boost.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover egg rolls, store them in an airtight container once they’ve completely cooled to keep the wrapper crisp. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure not to stack them tightly to avoid sogginess—lining the container with paper towels can help absorb any residual moisture.

Freezing

This Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe freezes beautifully. I recommend freezing the egg rolls uncooked, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, you can air fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly crisp results.

Reheating

To reheat leftover or frozen egg rolls, the best method is back in the air fryer at 350°F for 4 to 6 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the wrappers soggy. If you don’t have an air fryer handy, reheating in a conventional oven on a baking sheet at 375°F for about 10 minutes works well, flipping halfway through for even browning.

FAQs

Can I use sliced steak instead of ground beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak will give a more traditional Philly cheesesteak texture and flavor. Just cook the slices quickly in a hot pan before mixing with vegetables and cheese. Keep in mind the cooking time may be shorter.

What can I substitute for provolone cheese if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have provolone, mozzarella is a great mild, melty option. Swiss or Monterey Jack cheeses also work well for their meltability and mild flavor. Avoid very hard or crumbly cheeses as they won’t melt the same way.

Is it necessary to use the garlic aioli sauce with the egg rolls?

While the garlic aioli is my favorite dipping sauce for these egg rolls, you can certainly serve them with ketchup, mustard, or even a spicy ranch dressing. The aioli adds a special gourmet touch, but feel free to use whatever dip you love most.

Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and assemble the egg rolls a few hours ahead or even the day before. Keep them covered in the fridge and air fry just before serving for the crispiest results. The garlic aioli can also be made ahead and stored refrigerated.

Do I have to use an air fryer?

Not at all! While the air fryer is fantastic for quick, mess-free crunch, you can bake the egg rolls in a conventional oven or even deep fry them if you prefer. Just adjust timing accordingly to ensure they’re crispy and cooked through.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe a try — it’s been one of my favorite go-to snacks and appetizers lately! There’s something so satisfying about that melty, savory filling wrapped in a crispy shell, especially paired with the rich roasted garlic aioli. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you taste them, I’m sure you’ll be hooked too!