Reuben sandwiches are a classic comfort food, but sometimes you crave that same delicious flavor in a fun, new format. Enter the Reuben egg roll! This recipe takes the quintessential Reuben combination—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing—and wraps it all up in a crispy, golden-brown egg roll wrapper for a truly satisfying and surprisingly easy-to-make appetizer or light meal. And the best part? We're making them in the air fryer for perfectly crispy results every time!
What Makes Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls Special?
Air frying offers several advantages over traditional frying methods when it comes to making Reuben egg rolls. Firstly, it drastically reduces the amount of oil needed, resulting in a healthier and less greasy final product. Secondly, the air fryer’s rapid heating and circulating air create an incredibly crispy exterior while ensuring the filling remains perfectly cooked and juicy. Finally, cleanup is a breeze – no messy oil splatters to contend with!
How to Make Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 pound thinly sliced corned beef, patted dry
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained well
- 4 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds a nice tang)
- 1 package (about 24) egg roll wrappers
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, gently combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix well, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the Reuben filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners. Brush the top corner with a little water to help it seal, and roll tightly towards the top corner, tucking the edge under to secure. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking spray. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded (you may need to cook in batches).
- Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
- Serve: Remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as extra Thousand Island dressing or a horseradish cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time if they're cold from the refrigerator.
What if I don't have an air fryer?
While an air fryer gives the best crispy results, you can bake these egg rolls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as the air-fried version, but still delicious.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Swiss cheese is traditional for a Reuben, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as provolone or Gruyère.
What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Consider adding caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or different types of pickles for variations on the classic Reuben theme.
How do I store leftover Reuben egg rolls?
Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven until warmed through and crispy again.
Conclusion
These air fryer Reuben egg rolls are a fantastic appetizer or light meal that’s perfect for game day, parties, or a fun weeknight dinner. The crispy exterior, flavorful filling, and ease of preparation make them a true crowd-pleaser. So ditch the traditional frying and embrace the convenience and deliciousness of the air fryer! Enjoy!
