Imagine biting into a golden, crispy Reuben Egg Roll, where the crunch gives way to a savory blend of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air, enticing you with hints of dill and a zesty dressing that promises to elevate every bite—perfect for game day or a cozy evening in.
These delightful morsels evoke memories of family gatherings where laughter fills the room and everyone eagerly reaches for more. With each roll, there’s a sense of nostalgia for those comforting flavors we all know and love, making these Reuben Egg Rolls not just a dish but a celebration of good times and great company. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have you craving these crunchy treats long after the last bite!
Why Does Everyone Love Reuben Egg Rolls?
Crispy perfection awaits you with every bite of these delightful Reuben Egg Rolls! Packed with flavor, the combination of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. Easy to make, these rolls can be whipped up in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Versatile enough, they can be served as a main dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. Each crispy bite is sure to become a favorite that you’ll want to keep making again and again!
Ingredients for Reuben Egg Rolls
For the Filling
- 2 cups shredded corned beef – Tender and flavorful, this is the star of your Reuben Egg Rolls that brings savory satisfaction.
- 1 cup sauerkraut (drained and chopped) – Adds a tangy crunch that perfectly balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese – Melts beautifully, providing creamy texture and a nutty flavor to your egg rolls.
- 1/4 cup thousand island dressing – This classic dressing gives a zesty kick and enhances the overall taste of the filling.
Egg Roll Wrappers
- 10 egg roll wrappers – These will encase your delicious filling, frying up crispy and golden for the perfect bite.
For Frying
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying) – Essential for achieving that crispy exterior; choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for best results.
Step-by-Step Reuben Egg Rolls
1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded corned beef, 1 cup of drained and chopped sauerkraut, 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, and 1/4 cup of thousand island dressing. Mix well until everything is evenly blended.
2. Prepare Wrappers: Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Add about 2 tablespoons of the delicious filling to the center of the wrapper for that perfect bite.
3. Roll Tightly: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tucking it in gently. Then, fold in the sides and roll up tightly to secure all those tasty ingredients. Seal the edge with a little water to keep everything inside.
4. Heat Oil: In a frying pan, heat 2 cups of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering—this should take about 5 minutes. Be careful not to overheat!
5. Fry Egg Rolls: Carefully add the prepared egg rolls in batches to the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy—a delightful sight indeed! Remove them and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve Warm: Serve your Reuben Egg Rolls warm with additional thousand island dressing for dipping, enhancing those bold flavors perfectly!
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Reuben Egg Rolls
- Drain Sauerkraut Well: Make sure to thoroughly drain and chop the sauerkraut to avoid soggy egg rolls that can break during frying.
- Seal Edges Carefully: To prevent filling from leaking out, seal the edges of your egg rolls tightly with water before frying.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the egg rolls in small batches; overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, making them greasy instead of crispy.
- Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer or drop a small piece of leftover wrapper into the oil; it should bubble and float when ready for frying.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded corned beef and high-quality Swiss cheese enhance flavor, ensuring your Reuben Egg Rolls are delicious and satisfying.
How to Store and Freeze Reuben Egg Rolls
- Fridge: Store leftover Reuben Egg Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the filling fresh while preventing sogginess.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked egg rolls by laying them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy your Reuben Egg Rolls, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until crispy.
- Thawing: If you prefer cooking them after freezing, thaw in the fridge overnight before frying for best results.
Reuben Egg Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun twists and swaps!
- Turkey Twist: Substitute shredded turkey for corned beef for a lighter take that still packs a flavor punch. This variation is perfect for using up holiday leftovers while keeping the spirit of the classic Reuben alive.
- Vegan Delight: Swap corned beef with shredded jackfruit and use vegan cheese for a plant-based option. You’ll still enjoy that savory richness, making it a delightful surprise for everyone at the table.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra layer of heat. Just a little spice can elevate these rolls from comforting to exciting, giving them that zing everyone will love.
- Crunchy Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or carrots into the mixture for added crunch and flavor. This twist introduces fresh textures, making every bite more interesting and satisfying.
- Smoky Flavor: Mix in some smoked paprika or use smoked Swiss cheese instead of regular Swiss for a depth of flavor. The smoky undertones will beautifully complement the other ingredients, creating a uniquely delicious experience.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill or caraway seeds to the filling to enhance the traditional flavors of a Reuben. These aromatic herbs will not only brighten up your egg rolls but also add an elegant touch that’s sure to impress.
- Cheesy Boost: Combine different types of cheese, like provolone or pepper jack, with Swiss for a creamy, melty filling. This combination adds richness and complexity, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Saucy Surprise: Experiment with different dressings like ranch or blue cheese instead of thousand island dressing for varied flavor profiles. Each alternative brings its own personality to the dish, ensuring there’s something new every time you make them.
Make Ahead Options
Reuben Egg Rolls are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful crunch and savory filling any day of the week. You can prepare the filling—comprising 2 cups of shredded corned beef, 1 cup of chopped sauerkraut, 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, and 1/4 cup of thousand island dressing—a full 24 hours in advance. Once mixed, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the egg rolls with the wrappers and seal them with water; they can be prepped up to 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry them in hot vegetable oil until golden brown and crispy, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh Reuben Egg Rolls that taste just as good as when you made them!
Reuben Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of corned beef should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor, opt for high-quality, shredded corned beef. You can use leftover corned beef from a traditional dinner or purchase pre-shredded varieties. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and tender to maintain that classic Reuben taste!
Can I substitute sauerkraut with something else?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, you can try using coleslaw mix for a crunchier texture. However, keep in mind that the tangy flavor of sauerkraut is essential to achieving that authentic Reuben essence.
How should I store leftover egg rolls?
To keep your crispy egg rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crunchiness.
Can I freeze the egg rolls before frying?
Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and freeze them before frying. Just place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
What if my egg rolls are leaking during frying?
If you notice leaks while frying, it’s likely that they weren’t sealed tightly enough. Be sure to moisten the edges with water before sealing each roll thoroughly. If they still leak, don’t worry; they will still taste delicious!
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 4 servings, with each serving containing around 250 calories. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as a snack during your next gathering!
Reuben Egg Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing. Mix well.
- Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing towards you. Add 2 tablespoons of the filling to the center.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Seal the edge with a little water.
- In a frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the egg rolls in batches.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with additional thousand island dressing for dipping.
