If you love the bold flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, you’re in for a treat with these Savory Reuben Egg Rolls! They take everything you adore—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing—wrap it all in a crispy egg roll wrapper, and fry it to golden perfection. Each bite is an irresistible combination of crunch, creaminess, and satisfying flavor.
A Crunchy Twist on the Classic Reuben
The Reuben sandwich is a deli favorite, known for its rich flavors and satisfying textures. But why not give it a fun, crispy makeover? These egg rolls are a creative way to enjoy the traditional Reuben in a handheld, dippable form. Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, or just a unique snack, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Savory Reuben Egg Rolls make an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. They come together easily, requiring just a few simple steps to roll, seal, and fry. Serve them hot and crispy with a side of extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping, and you have a dish that’s both fun to eat and incredibly delicious
Ingredients for Savory Reuben Egg Rolls
To create these crispy and flavorful Savory Reuben Egg Rolls, you’ll need just a handful of classic ingredients that bring out the best in this dish.
- Egg Roll Wrappers (12 pieces) – These thin, delicate wrappers crisp up beautifully when fried, giving the perfect crunch to every bite.
- Corned Beef (1 lb, thinly sliced) – The star of the show! Corned beef provides a rich, salty, and slightly tangy flavor that defines a Reuben.
- Sauerkraut (1 cup, drained) – The tangy bite of sauerkraut balances the richness of the meat and cheese, adding a nice texture and acidity.
- Swiss Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts perfectly inside the egg roll, delivering the creamy, nutty taste that pairs so well with corned beef.
- Thousand Island Dressing (1/4 cup, plus extra for dipping) – This creamy, tangy dressing ties all the flavors together, both inside and as a dipping sauce.
- Egg (1, beaten for sealing) – Helps seal the egg rolls so they stay intact while frying.
- Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior that makes these egg rolls irresistible.
How to Make Savory Reuben Egg Rolls
Making these crispy Reuben Egg Rolls is simple, and the process is both fun and rewarding. Follow these steps for the perfect crunch:
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area
Set up a clean, dry surface for assembling the egg rolls. Keep the egg roll wrappers, fillings, and beaten egg within easy reach.
Step 2: Lay Out the Wrappers
Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, positioning it like a diamond with one corner pointing toward you.
Step 3: Add the Fillings
In the center of the wrapper, layer a slice of corned beef, a spoonful of drained sauerkraut, and a generous sprinkle of Swiss cheese. Drizzle a small amount of Thousand Island dressing over the top.
Step 4: Fold and Roll
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling.
- Fold in the two side corners to create an envelope shape.
- Roll the wrapper tightly toward the top corner.
- Brush the top corner with beaten egg to seal.
Step 5: Repeat the Process
Continue rolling the remaining egg rolls until all the wrappers and fillings are used.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when an egg roll is added.
Step 7: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, frying in small batches. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping
How Long to Fry Reuben Egg Rolls
The key to perfectly crispy Reuben Egg Rolls is frying them at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. If the oil is too hot, they can burn before the inside gets properly heated. If it’s too cool, they might absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Frying Temperature: 350°F (175°C) is the ideal temperature for frying. Use a thermometer to maintain consistent heat.
- Frying Time: Cook the egg rolls for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in small batches so each egg roll cooks evenly.
If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dipping the edge of an egg roll wrapper in. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
How to Store Leftover Reuben Egg Rolls
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—these egg rolls store well and can be reheated for another crispy bite later.
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Place cooled egg rolls in an airtight container.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Freezing for Later
- Wrap each egg roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat frozen egg rolls directly in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Tips for Perfect Reuben Egg Rolls
To ensure your egg rolls come out crispy, flavorful, and delicious every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Drain the Sauerkraut Well – Excess moisture from sauerkraut can make the wrappers soggy. Pat it dry with paper towels before assembling.
- Roll Tightly – Loose rolls can burst open while frying. Make sure to fold in the sides and roll tightly to keep everything intact.
- Use Fresh Oil – Old or reused oil can give the egg rolls an off-flavor. Always use fresh vegetable oil for the best taste.
- Cool Before Serving – Let the egg rolls rest for a couple of minutes after frying. This allows the filling to set and prevents burns from hot cheese.
- Experiment with Cheese – While Swiss cheese is classic, you can also try mozzarella for extra meltiness or provolone for a sharper taste
Savory Reuben Egg Rolls – A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 egg rolls 1x
Description
These Savory Reuben Egg Rolls are a crispy and delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Stuffed with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, then fried to golden perfection, these egg rolls are the perfect appetizer or snack. Serve them with extra dressing for dipping, and enjoy a crunchy, flavor-packed bite!
Ingredients
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Extra Thousand Island dressing (for dipping)
Instructions
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, positioning it like a diamond with one corner facing you.
- Place a slice of corned beef in the center of the wrapper.
- Add a spoonful of drained sauerkraut and a sprinkle of Swiss cheese on top.
- Drizzle a small amount of Thousand Island dressing over the fillings.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly.
- Brush the top corner with beaten egg to seal the egg roll.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and fillings.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the egg rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For a baked version, brush the egg rolls with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- To air-fry, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
- Freezing: Wrap each egg roll in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake Reuben Egg Rolls instead of frying them?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake them instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush them with vegetable oil or spray with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Can I air-fry Reuben Egg Rolls?
Absolutely! Air frying is a great alternative to deep frying. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray them with oil for extra crispiness. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden and crispy when done.
3. What’s the best way to prevent egg rolls from getting soggy?
To keep your Reuben Egg Rolls crispy, follow these tips:
- Drain the sauerkraut well – Excess moisture can make the wrappers soggy. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Don’t overfill – Too much filling can cause the wrappers to tear and absorb oil.
- Fry at the right temperature – If the oil is too cool, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil. Keep it at 350°F (175°C).
- Let them drain properly – After frying, place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy.
4. What dipping sauces go well with Reuben Egg Rolls?
The classic Thousand Island dressing is the go-to dipping sauce for these egg rolls, but you can also try:
- Spicy Mustard – Adds a little heat and tanginess.
- Russian Dressing – Similar to Thousand Island but with a bolder, spicier kick.
- Horseradish Sauce – A creamy, zesty option that complements the corned beef