Crispy Reuben Egg Rolls: The Ultimate Party Appetizer Recipe
Prepare to revolutionize your appetizer game with these incredibly delicious Reuben Egg Rolls! Imagine the quintessential flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich – succulent corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and rich, melty Swiss cheese – all snugly tucked into a crispy, golden egg roll wrapper. This ingenious fusion creates an irresistible bite-sized delight that’s perfect for any gathering, from casual game nights to festive holiday parties. Deep-fried to a beautiful golden crisp and served with a side of creamy Thousand Island or Russian dressing, these savory parcels are guaranteed to disappear in minutes. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy those comfort food cravings with this easy-to-follow, mouthwatering recipe.
Why These Reuben Egg Rolls Are a Must-Try
This recipe brilliantly reimagines the beloved Reuben sandwich by swapping out the traditional rye bread for a crispy, satisfying egg roll wrapper. It’s not just a simple substitution; it’s a game-changer! The delicate, shatteringly crisp exterior of the egg roll wrapper provides an incredible textural contrast to the warm, gooey filling within. You get the familiar, comforting flavors of tender corned beef, savory Swiss cheese, and the unmistakable zest of sauerkraut, all packed into a convenient, handheld format.
These Reuben Egg Rolls are more than just a novelty; they truly shine as a party appetizer. They’re easy to prepare in advance, can be fried quickly when guests arrive, and are incredibly versatile. Plus, with just a handful of core ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how such simple components combine to create such a sophisticated and flavorful dish. Don’t forget the essential dipping companion – a generous dollop of creamy Thousand Island or Russian dressing – which ties all the classic Reuben elements together perfectly. Each bite delivers that iconic taste experience, but with an exciting, crispy twist that will have everyone reaching for more!
Essential Ingredients for Your Reuben Egg Rolls
Crafting these delectable Reuben Egg Rolls requires just a few key components. While the full measurements and detailed instructions are available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, let’s take a moment to discuss the star ingredients that make this appetizer truly special.
Deep Dive into the Ingredients & Smart Substitutions and Tips
Each component plays a vital role in achieving that authentic Reuben flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips for each.
- CORNED BEEF: The heart of any Reuben! You have a couple of options here. If you’ve recently enjoyed a corned beef dinner, leftover corned beef, finely chopped or shredded, works beautifully and is an excellent way to use up those delicious remnants. Alternatively, you can pick up thinly sliced corned beef from your local deli counter. Ensure it’s chopped into small, manageable pieces so it distributes evenly and doesn’t tear the wrapper.
- SAUERKRAUT: This fermented cabbage provides the crucial tangy, salty counterpoint that defines the Reuben. Before adding it to your egg rolls, it’s absolutely essential to drain the sauerkraut thoroughly. Excess moisture can make your egg rolls soggy and prevent them from crisping up properly. You can press it between paper towels or use a fine-mesh sieve to remove as much liquid as possible.
- CHEESE: Swiss cheese is non-negotiable for a classic Reuben experience. Its nutty, slightly sweet, and wonderfully melty properties are what create that irresistible gooey center. You can opt for pre-shredded Swiss cheese for convenience, or purchase a block and shred it yourself for potentially better melting quality. Freshly shredded cheese often contains fewer anti-caking agents, leading to a creamier melt.
- EGG ROLL WRAPPERS: This is a critical distinction! For this recipe, make sure you specifically use egg roll wrappers, not wonton wrappers. Egg roll wrappers are significantly larger and thicker, designed to hold a more substantial filling without tearing. Their sturdy nature ensures they can withstand the deep-frying process, crisping up beautifully to a golden brown. Wonton wrappers, being smaller and thinner, are not suitable as they would likely burst or become overly greasy.
- WATER: A simple yet essential element for sealing your egg rolls. A dab of water acts as a glue, ensuring the wrappers stay tightly closed during frying, preventing any delicious filling from escaping.
- VEGETABLE OIL FOR FRYING: Choose a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. The oil needs to be deep enough to submerge the egg rolls, ensuring even cooking and a perfectly crisp texture. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to success.
Step-by-Step: How to Craft the Perfect Reuben Egg Rolls
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
Making Reuben Egg Rolls is a straightforward process, but a few key techniques ensure perfect results. Follow these steps carefully for crispy, flavor-packed appetizers every time.
- Begin by preparing your workspace. Lay a single egg roll wrapper flat on a clean, dry surface, oriented like a diamond (with one corner pointing towards you). This orientation makes folding much easier.
- In the center of the wrapper, add about 1 tablespoon of your thoroughly drained sauerkraut. Don’t overdo it! Spreading it slightly helps with even distribution of flavor.
- Next, place approximately 2 tablespoons of chopped corned beef directly on top of the sauerkraut. Again, keep the filling centered and avoid piling it too high.
- Finally, crown the corned beef with about 1 tablespoon of shredded Swiss cheese. This order ensures the cheese melts beautifully into the other ingredients.
TIP – Overfilling is the enemy of a perfect egg roll! Stick to the recommended quantities; otherwise, the wrappers may burst during frying, and the delicious filling will ooze out.
- To begin folding, take the bottom corner of the wrapper (the one closest to you) and fold it up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly. This forms the initial, secure base of your egg roll.
- Next, fold the left and right side corners inward towards the center, overlapping them slightly over the folded bottom portion. Ensure these folds are snug against the filling to create a compact package. Use your fingertips to gently press the filling together as you fold.
- Dampen the remaining top edge of the wrapper with a small amount of water. This creates a seal. Then, tightly roll the egg roll upwards from the bottom, ensuring all sides remain tucked. The water will help seal the final flap securely in place.
- Continue this wrapping process until all your delicious Reuben Egg Rolls are assembled. Lay them seam-side down on a plate or baking sheet to prevent them from unraveling while you prepare for frying.
- In a deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven, heat your vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer or a deep-fry thermometer to ensure accuracy. Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is crucial for evenly cooked and crispy egg rolls. If the oil is too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy; too hot, and they’ll burn before the inside is properly heated.
- Carefully use tongs to place a few egg rolls, seam-side down first, into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy results. Fry for about 3 minutes per side, or until they reach a beautiful golden brown and are visibly crispy.
- Once golden and cooked through, remove the egg rolls from the oil using tongs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps them stay crisp. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions & Pro Tips for Success
To maintain their best quality, store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy. For optimal crispness, I highly recommend reheating them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in a conventional oven at the same temperature until warmed through and crispy. This method brings them back to their delicious, freshly-fried state.
Absolutely! Reuben Egg Rolls freeze beautifully, whether cooked or uncooked, making them an excellent make-ahead option.
To freeze uncooked egg rolls: Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a large freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before frying as per the recipe instructions.
To freeze cooked egg rolls: Allow them to cool completely after frying. Then, place them in an airtight container or a large zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and crispy.
Yes, you can! While deep frying provides the crispiest result, baking or air frying are great alternatives for a slightly lighter option.
For Air Frying: Lightly spray the uncooked egg rolls with cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush or spray the uncooked egg rolls with vegetable oil. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden brown and crisp.
There are a few key tips to prevent bursting:
- Don’t Overfill: This is the most common reason for bursting. Stick to the recommended filling amounts.
- Roll Tightly: A snug roll ensures the wrapper forms a strong barrier around the filling.
- Seal Properly: Use a little water to thoroughly seal the edges of the wrapper.
- Correct Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the wrapper cooks too quickly and can crack. If it’s too cold, the egg roll sits in the oil for too long, potentially absorbing too much oil and falling apart. Maintain 350°F (175°C).
Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Place the uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows them to firm up slightly. You can also follow the freezing instructions above for longer storage.
Perfect Pairing: Serving Your Delicious Reuben Egg Rolls
These savory Reuben Egg Rolls are best enjoyed warm, right after frying, when their crispy exterior and gooey interior are at their peak. The absolute classic accompaniment is, of course, a creamy and zesty Thousand Island dressing. Its sweet and tangy notes perfectly complement the richness of the corned beef and Swiss cheese, and the sourness of the sauerkraut. If you prefer a slightly spicier kick, Russian dressing is another fantastic choice that offers a similar creamy base with a bolder flavor profile.
Beyond the dipping sauce, these egg rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them as the star appetizer for game day gatherings, a unique treat for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, or simply as an exciting party snack that will have everyone talking. They can also make a fantastic, light lunch when paired with a simple green salad. For an elevated presentation, arrange them artfully on a platter, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or finely chopped chives, alongside a small bowl of your chosen dipping sauce. No matter how you serve them, these Reuben Egg Rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
More Irresistible Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved these Reuben Egg Rolls, you’re in for a treat! The world of comfort food and creative twists is vast and exciting. Here are some more related recipes from our kitchen that we think you’ll absolutely adore. Whether you’re a fan of classic Reuben flavors or enjoy innovative appetizers, these dishes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
- Reuben Dip
- Reuben Sandwich
- Reuben Casserole
- Corned Beef Hash
- Wonton Cheese Sticks
- Big Mac Egg Rolls
- Corned Beef Egg Rolls
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Reuben Egg Rolls
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 7 egg roll wrappers
- 4 ounces sauerkraut
- 1 cup leftover corned beef chopped. or deli corned beef
- ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
- water
- vegetable oil for frying
Things You’ll Need
-
Large deep sided skillet
-
Tongs
-
Deep-fry thermometer (recommended)
Before You Begin
- We used leftover corned beef, but you can also get thinly sliced corned beef from the deli counter. Make sure it’s chopped into small pieces.
- Be sure to use egg roll wrappers for this recipe, not wonton wrappers. Egg roll wrappers are larger and sturdier, designed to hold the generous filling and crisp up perfectly.
- Thoroughly drain your sauerkraut to prevent soggy egg rolls and ensure maximum crispness. Press out as much liquid as possible.
- Do not overfill the wrappers, or they may tear or burst during frying. Stick to the recommended measurements for a perfect seal.
- Store any leftover cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in an air fryer or oven to restore crispness (microwave will make them soggy).
- You can freeze these Reuben egg rolls either cooked or uncooked. To freeze uncooked, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before frying. Cooked egg rolls can be frozen in an airtight container, thawed overnight, and reheated in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy.
Instructions
-
Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean work surface, oriented like a diamond.
-
Add 1 tablespoon of thoroughly drained sauerkraut to the center of the wrapper.
-
Place 2 tablespoons of chopped corned beef on top of the sauerkraut.
-
Finish by adding 1 tablespoon of shredded Swiss cheese on top of the corned beef. (Remember not to overfill!)
-
Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly.
-
Fold the left and right side corners inward towards the center, overlapping them slightly and pressing gently against the filling.
-
Dampen the remaining top edge of the wrapper with water, then tightly roll the egg roll upwards to seal it completely.
-
Repeat the filling and folding steps for all remaining egg roll wrappers.
-
Heat vegetable oil in a deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
-
Carefully place egg rolls, seam side down, into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3 minutes until golden brown, then turn and cook for an additional 3 minutes or until golden and crispy all over.
Remove cooked egg rolls with tongs and drain on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with Thousand Island or Russian dressing.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.