I’ve been sharing recipes online for over ten years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that people want meals that actually work. These Air Fryer Crab Rangoons are tested and approved in real home kitchens—no guessing, no fancy tools—just incredible flavor you can count on every time. You’ll get that perfect crunch without the deep-frying mess, using ingredients you probably already have on hand.
This post contains affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure here.
This post was originally published in 2018. It has since been updated.
Table of Contents
Readers Love These Crab Rangoons
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first time ever making crab Rangoon and I was nervous to try. The recipe was so easy to follow and they came out perfectly! I baked them in two batches as suggested and they were crispy and perfect. I really like the fact that they are in the air fryer and not as oily as a typical crab rangoon you would get from take out. I am ready to make these again!
~Julie
If you know me well then you know I am very fond of traditional Asian cuisine. I often frequent a local Vietnamese restaurant a couple of blocks from my house. Yes, I know crab rangoon is NOT an authentic Asian appetizer, but that will not stop me from enjoying it! I make my rounds and enjoy authentic Asian meals a lot. So, I deserve to indulge in this un-authentic treat from time to time!
I have become obsessed with my Air Fryer! Growing up, my family ate fried food a lot. My mom fried chicken, pork chops, fish, and other dishes quite a bit. These meals were certainly tasty but obviously are not good overall. Times have changed so much!
We now have a device that can fry food without using all of that grease. That is simply astonishing. As such, you will probably find me in the kitchen every single weekend experimenting with the Air Fryer. I feel like I owe it to my childhood.
What are Crab Rangoons?
Crab Rangoons are a popular American-Chinese appetizer made by filling wonton wrappers with a creamy mixture of crab meat, cream cheese, garlic, and sometimes green onions, then folding them into little pockets and cooked until crispy and golden. They’re typically deep-fried, but you can also air fry or bake them for a lighter version. I always air fry mine.
What does Crab Rangoon taste like?
They’re crunchy on the outside with a rich, savory, and slightly sweet filling and usually served with a sweet chili sauce or duck sauce for dipping. They’re not fishy, just a subtle seafood flavor wrapped in crunchy, cheesy goodness. Super satisfying and totally addictive.
Homemade Crab Rangoon Ingredients
- Cream Cheese
- Crab Meat
- Green Onions
- Garlic
- Worcestershire sauce
- Wonton Wrappers
What Type of Crab to Use/Imitation Crab vs Lump Crab
I use lump crab meat. You can find it in the refrigerated meat section of the grocery store. This recipe is commonly made with imitation crab meat, sometimes called krab meat. You can use that if you wish, it's also sometimes easier to find.
Imitation crab is processed fish meat. It is seafood and comes from surimi that has been deboned and minced into paste. It does not contain crab. Crab extract is sometimes added for flavor.
Use whichever you wish. You can read more about What Imitation Crab Is here.
A lot of restaurants that serve crab rangoon use imitation crab meat. If you prefer imitation crab meat, substitute that for the lump crab used in this recipe. There is a difference in taste. If you are looking to replicate your favorite, that may be the best option for you.
Wonton Wrappers
I have learned from experience of making these, all wrappers aren't equal. You may have to try a couple of different brands before you land on your favorite. Some rip and tear pretty easily, which means you will have to double wrap them if needed. Keep this in mind.
When shopping for wonton wrappers look for thin, square-shaped wrappers typically found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, near tofu or fresh noodles. The placement of these in the grocery store will vary.
Choose wrappers labeled “thin” or “super-thin” for the crispiest texture in the air fryer. If possible, opt for fresh over frozen, as they’re easier to handle and less likely to crack. If using frozen wrappers, let them thaw in the fridge before use. Also, check the ingredient list—simple ingredients like wheat, water, and salt yield the best results without unwanted additives.
Want to save this recipe for later?
I'll email it to you, so you can come back to it later! You will also get our free digital cookbook with 30-Minute One-Pot Recipes and weekly recipes and tips.
How to Make Air Fryer Crab Rangoon
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Combine cream cheese, green onions, crab meat, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic in a small bowl. Stir to mix well.
- Lay out the wonton wrappers on a working surface.
- Load about a teaspoon and a half of filling onto each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill.
- Fold each wrapper diagonally across to form a triangle. From there bring up the two opposite corners toward each other. Don't close the wrapper yet. Bring up the other two opposite sides, pushing out any air. Squeeze each of the edges together.
- Load the crab rangoon into the Air Fryer.
- Air fry.
Air Fryer Temperature
I recommend 370 degrees.
How Long to Cook/Cook Time
Cook for 10 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
How to Serve Crab Wontons
Serve them hot and fresh, immediately after cooking. Pair them with dippings sauces:
- Sweet chili sauce (classic!)
- Duck sauce
- Soy sauce
- Spicy mayo or sriracha aioli
- Garlic butter (for a twist!)
How to Store Homemade Crab Rangoon
Let them cool completely. Store in an airtight container, ideally with paper towels between layers to absorb moisture. They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Keep them Crispy
Reheating them in the air fryer does the trick. After being sealed away and stored, they will soften some. You can reheat them in the air fryer, maybe add a spritz of oil if necessary.
I used the sweet and sour dipping sauce from Frank's Red Hot. You can purchase it here.
If you are looking for wonton wrappers you can find them here.
Pair With These Recipes
Pair these with my other recipes: Orange Chicken Seafood Shrimp Pho Soup, Pad Thai, Air Fryer French Fries, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries, and Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders.
More Crab Recipes
Shrimp and Crab Quiche
Air Fryer Crab Cakes
Seafood Crab Salad
Crab Stuffed Salmon
Crab Rangoon Dip
Hot Baked Crab Dip
Baked Crab Legs
Air Fryer Crab Legs
More Recipes You Will Love
Pin this recipe for later here.
Air Fryer Crab Rangoons Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 or 6 oz cream cheese, softened If you prefer really creamy crab rangoon use 6 oz
- 4 or 6 oz lump crab meat If you prefer your crab rangoon to have more cream cheese and less crab, use 4 oz. Seafood lovers may want to go for 6 oz
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- 21 wonton wrappers
- cooking oil I use olive oil.
Instructions
- You can soften your cream cheese by heating it in the microwave for 20 seconds.4 or 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- Combine the cream cheese, green onions, crab meat, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic in a small bowl. Stir to mix well.4 or 6 oz lump crab meat, 2 green onions, chopped, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper to taste
- Lay out the wonton wrappers on a working surface. I used a large, bamboo cutting board. Moisten each of the wrappers with water. I use a cooking brush, and brush it along all of the edges.21 wonton wrappers
- Load about a teaspoon and a half of filling onto each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill.
- Fold each wrapper diagonally across to form a triangle. From there bring up the two opposite corners toward each other. Don't close the wrapper yet. Bring up the other two opposite sides, pushing out any air. Squeeze each of the edges together.
- Spritz the air fryer basket with cooking oil.cooking oil
- Load the crab rangoon into the air fryer basket. Do not stack or overfill. Cook in batches if needed.
- Spritz with oil.
- Place the Air Fryer on 370 degrees. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Open and flip the crab rangoon. Cook for an additional 2-5 minutes until they have reached your desired level of golden brown and crisp.
- Remove the crab rangoon from the air fryer and serve with your desired dipping sauce.
Video
Notes
- Your cook time may vary depending on the Air Fryer brand that you use. I recommend a temperature of at least 370 degrees. You should cook the crab rangoon until they have reached your desired level of crunchiness. Check in on them while they air fry to be sure the crab rangoon does not overcook.
- I have made this recipe and have stacked in all of the crab rangoon and I have made it in two batches. I believe making it in batches works best. If you stack them, you may have a few that are really soft to touch and break apart when you go to flip them over.
- All wrappers aren't equal. You may have to try a couple of different brands before you land on your favorite. Some rip and tear pretty easily, which means you will have to double wrap them if needed. Keep this in mind.
Kathy says
I don't have an air fryer. Can these be made in the oven?
staysnatched says
Yes
Lauren Worthy says
Made lobster rangoon using the same recipe. Husband and I absolutely loved them and it was so much easier in the air fryer. Took the tip of doubling up on the wrappers which kept them from ripping.
staysnatched says
That sounds so good!
Brooke says
These are tasty and so quick to make
staysnatched says
I'm so glad to hear it!
Dave says
Ok. I am ready to try, Son just gave us an air fryer that was not successful using. If I can do this anybody can! I will get back to you after I have given my best shot. Hope to have them Christmas Eve!!
staysnatched says
I hope you enjoy them.
Pat says
Great recipe! Added Old Bay seasoning.
staysnatched says
That sounds so good!
Justin says
I don’t see the recommended brand of wonton wrappers, can you provide that? First time and don’t want them to end up at the bottom of my AF. Thanks!
staysnatched says
I never see the same brand at my local grocer. It’s a different one every time. You will have to try out what you can find.
Alison says
Yummy recipe!
I did not need the full 10 minutes as my wrappers seemed to cook pretty quickly. I in my air fryer. I will definitely make again!
staysnatched says
I'm glad to hear you will make them again.
Lee Ann Guynn says
I cannot count how many times I've made this recipe since you first posted it. My husband and I like these way better than the ones from our take out place! I've learned to watch them closely.. and have perfected them now. Thanks!
staysnatched says
I'm so glad you have perfected them!
Ebony Shelby says
Simply amazing made this recipe for New Years along with some chicken fried rice!!
Not to mention no real cleanup with the air fryer 🙌🏼! The recipe was easy to follow!
staysnatched says
I'm so glad you enjoyed them.
Sharon says
Amazing!
staysnatched says
I'm glad you enjoyed them.
Alden G says
These were so fun to make!! Cant wait to see what else I can cram into a wonton wrapper haha!
staysnatched says
So many things! Even pizza rolls!
Anonymous says
Followed the recipe except I used egg roll wrappers and imitation crab. As soon as I took a bite I could tell they were missing something. Thinking maybe sugar to bring out the crab? Going to try again with lump crab meat and maybe a bit of sugar
staysnatched says
I'm not a fan of imitation crab. Let me know!
Typhanie says
My teenage daughter made these for dinner last night! Her choice. She said they were super easy to make! They were on point! Delish!
staysnatched says
I'm glad they were on point.
Shirley says
Tasted good, but will try deep fried next time.
staysnatched says
Good luck deep frying.
Kashena says
Love this recipe! I have made them a few times now and am wanting to make them for a luncheon at work. Do you think I could prepare the Rangoon’s night before and wait to air fry them until the next day?
staysnatched says
I've never tried it. Maybe. If you try it let me know how it turns out.
Lori says
Mine only took 7 or 8 min. total, and we thought the worcestershire was overpowering even at only a teaspoon. We compensated by using a very sweet honey sauce to dip. Will add more crab and no worcestershire next time.
staysnatched says
Every air fryer cooks at varying speeds. Thanks for sharing.
Julie says
This is the first time I’ve chosen a recipe from this site & WOW. I followed the recipe & instructions to a T, & the filling to the finished result looked exactly like the recipe showed. I make new recipes about twice a week to play up our household’s regular meals. Decided to make these as an appetizer. They weren’t bland, so don’t think I might have just needed some seasoning tweaking.
staysnatched says
It’s interesting that you make new recipes weekly, but didn’t taste the filling first to see if it fit your tastes buds before continuing with the recipe. A good cook knows to taste and make adjustments as they go to suit their taste.
Karen Bernhardt says
Easy peasy lemon squeeze! Brandi's instructions were clear and easy to follow, and the Rangoons were fantastic. Another Stay Snatched success!
staysnatched says
Wonderful! So glad to hear it.
Sandi says
Can you freeze rhese
staysnatched says
Yup!
Caroline says
Hi there! Are these sweet or savory crab rangoon? I prefer the sweet ones, but can't find them anywhere where I live.
staysnatched says
Both. If you like them super sweet, add sugar.
vicky says
I'm wondering how long the crab meat is good for? I bought some 4/34/2023 and the best buy date is till 12/2023. That can't be right
staysnatched says
I use the date on the packaging.
Cindy Ross says
Instead of making it a Rangoon. I made little egg rolls! Absolutely love this. ❤️. Thank you for sharing the recipe with me. Also I didn't even need a dipping sauce!
staysnatched says
I’m so glad to hear it!
H Ny says
Timing seemed too long at 370. First batch I waited10 minutes to flip them, plus 2 min after flipping. Too crispy almost burnt. So I cooked the second batch about 8 min then flipped for total 10 minutes. Perfect!
staysnatched says
Glad to hear it, you should always use the cook time that makes sense for your air fryer model and brand.
Kim T says
My first effort and fabulous! Next time I'll do a sprinkle of 5 spice powder. Mine started to explode so I cut the heat back. My roomies were just blown away!
staysnatched says
So glad they were blown away!
Mrs Coach says
These were great. I have a new, drawer style Ninja air fryer. Cooked them at 360 for about 5 minutes and they were perfect.
staysnatched says
So glad to hear it!
Tracie says
Very good and surprised how well they turned out. I put them together and ran out of time to cook them so I froze them. When I was ready to cook I sprayed them with oil spray and cooked them for 10 minutes then flipped and cooked another 10 minutes and flipped again for 5. Very tasty and good. Served with seafood sauce. Will be making again. Thanks.
DriveByCommenter says
Multiple references to a "video"
No link to a video whatsoever on this page...
staysnatched says
It's embedded at the top of the post. I don't know how you missed it.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CfKv_VVF2Kd/