Craving the bold flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich but want to shake things up? These Reuben Egg Rolls are here to blow your mind! Imagine all the savory goodness of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing wrapped in a crispy egg roll shell. It’s a game-changing appetizer or party snack that combines the best of both worlds—comfort food meets crunch. Let’s get rolling!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked corned beef , finely chopped (store-bought or homemade works!)
- 1 cup sauerkraut , drained and squeezed dry
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ¼ cup Thousand Island dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for that authentic rye bread vibe)
For Assembly:
- 12 egg roll wrappers (available in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores)
- 2 tablespoons water (for sealing the wrappers)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, or use an air fryer for a lighter option)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Your Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and caraway seeds (if using). Mix everything together until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—though this combo is already bursting with flavor!
Pro Tip: If your sauerkraut is particularly salty, give it a quick rinse before adding it to the mix.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay out an egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape on a clean surface.
- Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center of the wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing tricky.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides toward the center. Roll it up tightly like a burrito.
- Use your finger to dab a bit of water along the top edge of the wrapper, then press firmly to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Tip for Success: Keep assembled egg rolls covered with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out while you work.
Step 3: Cook ‘Em Up
There are two ways to cook these bad boys—choose your favorite method:
Frying Method (Crispiest Results):
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place 2–3 egg rolls into the hot oil, seam side down, and fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Air Fryer Method (Lighter Option):
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush the egg rolls with vegetable oil or spray them with cooking spray.
- Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd!).
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Serve with Style
Serve your Reuben Egg Rolls hot with a side of Thousand Island dressing or extra spicy brown mustard for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color. These bite-sized wonders are perfect for game day, parties, or just because you’re feeling fancy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavor Explosion: Every bite delivers the tangy, cheesy, meaty goodness of a Reuben sandwich.
- Crisp Meets Creamy: The crunchy egg roll shell contrasts beautifully with the melty, savory filling.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Skip the Drain: Make sure your sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid soggy egg rolls.
- Seal Tight: A secure seal ensures no filling leaks out during cooking. Water is your best friend here!
- Double Dip: Leftover Thousand Island dressing makes a killer dip for these egg rolls.
These Reuben Egg Rolls are proof that sometimes the best recipes come from thinking outside the bun. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, fire up the fryer (or air fryer), and get ready to enjoy a snack that’s equal parts nostalgic and innovative.
