Reuben Remix Egg Rolls

Imagine the iconic flavors of a beloved deli classic – the Reuben sandwich – transformed into an exciting, crispy, and utterly addictive appetizer. That’s exactly what you get with these phenomenal Reuben Egg Rolls! This recipe takes everything you adore about the traditional Reuben and packages it into a golden-fried, handheld delight that promises to be a showstopper at any gathering.

Each crunchy egg roll is generously stuffed with thinly sliced, savory corned beef, rich and melty Swiss cheese, and perfectly drained, tangy sauerkraut. Once fried to golden perfection, these culinary marvels are ready to be dunked into a creamy, zesty Thousand Island dip. The combination of textures and tastes creates a symphony on your palate, making it impossible to stop at just one.

While Reuben egg rolls have become a staple on many gastropub and bar menus across the country, my personal journey with this crunchy appetizer began at the charming Voyager Brewing Company in Grand Marais, MN. The memory of them arriving at the table, steamy hot and exquisitely crunchy, accompanied by their signature homemade Thousand Island dressing, was unforgettable. From that moment, I knew I had to master the art of recreating them at home.

And recreate them I did! Without fail, every time I serve these remarkably easy Reuben egg rolls, I am inundated with requests for the recipe. They are incredibly straightforward to prepare, making them an ideal choice for a festive St. Patrick’s Day celebration, an exciting game day spread, or simply a fun and unique meal any time of the year when you crave something extraordinary.

If you’re seeking an innovative departure from the classic Reuben sandwich, look no further. This recipe is an absolute must-try. The process is simple: assemble the fillings, expertly roll them into wrappers, fry until golden and crispy, and serve immediately for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Why You Will Love These Reuben Egg Rolls

There are countless reasons why these Reuben egg rolls have become a fan favorite. First and foremost, they offer a delightful textural contrast. The exterior is incredibly crisp, providing that satisfying crunch with every bite, while the interior remains warm, gooey, and bursting with flavor. It’s a fun and unexpected twist on traditional comfort food that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Beyond the taste, their ease of preparation makes them a fantastic choice for home cooks. With minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these impressive appetizers that look and taste like they came from a gourmet kitchen. They’re also incredibly versatile, perfect for various occasions from casual family dinners to more formal potlucks and holiday gatherings. Plus, the convenience of being able to prepare them ahead of time or freeze them for later enjoyment adds to their appeal, simplifying party planning considerably.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Reuben Egg Rolls

Crafting the perfect Reuben egg roll relies on a selection of high-quality ingredients that honor the classic sandwich profile. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:

• Egg Roll Wrappers: These are the foundation of your crispy creation. You’ll typically find them in the refrigerated produce section of your local grocery store. Look for fresh, pliable wrappers that won’t crack easily when folded. Their ability to fry up golden and perfectly crisp is key to the egg roll experience.
• Corned Beef: The heart of any Reuben-inspired dish. For these egg rolls, thinly sliced corned beef is essential. Whether you’re using fresh deli meat or repurposing leftover corned beef from a holiday meal, ensure it’s finely shredded or chopped into small pieces. This ensures even distribution and makes the egg rolls easier to roll and eat.
• Swiss Cheese: The quintessential cheese for a Reuben, Swiss cheese brings a wonderful melty, nutty, and slightly tangy flavor. Opt for good quality Swiss cheese slices that melt beautifully to create that gooey, irresistible texture inside the fried wrapper. Provolone or Gruyere can also be delicious alternatives if you’re looking to experiment.
• Sauerkraut: This fermented cabbage adds the signature tang and slight crunch that balances the richness of the corned beef and cheese. The most critical step here is to drain and squeeze the sauerkraut exceptionally well. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness and can lead to soggy egg rolls. Use a cheesecloth or sturdy paper towels to press out as much liquid as possible before incorporating it into your filling.
• Thousand Island Dressing: No Reuben is complete without its iconic dressing, and these egg rolls are no exception. This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce serves as the perfect dipping companion. While store-bought options are convenient, making your own Thousand Island dressing from mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet relish, a touch of onion, and a dash of hot sauce (or Worcestershire) truly elevates the experience with its fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Oil for Frying: A neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point is ideal for deep frying. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the egg rolls, typically 3-4 inches deep in a sturdy 6-quart pot or deep fryer, to achieve that even, golden crisp.
• Water: A small amount of water is used to seal the egg roll wrappers, ensuring your delicious filling stays securely inside during frying.

Creative Ingredient Variations and Swaps

While the classic Reuben egg roll recipe is a masterpiece in its own right, don’t hesitate to put your unique spin on it! The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. Here are some fantastic ideas to get your creativity flowing and tailor these egg rolls to your taste preferences:

• Turn Them into Rachels: For a delicious alternative, swap out the corned beef for thinly sliced chicken or turkey. This transforms them into “Rachel” egg rolls, offering a lighter yet equally flavorful experience. You could also try turkey pastrami for a smoky depth or even leftover beef brisket for an incredibly rich and tender filling.
• Cheese Alternatives: Not a fan of Swiss cheese? No problem! Almost any good melting cheese will work beautifully. Consider using sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or smoked gouda for a sophisticated, smoky twist. Provolone is another excellent choice for its mild flavor and superior melt.
• Wrapper Wonders: If traditional egg roll wrappers are hard to come by, or you simply want to make a smaller bite-sized appetizer, wonton wrappers are a fantastic substitute. They’re smaller, creating adorable mini Reuben bites that are perfect for a party platter. Just remember to adjust frying times accordingly, as they will cook much faster.
• Sauerkraut Alternatives: If sauerkraut isn’t your favorite, or you’re looking for a slightly different tang, consider using finely chopped dill pickles or even a homemade coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing (ensuring it’s well-drained).
• Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your filling or serving with a side of spicy mustard or Sriracha-infused Thousand Island dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions for Reuben Egg Rolls

Here are answers to some common questions that arise when making these delectable Reuben egg rolls:

Can I make these Reuben egg rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing them in advance is a fantastic way to streamline your cooking process. You can assemble the egg rolls up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before frying or baking. This prevents a drastic temperature change that could affect cooking consistency.

Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, you certainly can! Baking offers a lighter alternative to deep frying without sacrificing too much crispiness. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the assembled egg rolls with cooking spray or brush them with a thin layer of oil. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy. An air fryer is also an excellent option for a similar result, typically cooking at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping once.

What other dipping sauces can I use?

While Thousand Island dressing is the classic accompaniment, feel free to explore other dipping sauces to complement these savory egg rolls. A homemade Russian dressing (which is similar to Thousand Island but typically includes horseradish and chili sauce) offers a slightly different zest. Spicy brown mustard provides a sharp, pungent contrast, while your favorite hot sauce can add a fiery kick. For a surprisingly delicious pairing, even a smoky BBQ sauce can offer a unique and satisfying flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Storage and Freezer Directions

Having leftover Reuben egg rolls is a rare treat, but if you do, proper storage ensures they remain delicious for another day. To keep cooked egg rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and crispy again.

To freeze cooked Reuben egg rolls: Allow them to cool completely after frying. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for approximately one hour, or until firm. Once frozen, transfer the egg rolls to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

What to Serve with Reuben Egg Rolls for a Complete Meal

These Reuben egg rolls are undeniably delicious on their own as a standalone appetizer. However, if you’re looking to transform them into a more substantial and satisfying meal, here are some excellent pairing suggestions:

• Creamy Pasta Salad: The cool, creamy, and tangy flavors of a Dill Pickle Pasta Salad provide a refreshing contrast to the warm and savory egg rolls. The dill and pickle notes echo the tangy sauerkraut within the egg rolls, creating a harmonious meal.
• Golden Fries: For a classic comfort food combination, serve your Reuben egg rolls alongside a batch of crispy fries. Our recipe for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries offers a flavorful and slightly healthier option, adding an extra layer of garlicky goodness to your plate.
• Hearty Soup: Elevate the comforting nature of these egg rolls by serving them with a warm and soothing bowl of soup. A creamy vegetable soup, such as a Roasted Asparagus Soup, would offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making for a truly cozy and satisfying meal.
• Simple Green Salad: For a lighter accompaniment, a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the egg rolls and add a vibrant, crisp element to your meal.

Reuben Egg Rolls Recipe

These Reuben egg rolls are a super fun and easy appetizer that will be an automatic hit at any gathering. It’s got all the classic flavors you love from your favorite sandwich but in delicious and crunchy egg roll form!

By: Linley Hanson

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 9 mins

Total: 24 mins

Servings: 6

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Ingredients

• 6 egg roll wrappers
• 6 oz. thinly sliced corned beef
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 6 oz. sauerkraut, well-drained and squeezed, (~⅔ cup)
• ¼ cup water (for sealing wrappers)
• Oil for frying (e.g., vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
• 1 cup Thousand Island dressing (for serving)

Instructions

1. Begin by heating your frying oil. Pour about 3-4 inches of a neutral-flavored oil (like vegetable or canola) into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy.
2. To assemble each egg roll, lay one egg roll wrapper flat on a clean cutting board or work surface with a corner pointing towards you (diamond shape). Place one slice of Swiss cheese, about 1 ounce of corned beef, and about 1 ounce of well-drained sauerkraut in the center of the wrapper, forming a horizontal line.
   
3. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper tightly over the filling. Then, fold in the two side corners towards the middle, creating an envelope shape. Dip your fingers into the small bowl of water and moisten the top corner of the wrapper. Roll the egg roll tightly from the bottom upwards to completely enclose the filling and seal it firmly. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Carefully place 2-3 assembled egg rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 3 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy on all sides. An overcrowded pot can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy egg rolls.
   
5. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried egg rolls from the pot. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining egg rolls.
6. Serve the hot, crispy Reuben egg rolls immediately with a generous side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping. Enjoy the delightful blend of classic flavors!
   

Tips & Notes for Success

• Oil Quantity: For frying 6 egg rolls, approximately 48 oz. (6 cups) of vegetable oil in a 6-quart pot should provide sufficient depth.
• Preventing Soggy Egg Rolls: The most crucial tip is to thoroughly drain and squeeze your sauerkraut. Excess moisture will make your egg rolls soggy from the inside out.
• Rolling Technique: Practice makes perfect! Ensure your egg rolls are rolled tightly to prevent the filling from escaping during frying.
• Temperature Control: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F (175°C). Too low, and the egg rolls will absorb too much oil; too high, and they’ll brown too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside cool.
• Don’t Overfill: While tempting, overfilling the wrappers can lead to tearing and difficulty in sealing. Stick to the recommended quantities for best results.
• Rachel Egg Rolls: For a delightful variation, substitute the corned beef with thinly sliced chicken or turkey to create “Rachel” egg rolls.

Nutrition

Calories: 404 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 15 g,
Protein: 11 g,
Fat: 33 g,
Fiber: 1 g,
Sugar: 7 g

Note: Nutrition information is an estimate calculated automatically and should be used as an approximation only. Factors such as exact ingredient brands, preparation methods, and serving sizes can vary.