If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich—with its delicious combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and tangy dressing—then you’ll absolutely love Reuben Fritters. These crispy, golden bites pack all the savory goodness of a Reuben in a bite-sized, deep-fried form. The crunchy exterior gives way to a gooey, cheesy, and flavorful interior that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make Reuben Fritters, share tips on getting the perfect crispiness, and explore some fun variations to customize the recipe to your liking.
Why Reuben Fritters Are a Game-Changer
Reuben sandwiches are a classic, but turning them into fritters takes this beloved dish to a whole new level. Here’s why Reuben Fritters are a must-try:
- Crispy and Crunchy: The golden, crispy exterior is the perfect contrast to the rich, melty filling inside. These fritters offer that satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Classic Reuben Flavors: All the key ingredients of a Reuben sandwich are here—tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese. The result is a bite-sized version of the classic sandwich, with all the flavor and none of the mess.
- Fun and Shareable: Fritters are perfect for parties, appetizers, or game days. They’re easy to eat with your hands and perfect for dipping in your favorite dressing or sauce.
- Simple Yet Delicious: Despite their gourmet appearance, Reuben Fritters are surprisingly easy to make and require only a few ingredients. If you’re craving something hearty and delicious but want a fun twist on a classic, this is your recipe.
Reuben Fritters: Crispy Bites with Sauerkraut, Corned Beef & Cheese
If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich—with its delicious combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and tangy dressing—then you’ll absolutely love Reuben Fritters. These crispy, golden bites pack all the savory goodness of a Reuben in a bite-sized, deep-fried form. The crunchy exterior gives way to a gooey, cheesy, and flavorful interior that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make Reuben Fritters, share tips on getting the perfect crispiness, and explore some fun variations to customize the recipe to your liking.
Why Reuben Fritters Are a Game-Changer
Reuben sandwiches are a classic, but turning them into fritters takes this beloved dish to a whole new level. Here’s why Reuben Fritters are a must-try:
- Crispy and Crunchy: The golden, crispy exterior is the perfect contrast to the rich, melty filling inside. These fritters offer that satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Classic Reuben Flavors: All the key ingredients of a Reuben sandwich are here—tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese. The result is a bite-sized version of the classic sandwich, with all the flavor and none of the mess.
- Fun and Shareable: Fritters are perfect for parties, appetizers, or game days. They’re easy to eat with your hands and perfect for dipping in your favorite dressing or sauce.
- Simple Yet Delicious: Despite their gourmet appearance, Reuben Fritters are surprisingly easy to make and require only a few ingredients. If you’re craving something hearty and delicious but want a fun twist on a classic, this is your recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Reuben Fritters
To make these crispy, cheesy fritters, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients, many of which are likely already in your pantry. Here’s the list:
For the Fritters:
- 1 cup corned beef, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or a blend of Swiss and Gruyère)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispness)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or canola oil works best)
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for an extra tangy kick)
- 1 tsp horseradish (optional, for extra heat)
How to Make Reuben Fritters: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these easy steps to make crispy, cheesy Reuben Fritters that will wow your guests!
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, and shredded Swiss cheese. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Make the Batter:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Add the breadcrumbs and flour, mixing until the mixture is thick enough to hold together but still slightly sticky.
3. Form the Fritters:
Take small spoonfuls of the filling mixture and form them into bite-sized balls or patties. Dip each fritter into the batter, ensuring it’s well-coated.
4. Fry the Fritters:
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or frying pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully drop the fritters into the oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
5. Drain and Serve:
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfect Reuben Fritters
- Drain the Sauerkraut Well: Excess moisture from the sauerkraut can make the fritters soggy. Be sure to drain it well and even squeeze out any extra liquid with a paper towel before mixing it into the filling.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They will give the fritters a crispier texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the fritters in advance by shaping them and refrigerating them for a few hours before frying. This helps them hold together better when frying.
- Use a Thermometer for Oil: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy exterior. If the oil is too hot, the fritters will burn quickly. If it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Variations to Try
While the classic Reuben Fritters are a delicious treat, feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Cheddar and Bacon: Swap the Swiss cheese for sharp cheddar, and add crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Option: For a vegetarian take, replace the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or even a mix of roasted vegetables for a hearty bite.
Reuben Fritters are a fun, easy, and flavorful way to enjoy all the goodness of a classic Reuben sandwich in a bite-sized form. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, a game day snack, or a weeknight treat, they’re sure to impress. Crispy, cheesy, and savory, these fritters pack all the flavor of the beloved sandwich with an added crunch—what’s not to love? So, grab your ingredients, fry up these tasty morsels, and enjoy!