Reuben Egg Rolls

If you love a classic deli sandwich, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Reuben Egg Rolls. They take everything we adore about a traditional Reuben—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing—and wrap it all in a golden, crispy shell. The result? Crunchy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, and completely irresistible.

What makes Reuben Egg Rolls so special is that beautiful contrast of textures. You get that satisfying crackle when you bite in, followed by a rich, cheesy filling that practically melts in your mouth. They’re inspired by the beloved deli favorite but transformed into a fun, handheld appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game day spreads, or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

I first made these for a casual game night with friends, and they disappeared before halftime. Since then, they’ve become my go-to appetizer when I want something comforting yet impressive. Best of all, they’re easy, beginner-friendly, and can be either deep-fried or air-fried—so you can choose what works best for you.

Why You’ll Love These Reuben Egg Rolls

Crispy Outside, Melty Inside

There’s something magical about that first bite. The wrapper turns beautifully golden and crunchy, creating the perfect shell around the filling. Inside, the Swiss cheese melts into the corned beef and sauerkraut, giving you that gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all secretly hope for. It’s a lovely balance of crisp texture and creamy richness that keeps you reaching for “just one more.”

Classic Reuben Flavor in a Fun Twist

All the traditional Reuben flavors are here—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and nutty Swiss cheese. The Thousand Island dressing adds that signature creamy sweetness, while a touch of Dijon mustard gives the filling depth and a gentle kick. It tastes just like your favorite sandwich, but in a crispy, shareable format that feels extra special.

Quick & Easy to Make

From start to finish, these Reuben Egg Rolls come together in about 25 minutes. The filling is simple to mix, the rolling process is straightforward, and the cooking time is short. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, you’ll find this recipe refreshingly easy.

Perfect for Parties & Game Day

These are made for sharing. They’re handheld, mess-free, and incredibly crowd-pleasing. You can easily double the recipe for a larger group, and they stay crispy and delicious when served warm. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual Sunday game, they fit right in.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need, along with why each ingredient matters:

• Egg roll wrappers – These create the crispy outer shell that turns golden and crunchy when fried or air-fried.

• Corned beef (finely chopped) – The savory base of the filling, bringing that classic deli flavor.

• Sauerkraut (drained well) – Adds tangy brightness and slight crunch to balance the richness.

• Swiss cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully, adding creamy, nutty flavor.

• Thousand Island dressing – Provides that signature Reuben sweetness and creaminess.

• Dijon mustard – Adds sharp depth and enhances the savory notes.

• Melted butter – Used for brushing if air frying, helping the wrappers crisp up.

• Fresh parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

• Oil for frying – Essential for achieving that deep golden crisp texture.

Helpful Tips:

• Be sure to squeeze the sauerkraut very dry. Extra moisture can make the egg rolls soggy and prevent them from crisping properly.

• If possible, shred your Swiss cheese from a block. Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties.

• Keep egg roll wrappers covered with a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying out and cracking.

How to Make Reuben Egg Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and drain the sauerkraut thoroughly.
   Place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

2. Mix the filling.
   In a bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Stir until evenly blended.

3. Lay the wrapper in a diamond shape.
   Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you.

4. Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling.
   Spoon the filling into the center, being careful not to overfill.

5. Fold the sides inward.
   Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the left and right sides snugly.

6. Roll tightly and seal.
   Roll upward, keeping it tight, and seal the top edge with a little water to secure.

7. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
   Use a thermometer for accuracy—proper temperature ensures crisp results without greasy egg rolls.

8. Cook your preferred way:

   • Deep Fry: Fry for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

   • Air Fry: Brush lightly with melted butter or oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

9. Drain and rest before serving.
   Transfer to paper towels and let them rest briefly.

Air Fryer vs. Deep Fryer:
Deep frying gives the most traditional, ultra-crispy texture. Air frying is lighter and still wonderfully crisp, with less oil.

Safety Note:
Because the filling is fully cooked, you’re mainly heating it through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Visual Cues:
Look for a rich golden-brown exterior and firm, crisp wrapper.

What to Serve with Reuben Egg Rolls

Suggested Pairings

To turn these into a complete appetizer spread, here are some delicious pairings:

Dips

• Extra Thousand Island dressing

• Russian dressing

• Spicy mustard

• Homemade garlic aioli

Drinks

• Irish beer (especially for St. Patrick’s Day!)

• Light lager

• Sparkling lemonade

• Iced tea

Side Dishes

• Creamy coleslaw

• Pickle spears

• Seasoned potato wedges

• Pub-style fries

These Reuben Egg Rolls are versatile and celebratory—perfect as a starter, snack, or centerpiece on your appetizer table. However you serve them, one thing’s certain: they’ll disappear fast.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the things I love most about these Reuben Egg Rolls is how flexible they are. Once you’ve made them once, you’ll start imagining all kinds of fun twists. Whether you’re looking for something lighter, spicier, or a little more diet-friendly, there’s a version here for you.

Baked Version

If you’d rather skip frying, baking is a wonderful alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the assembled egg rolls seam-side down and lightly brush each one with oil. That little brush of oil helps them turn beautifully golden and crisp. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re evenly browned and crisp on the outside. They won’t be quite as crunchy as deep-fried, but they’re still deliciously satisfying.

Turkey Reuben Egg Rolls

For a lighter twist, swap the corned beef for thinly chopped turkey. You’ll still get that classic Reuben flavor, especially with the sauerkraut and Swiss cheese, but the overall taste will be milder and a bit leaner. This is a great option if you have leftover roasted turkey or simply prefer a less rich filling.

Low-Carb / Keto Option

To make these lower in carbs, try using low-carb wraps instead of traditional egg roll wrappers. Another fun idea is skipping the wrappers altogether and baking the filling in small muffin tins to create “Reuben cups.” You still get all that savory, melty goodness—just without the extra carbs.

Spicy Reuben Egg Rolls

If you enjoy a little heat, this version is for you. Add finely diced jalapeños to the filling, swap Swiss for pepper jack cheese, and stir in a few drops of your favorite hot sauce. The spice balances beautifully with the creamy dressing and savory beef.

Storage Instructions

These Reuben Egg Rolls are at their very best when freshly cooked—hot, crisp, and gooey in the center. But if you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them properly.

Room Temperature Storage

Because they contain meat and cheese, they shouldn’t sit out too long. Enjoy them fresh, and don’t leave them at room temperature for more than 2 hours for food safety.

Refrigeration Tips

Store cooled egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, skip the microwave (it can make them soggy) and use your air fryer or oven instead. A few minutes at 350°F will bring back that lovely crisp exterior.

Freezing Instructions

These freeze beautifully—especially before frying. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (this is called flash freezing). Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, fry or air fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the cooking time. It’s such a convenient make-ahead option for parties or busy evenings.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are some practical tips to help you get perfectly crispy, golden egg rolls every time:

• Squeeze the sauerkraut completely dry. Extra moisture is the number one cause of soggy egg rolls.

• Don’t overfill the wrappers. Two to three tablespoons is just right.

• Seal edges tightly with water. This keeps the filling from leaking during cooking.

• Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). Too low, and they absorb oil. Too high, and they brown too quickly.

• Fry in small batches. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and affects crispiness.

• Let them rest before cutting. This helps the cheese set slightly and keeps the filling from spilling out.

• Use freshly shredded cheese. It melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

• Flip halfway in the air fryer. This ensures even browning on all sides.

• Line the plate with paper towels. This absorbs excess oil after frying.

And remember—even if you’re new to frying, this recipe is wonderfully forgiving. Take your time, follow the steps, and enjoy the process. Before you know it, you’ll be serving up golden, crispy Reuben Egg Rolls like a pro.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Reuben Egg Rolls, you might enjoy these other delicious recipes from Creative Cookery:

• Fried Cheese-Stuffed Doritos – Crispy, cheesy bites that make the ultimate party snack.

• Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup – Rich, comforting, and perfect for pairing with appetizers.

• Classic Chicken with Buttered Noodles – A cozy family dinner favorite that complements party starters beautifully.

FAQs

If you’re making Reuben Egg Rolls for the first time, a few questions might pop up along the way. Don’t worry—I’ve gathered the most common ones right here to help you feel completely confident in the kitchen.

Can Reuben Egg Rolls be made ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely. You can assemble the egg rolls and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 24 hours before frying or air frying. Just place them on a tray, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and keep them chilled. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry or air fry as directed. This makes them perfect for parties when you want to do the prep work ahead of time.

Can I air fry Reuben Egg Rolls instead of deep frying?

Yes! Air frying works beautifully. Brush the egg rolls lightly with oil or melted butter and cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll turn golden and crisp with much less oil, making this a lighter but still delicious option.

Why are my egg rolls soggy?

Soggy egg rolls usually come down to three things:

• Wet sauerkraut – Always squeeze it completely dry.

• Oil too cold – Maintain 350°F for crisp results.

• Overcrowding the pan – Fry in small batches so the temperature stays steady.

A little attention to these details makes all the difference.

What sauce goes with Reuben Egg Rolls?

The classic choice is Thousand Island dressing, but you have options:

• Russian dressing

• Spicy mustard

• Garlic aioli

Each adds its own delicious twist.

Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?

Yes, you can! Pastrami brings a stronger, peppery flavor and works beautifully with the sauerkraut and Swiss cheese. It’s a great variation if you love bold deli flavors.

How do I keep egg rolls crispy?

To keep them perfectly crisp:

• Cool on a wire rack instead of directly on a plate.

• Reheat in the air fryer or oven, not the microwave.

• Avoid stacking them while hot.

These simple tricks help preserve that irresistible crunch.

Nutrition Information

Each Reuben Egg Roll contains approximately 210 calories. On average, you can expect about 8–10 grams of protein, 12–14 grams of fat, and 15–18 grams of carbohydrates, depending on portion size and cooking method. Deep frying typically adds slightly more fat, while air frying reduces overall oil content. Either way, you’re getting a satisfying, savory appetizer that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

Conclusion

There’s just something so comforting about biting into a crispy, golden shell and discovering that warm, melty Reuben filling inside. These Reuben Egg Rolls bring together bold deli flavors, satisfying crunch, and creamy richness in one perfectly handheld bite.

Whether you deep fry them for that classic crunch or air fry them for a lighter touch, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable and truly crowd-pleasing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with turkey, pastrami, or a little extra spice to make them your own.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Leave a comment below and share your favorite variation!

And don’t forget—Pin this Reuben Egg Rolls recipe for later!

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