Thanksgiving Egg Rolls are truly the pinnacle of Thanksgiving leftover creativity. Imagine all your beloved holiday classics—creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and tender turkey—skillfully encased in a golden, crispy baked egg roll wrapper. This ingenious appetizer is an absolute game-changer, promising an explosion of flavor in every hand-held bite that will leave your guests utterly amazed.

Reinvent Your Thanksgiving Leftovers with Irresistible Egg Rolls

After the grandeur of Thanksgiving dinner, the lingering question often becomes: what to do with all those delicious leftovers? While beloved classics like Pierogi Lasagna or a festive Thanksgiving Pizza offer creative solutions, nothing quite captures the imagination—or the taste buds—like these incredible Thanksgiving Egg Rolls. They represent the ultimate transformation of holiday remnants into a novel, exciting dish that might just become your most anticipated post-holiday tradition.

Each egg roll is a perfectly balanced medley of textures and tastes. We start with a generous spread of fluffy mashed potatoes, layering it with fragrant, herby stuffing, and finishing with finely diced, succulent turkey. Once baked to a beautiful golden crisp, these handheld delights are absolutely divine when served alongside a warm, rich side of leftover gravy or a tangy dollop of homemade cranberry sauce for dipping. It’s a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet, all wrapped in a satisfyingly crunchy shell.

This recipe is more than just a way to use up leftovers; it’s a culinary event that many eagerly await all year. The combination of crispy exterior, warm and tender interior, and the familiar, comforting flavors of Thanksgiving makes it an undeniable hit. It’s savory, salty, and with a hint of sweetness from the cranberry sauce, it hits every note. Why settle for a plain sandwich when you can experience the joy of Thanksgiving in such a fun, unique format?

The Magic of Thanksgiving Egg Rolls: A Leftover Transformation

Thanksgiving dinner is a feast of epic proportions, leaving us with not just full bellies but also an abundance of wonderful ingredients. Instead of merely reheating plates of turkey and sides, these egg rolls offer an exciting new narrative for your leftovers. They are effortless to prepare, incredibly customizable, and universally loved. Imagine hosting a casual get-together the day after Thanksgiving and presenting these elegant, yet playful, appetizers. They’re conversation starters, comfort food, and convenience all rolled into one perfect bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It takes components that are already cooked and delicious and reimagines them in a completely different, yet equally satisfying, form. The process is straightforward, making it an ideal post-holiday cooking project that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re not just for appetizers; these egg rolls can easily serve as a light lunch, a festive snack, or even a fun dinner with a fresh green salad.

Crafting Your Perfect Thanksgiving Egg Rolls: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful egg rolls is surprisingly simple and immensely rewarding. Follow these easy steps to ensure each one turns out perfectly golden and bursting with flavor. The detailed quantities and instructions are provided in the recipe card below, but these tips will guide you through the process for flawless results.

1. Prepare Your Workspace and Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a large, rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside. In a small bowl, whisk together one large egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash; this will help achieve that beautiful golden crispness and seal the wrappers effectively. Ensure all your leftover ingredients—mashed potatoes, stuffing, and turkey—are ready and easily accessible.
2. Filling Each Egg Roll Wrapper: Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean, dry surface. Take care not to overstuff, as this can make rolling difficult and lead to breakage. Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of warm mashed potatoes onto the center of the wrapper. Next, sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of crumbled stuffing over the mashed potatoes. Finish with 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely diced turkey. The key here is an even distribution without overwhelming the wrapper.
3. Mastering the Roll: Achieving a tight, secure roll is crucial for a perfectly crispy egg roll. Moisten the outer edges of the wrapper by brushing them with your prepared egg wash or a little plain water. Begin by folding the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling, ensuring it’s tucked snugly. Then, fold in the left and right side corners towards the center, creating an envelope shape. Finally, tightly roll the egg roll upwards from the bottom until it’s completely sealed. Place the assembled egg roll seam-side down onto your prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for the remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Achieving Golden Crispness: For that irresistible golden-brown finish and extra crisp texture, lightly brush the tops and sides of each assembled egg roll with the remaining egg wash. Alternatively, a quick spritz of cooking spray will also do the trick, especially if you’re looking for a slightly lighter option or an egg-free alternative.
5. Baking to Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet with the egg rolls into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden and crispy. To ensure even browning on all sides, remember to carefully flip the egg rolls halfway through the baking time, usually around the 10-12 minute mark.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, these Thanksgiving Egg Rolls are ready to be devoured! Serve them immediately while hot and crispy. The perfect accompaniments are warm leftover turkey gravy for a savory dip, or a vibrant cranberry sauce for a delightful sweet and tangy contrast. Both elevate the experience and complete this unique holiday leftover creation.

Expert Tips and Creative Variations for Your Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

Make your Thanksgiving Egg Rolls even better with these helpful tips and imaginative variations. Whether you’re short on time, have dietary considerations, or want to experiment with different flavors, these suggestions will ensure your egg rolls are a resounding success.

• Embrace the Air Fryer for Extra Crispy Results: For an even faster and remarkably crispier outcome, use your air fryer! Skip the egg wash entirely; instead, simply spray the assembled egg rolls generously with cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket (working in batches if necessary) and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Flip them over, and air fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of golden crispness. This method yields an incredibly satisfying crunch without deep-frying.
• Prep-Ahead for Stress-Free Entertaining: One of the best features of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can fully assemble these egg rolls up to 24 hours before you plan to bake or air fry them. Simply roll them as directed, then arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator, ensuring they are well-covered. When you’re ready to cook, just brush them with the egg wash (for baking) or spray with cooking spray (for air frying) and proceed with the baking or air frying instructions. This flexibility makes holiday entertaining a breeze.
• Locating Egg Roll Wrappers: Egg roll wrappers are a common supermarket find! Look for them in the refrigerated section, typically near other Asian specialty ingredients, wonton wrappers, or sometimes even in the produce section alongside fresh herbs. They come in various sizes, so choose a standard size for ease of filling and rolling.
• Egg-Free Modifications for Allergies or Preferences: For those with egg allergies or who prefer an egg-free option, worry not! Most store-bought egg roll wrappers are naturally egg-free, but always double-check the ingredient list. To seal the egg rolls, simply use plain water along the perimeter of the wrapper instead of an egg wash. For browning and crisping, brush the assembled egg rolls with a neutral oil (like olive oil or avocado oil) or use a generous coating of cooking spray before baking or air frying.
• Optimal Mashed Potato Consistency: Cold, thick mashed potatoes can be challenging to spread. For easier handling, gently warm your mashed potatoes slightly before filling the wrappers. If they are too dense, you can loosen them with a splash of warmed milk or chicken broth until they reach a more spreadable consistency. This ensures a smoother filling process and better distribution of flavor.
• Unleash Your Creativity: Use Any Leftovers You Have! Don’t limit yourself to just turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable!
  • Sweet & Savory Twist: Combine sweet potato casserole (especially without marshmallows, or just a little bit for sweetness) with shredded turkey for a delightful sweet and savory experience.
  • Cheesy Indulgence: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the filling for an extra layer of richness.
  • Vegetable Boost: Incorporate leftover corn casserole, green bean casserole, or even sautéed mushrooms and onions for added texture and flavor.
  • Gourmet Touch: If you have leftover baked brie or whipped brie, slice it thinly and add it with turkey and cranberry sauce for a truly luxurious bite.
  • Herbaceous Freshness: A tiny sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the flavors.
• Beyond Gravy: Dipping Sauce Adventures: While gravy and cranberry sauce are classic choices, consider other dipping options to elevate your egg rolls. A spicy sriracha mayo, a tangy honey mustard, or even a sweet and sour sauce can add an exciting twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Egg Rolls?

Yes, absolutely! You can freeze them both before and after cooking. To freeze uncooked egg rolls, assemble them as directed, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Bake or air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Cooked egg rolls can also be frozen and reheated in the oven or air fryer until crisp.

What if my mashed potatoes are too dry or lumpy?

For best results, your mashed potatoes should be smooth and spreadable. If they are too dry, warm them slightly and stir in a tablespoon or two of milk, cream, or chicken broth until they reach the desired consistency. Ensure they are well mashed to avoid large lumps that could tear the wrappers.

Can I deep-fry these egg rolls instead of baking or air frying?

While this recipe focuses on baked or air-fried versions for a lighter touch, you can certainly deep-fry them for an extra crispy, golden finish. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches, turning occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes or until golden brown and heated through. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels.

Are there vegetarian Thanksgiving Egg Roll options?

Absolutely! You can easily make vegetarian egg rolls by omitting the turkey. Increase the amounts of mashed potatoes and stuffing, or add other cooked vegetarian Thanksgiving sides like roasted vegetables (squash, Brussels sprouts), green bean casserole, or corn casserole. A sprinkle of cheese would also be a great addition.

How do I prevent the egg rolls from getting soggy?

The key is to avoid overfilling and to bake/air fry them until they are truly crispy. Ensure your fillings aren’t overly wet. Baking on a greased sheet pan and flipping them halfway through helps. If air frying, ensure you don’t overcrowd the basket. Serve them immediately after cooking for the best texture.

More Inspiring Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes

If you’re still looking for creative ways to enjoy your holiday remnants, here are some other fantastic recipes:

• Pierogi Lasagna: A comforting casserole perfect for using up mashed potatoes.
• Thanksgiving Pizza: A flavorful pizza topped with turkey, cranberries, and more.
• Turkey Club Wrap: A simple yet satisfying lunch option.
• Roasted Turkey Sandwich: Elevate your classic turkey sandwich.
• Southwestern Turkey Soup: A warming and hearty soup to ward off the chill.

For even more innovative ideas on how to transform your Thanksgiving Leftovers, be sure to explore all my recipes for Thanksgiving Leftovers!

Thanksgiving Egg Rolls Recipe Card

Rating: 4.88 out of 5 stars based on 8 votes.

Recipe Details:

• By: Kristen Chidsey
• Servings: 20 egg rolls
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Holiday leftovers truly shine in these irresistible Thanksgiving Egg Rolls! This recipe ingeniously stuffs all your favorite holiday remnants—mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and tender turkey—into a crispy baked egg roll wrapper, creating an extraordinary appetizer that will be the talk of your post-holiday gathering. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear, these are a must-try for anyone looking to reinvent their Thanksgiving feast.

Ingredients:

• 2-½ cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 1-½ cups leftover stuffing (crumbled)
• 1-½ cups chopped cooked turkey (finely diced)
• 20 egg roll wrappers
• Cooking spray or a neutral oil (for baking/air frying)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash, if using egg)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a large, rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg with 1 tablespoon of water until well combined. This mixture will be used for sealing and browning.
3. Fill Each Wrapper: Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Spread about 2 tablespoons of warm mashed potatoes in the center. Top the mashed potatoes with 1 tablespoon of crumbled stuffing, then add 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely chopped turkey. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult and lead to breakage.
4. Roll the Egg Rolls: Brush the outer perimeter of the wrapper with the prepared egg wash (or plain water for an egg-free option). Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling. Next, fold in the left and right side corners towards the center, creating an envelope shape. Continue to roll the egg roll tightly upwards until it is fully sealed. Place the finished egg roll seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat for all remaining wrappers and filling.
   

   

   

5. Brush & Bake: Brush the tops and sides of the assembled egg rolls with the remaining egg wash, or spray generously with cooking spray if opting for an egg-free crust.
   

   

6. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the egg rolls over after 10-12 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy on all sides and the filling is thoroughly heated through.
7. Serve: Serve your delicious Thanksgiving Egg Rolls immediately while hot and crispy. Pair them with warm leftover gravy and/or tangy cranberry sauce for dipping. Enjoy this unique holiday leftover creation!

Notes & Tips:

• Air Fryer Instructions: For an extra crispy finish, assemble the egg rolls as directed, but do not brush with an egg wash. Instead, spray them generously with nonstick cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket (do not overcrowd). Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes, then carefully flip and air fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until perfectly crispy and golden.
• Assemble in Advance: These egg rolls are excellent for meal prep! You can assemble them up to 24 hours before you plan to cook them. Roll them up as instructed, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, brush with egg wash; if air frying, spray with cooking spray before proceeding with the cooking steps.
• Egg-Free Option: If you need an egg-free alternative, use plain water to seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers. For crisping and browning during baking, brush the egg rolls with a neutral oil (like olive oil or avocado oil) or use cooking spray instead of an egg wash.
• Adjusting Quantities: This recipe yields 20 egg rolls, perfect for a gathering. Feel free to easily increase or decrease the ingredient quantities based on the amount of leftovers you have on hand and how many servings you need.
• Warm Mashed Potatoes: For easier spreading and a smoother filling process, ensure your mashed potatoes are slightly warm and pliable. If they are too thick or cold, warm them gently and stir in a tablespoon of milk or broth to achieve a better consistency.

Nutrition Information:

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation per egg roll:

• Calories: 104 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 14mg
• Sodium: 165mg
• Potassium: 123mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Vitamin A: 65 IU
• Vitamin C: 6.1mg
• Calcium: 15mg
• Iron: 0.8mg

We would love to hear from you! If you tried this delicious Thanksgiving Egg Rolls recipe, please consider leaving a comment below and sharing your experience.