Crispy Air Fryer Cheeseburger Spring Rolls; Low-Cal, High Reward

Who says cheeseburgers have to be served on a bun? These Cheeseburger Spring Rolls are the perfect way to enjoy all the classic flavors of a burger—wrapped up in crispy, golden rice paper and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Juicy seasoned beef, melty cheddar, tangy pickles, and a touch of special sauce all come together in a handheld bite that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat.

If you love a good cheeseburger but want something a little different, this recipe is for you. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer keeps things light while still giving you that satisfying crunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb organic ground beef – I love using Force of Nature for its nutrient-dense blend, but you can substitute with grass-fed ground beef or even ground turkey for a lighter option.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth. Swap with shallots for a milder taste.
• 1 tbsp ketchup – Brings a touch of sweetness and acidity.
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the filling. Feel free to use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Balances out the richness. Yellow mustard works too!
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth. Coconut aminos can be used as a soy-free alternative.
• ½ cup pickles, diced – Classic burger tang! Dill pickles are best, but bread-and-butter pickles will give a hint of sweetness.
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated – Sharp cheddar is ideal, but Swiss, Gouda, or a dairy-free alternative can work too.
• About 8 rice paper wrappers – These crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. If you prefer, egg roll wrappers can be used for a different texture.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Spring Rolls

• Drain the Liquid: After browning the beef and onions, be sure to drain any excess liquid. This step is key to preventing soggy spring rolls.
• Cool Before Rolling: Let the filling cool slightly before assembling. Warm filling can make the rice paper too soft and tricky to handle.
• Double Wrap for Extra Crunch: Rice paper can be delicate. Wrapping each roll twice helps create a sturdier, crispier bite.
• Don’t Overstuff: Add just enough filling to allow for a tight roll. Overfilling can cause the wrappers to tear or leak during cooking.
• Use a Light Oil Spray: A quick mist of avocado or olive oil before air frying helps the rolls crisp up beautifully without making them greasy.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

• Burger Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and a splash of pickle juice for a creamy, tangy dip.
• Spicy Mustard: Dijon mustard with a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Garlic Aioli: Mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a rich, flavorful dip.

A Lighter, More Exciting Way to Enjoy Ground Beef

If you’re like me and find yourself stuck in a routine of ground beef bowls, these Cheeseburger Spring Rolls are the perfect way to mix things up. They bring all the familiar, comforting flavors of a burger but in a crispy, handheld form that feels fresh and fun. Plus, since they’re air-fried instead of deep-fried, they’re a lower-calorie option that doesn’t skimp on crunch or flavor. 

Whether you’re looking for a lightened-up take on a cheeseburger or just want something new, these Cheeseburger Spring Rolls are a fun, unexpected twist on a classic. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even a quick meal, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. And since they’re air-fried instead of deep-fried, you get all the crunch without the excess oil. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out! What’s your favorite burger topping? Maybe we’ll find a way to roll it up next time.