There’s a certain joy in transforming leftovers into something extraordinary, and these Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls do just that! Picture the delightful crunch as you take a bite, giving way to a savory blend of corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all wrapped up in a crispy shell.
I first whipped these up one busy afternoon after a hearty St. Patrick’s Day feast, and they swiftly became a household favorite. With a quick spin in the air fryer, you’ll achieve that coveted golden hue without the guilt of deep-frying. They make for a perfect appetizer, snack, or even light lunch that’s bursting with flavor and fun. Whether you follow the classic recipe or throw in a twist with pastrami or turkey, you’ll find that these egg rolls are not only easy to prepare but also a exciting treat that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!
Why love Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls?
Quick and Easy: This recipe whips up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Healthy Twist: The air fryer reduces excess oil compared to traditional frying, giving you that crispy texture guilt-free!
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients—try brisket or turkey for a twist, or use coleslaw for a different take!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these egg rolls are sure to impress guests of all ages.
For more great ideas using your air fryer, check out my post on easy air fryer appetizers.
Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls Ingredients
For the Egg Rolls
• Egg roll wrappers – Provides the crunchy exterior; can substitute with wonton wrappers for smaller bites.
• Corned beef – Main protein that adds savory flavor; feel free to replace it with sliced turkey, pastrami, or brisket for variations.
• Swiss cheese – Adds creaminess; substitute with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different taste profile.
• Sauerkraut – Offers tartness; ensure it’s well-drained to prevent sogginess in the rolls. Alternatively, try coleslaw for a ‘Rachel’ variation.
• Thousand Island dressing – Provides moisture and flavor; you can use Russian dressing, ranch, or French dressing as alternatives.
• Nonstick or oil spray – Optional for an extra crispy finish during cooking.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from creating irresistible Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls
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Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded corned beef, Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing until everything is evenly distributed. This savory mix is the heart of your egg rolls!
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Prepare the Wrappers: Wet the edges of an egg roll wrapper. For traditional wrappers, place about 3 tablespoons of the mixture in one corner; if using wonton wrappers, use about 1 tablespoon for a mini version.
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Wrap It Up: Fold the wrapper over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to enclose the mixture completely. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep all that deliciousness inside!
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F. This ensures a perfectly crisp exterior when your egg rolls cook!
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Cook the Egg Rolls: Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, lightly spritzing the tops with oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your crispy egg rolls hot, alongside extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping. This adds a delightful touch of flavor!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls
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Room Temperature: Serve crispy when fresh! If there are leftovers, let them cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store any leftover crispy air fryer Reuben egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked egg rolls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: After thawing frozen egg rolls, cook in the air fryer at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes to achieve that delightful crispiness once again.
Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls Variations
Feel free to make these egg rolls your own with delightful twists and ingredient swaps that elevate the flavor!
- Mini Wontons: Use wonton wrappers instead of egg rolls for smaller, bite-sized treats. Perfect for parties!
- Meat Swap: Replace corned beef with pastrami or turkey for a different flavor profile. Each brings a unique taste!
- Cheese Change: Experiment with Monterey Jack or mozzarella instead of Swiss for a creamy twist. Go a little gourmet!
- Coleslaw Variants: Switch out sauerkraut for coleslaw to give a fresh crunch and a ‘Rachel’ sandwich-style flavor.
- Dressing Alternatives: Swap Thousand Island for ranch or French dressing for a completely different dressing experience.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the filling for a fiery burst that tickles the taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs, like dill or parsley, with the filling for a fragrant twist that brightens each bite.
- Sweet & Savory: Consider adding a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the filling for a subtly sweet contrast to the tangy sauerkraut.
Expert Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls
• Drain Sauerkraut Well: Ensure your sauerkraut is thoroughly drained to avoid soggy egg rolls. A dry filling keeps the texture crispy!
• Mind the Filling: Don’t overfill the wrappers; use a loose, even scoop to prevent tearing. This helps maintain the structure of your egg rolls.
• Preheat for Perfection: Preheating your air fryer to 400°F is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crispiness that makes these Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls irresistible.
• Flip for Even Cooking: Make sure to flip the egg rolls halfway through cooking. This ensures they get evenly crispy on all sides for the best flavor and texture.
• Experiment with Variations: Feel free to swap corned beef for turkey or pastrami and try different cheeses. Get creative with your ingredients for delicious twists!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling (corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and dressing) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. Additionally, you can roll the egg rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. To maintain their crispy texture, be sure to lightly spritz the wrappers with oil when you’re ready to air fry. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your air fryer and cook the rolls as directed, ensuring a delicious, golden result with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the savory allure of these crispy treats.
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Crispy Onion Rings: Their crunchy texture and sweet onion flavor provide a classic contrast, perfect for dipping in tangy sauces.
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Classic Potato Skins: Loaded with cheese and bacon, these add a hearty touch while enhancing the pub-style vibe of your appetizer spread.
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Dill Pickle Chips: The tartness brightens the palate between bites of rich egg rolls, delivering a refreshing crunch that oozes nostalgia.
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Coleslaw: A chilled, creamy coleslaw balances the warmth and crunch with its refreshing crispness and tangy sweetness.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes for an unexpected yet delightful side, creating a twist on traditional pairing.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with savory fillings, providing a unique flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
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Pickle Brined Deviled Eggs: Elevate your gathering with these tangy, creamy bites that echo the flavors of the egg rolls while offering a fun visual element.
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Light Beer or Hard Cider: Pairing your meal with a chilled drink will enhance the flavor and freshness of your egg rolls, perfect for a picnic or casual gathering.
Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right corned beef for the egg rolls?
Absolutely! When selecting corned beef, look for a cut that’s well-marbled with fat for maximum flavor and tenderness. The best choice is usually a brisket that’s been cooked low and slow to ensure it’s juicy and easy to shred.
What’s the best way to store leftover crispy air fryer Reuben egg rolls?
For best results, store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 400°F for about 3-5 minutes to regain that crispy texture!
Can I freeze uncooked Reuben egg rolls?
Very! To freeze uncooked egg rolls, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw—just cook them straight from the freezer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes!
What should I do if my egg rolls are soggy?
If your egg rolls turn out soggy, it’s most likely due to excess moisture from the filling, particularly the sauerkraut. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well before mixing it in, and avoid overfilling the wrappers. If they’re already soggy, you can re-crisp them in the air fryer at 400°F for a few minutes to help restore some crunch.
Are these crispy air fryer Reuben egg rolls suitable for kids or anyone with food allergies?
Yes, but always check the labels for potential allergens! The recipe is a great way to offer something delicious for kids who enjoy savory snacks. However, it contains dairy (Swiss cheese) and gluten (egg roll wrappers). There are gluten-free wrappers available, and if you’re concerned about dairy, you can substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Crispy Air Fryer Reuben Egg Rolls: A Tasty Twist on Leftovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded corned beef, Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing until evenly distributed.
- Wet the edges of an egg roll wrapper. Place about 3 tablespoons of the mixture in one corner for traditional wrappers.
- Fold the wrapper over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to enclose completely.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, lightly spritz the tops with oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve hot alongside extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.