These Savory Reuben Egg Rolls take all the best parts of a Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing—and wrap them up in a crispy egg roll shell. It’s the perfect appetizer for parties, game day, or when you want something fun and satisfying. These crispy egg rolls combine the savory, tangy flavors of the classic deli sandwich with a crunchy twist.
Savory Reuben Egg Rolls
I love making these Reuben egg rolls because they’re a creative way to enjoy the flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a handheld, crispy form. The corned beef and sauerkraut are balanced perfectly by the creamy Swiss cheese and tangy Thousand Island dressing. They’re ideal for serving as an appetizer at a party or a fun snack for game day. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a side of extra dressing for dipping!
These egg rolls are great alongside other finger foods like Homemade Beef Lo Mein Recipe or Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs Recipe for a delicious appetizer spread.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Reuben Egg Rolls Recipe
- Creative and Fun: A unique twist on a classic sandwich that’s perfect for appetizers or snacks.
- Crispy and Flavorful: The egg roll wrapper adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melty cheese and savory filling.
- Perfect for Parties: These egg rolls are easy to make, can be prepped ahead, and are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Delicious Dipping Option: Serve them with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping to enhance the classic Reuben flavors.
Main Ingredients for Savory Reuben Egg Rolls
- Corned Beef – The star of the filling, providing that rich, savory flavor you expect from a Reuben.
- Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully inside the egg roll, adding a creamy, nutty flavor.
- Sauerkraut – Adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the corned beef and cheese.
- Thousand Island Dressing – Brings a creamy, tangy element to balance the flavors.
- Egg Roll Wrappers – The crispy shell that holds all the delicious ingredients together.
- Oil for Frying – Essential for getting that golden, crispy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Savory Reuben Egg Rolls Recipe
Here’s how to make these crispy and flavorful Reuben egg rolls step by step:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop 1/2 pound of corned beef into small pieces, shred 1 cup of Swiss cheese, and drain 1 cup of sauerkraut, squeezing out any excess liquid.
- Tip: You can use leftover corned beef or deli-sliced corned beef for convenience.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you (like a diamond shape). Spread 1 tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing in the center of the wrapper. Add a layer of chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut.
- Pro Tip: Be careful not to overfill the egg rolls to prevent them from bursting during frying.
- Roll the Egg Rolls: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll the wrapper tightly toward the top corner, sealing the edges with a dab of water or beaten egg to hold it in place.
- Tip: Make sure the egg rolls are sealed well to avoid any leaks while frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Pro Tip: Frying at the correct temperature ensures the egg rolls become golden and crispy without absorbing too much oil.
- Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully lower the egg rolls into the hot oil, frying 3-4 at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Tip: If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the egg rolls at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or air-fry them for a similar crispy result.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serving Idea: Serve with extra Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard for dipping.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
- Use Pastrami: If you prefer, you can swap the corned beef for pastrami for a different flavor twist.
- How to Store: Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
- How to Freeze: You can freeze the uncooked egg rolls by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Fry them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Health Benefits of Savory Reuben Egg Rolls
While these egg rolls are an indulgent treat, you can make them lighter by baking or air frying instead of deep frying. Corned beef is a good source of protein, and sauerkraut provides probiotics that are beneficial for gut health. By using a small amount of cheese and opting for healthier cooking methods, you can enjoy these egg rolls as a delicious but balanced appetizer.
- High in Protein: Corned beef provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Probiotic Benefits: Sauerkraut is rich in probiotics, which support gut health and digestion.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: Baking or air frying these egg rolls can reduce the fat content while still keeping them crispy and delicious.
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