Reuben sandwiches are a classic for a reason – the savory combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing is undeniably delicious. But what if you could enjoy all that Reuben goodness in a crispy, convenient egg roll? Enter the air fryer Reuben egg roll! This recipe elevates the classic Reuben to new heights, offering a fun, shareable appetizer or a satisfying light meal. Forget greasy takeout; these air fryer Reuben egg rolls are quick, easy, and surprisingly healthy.
What are Reuben Egg Rolls?
Reuben egg rolls are essentially miniature Reuben sandwiches wrapped in egg roll wrappers. They contain all the classic Reuben ingredients – thinly sliced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, nutty Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing – all nestled inside a crispy egg roll wrapper and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This clever twist on a classic offers a delightful textural contrast and a more manageable, bite-sized portion.
How to Make Reuben Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer
Making air fryer Reuben egg rolls is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- 1 package (12-16 count) egg roll wrappers
- 1 pound thinly sliced corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
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Prep your ingredients: Ensure your corned beef is thinly sliced and your sauerkraut is well-drained to prevent soggy egg rolls. Shred the Swiss cheese.
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Assemble the egg rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, diamond-shaped. Place a spoonful of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese in the center. Drizzle with a teaspoon of Thousand Island dressing.
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Wrap the egg rolls: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the side corners. Roll tightly from the bottom to the top, tucking in the edge to seal.
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Air fry the egg rolls: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
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Cook until golden brown and crispy: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer.
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Serve immediately: Serve your crispy Reuben egg rolls hot, perhaps with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
What kind of egg roll wrappers should I use?
You can use standard egg roll wrappers readily available at most grocery stores. Look for wrappers that are thin and pliable for easy rolling. Avoid using overly thick wrappers, as they might not crisp up as well in the air fryer.
Can I make these ahead of time?
While it's best to air fry the egg rolls right before serving for optimal crispiness, you can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just ensure they are properly sealed to prevent them from drying out.
How do I store leftover Reuben egg rolls?
Leftover Reuben egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven for best results. Microwaving them may make them soggy.
Are Reuben egg rolls healthy?
Compared to traditional deep-fried egg rolls, air fryer Reuben egg rolls are a healthier option because they use less oil. However, they are still relatively high in fat and sodium due to the corned beef and cheese. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I freeze Reuben egg rolls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked, assembled Reuben egg rolls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. Air fry frozen egg rolls from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
This recipe for air fryer Reuben egg rolls offers a unique and delicious twist on a classic. The crispy texture and ease of preparation make it a perfect appetizer or light meal for any occasion. So, ditch the takeout and give this recipe a try – you won't be disappointed!
