If you’re craving all the tangy, savory flavors of a classic deli Reuben sandwich, but want something perfect for sharing, these Reuben Fritters are about to win your heart. Imagine a crispy, golden bite bursting with corned beef, melty Swiss, creamy cheese, and zingy sauerkraut—all dunked in Thousand Island dressing. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or need a novel party appetizer, Reuben Fritters are so fun and easy, you’ll find yourself coming back to them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Reuben Fritters comes from a short list of classic ingredients, each chosen for maximum flavor and that unbeatable crispy-meets-creamy texture. Don’t skip or substitute—every one is important in achieving the true deli-inspired taste!
- Chopped cooked corned beef (1 ½ cups): The star protein, offering salty, savory richness and lots of bite.
- Sauerkraut, well-drained and chopped (1 cup): Zesty, tangy crunch that balances out all the richness—make sure it’s extra dry!
- Shredded Swiss cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully, bringing that signature nutty flavor you love in a Reuben.
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces): Acts as the glue, making the filling ultra creamy and easy to shape.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): A subtle boost of savory depth in every bite.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Lends sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Lively kick that enhances all the other flavors.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): Essential for the breading, creating a sturdy base so the fritters crisp up nicely.
- Large eggs, beaten (2): Acts as the “glue” in the breading process, helping the crumbs stick beautifully.
- Plain breadcrumbs or crushed rye crackers (1 cup): Choose rye for that authentic deli vibe, or plain for classic crunch.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: Neutral, high-heat oil makes for perfectly golden, non-greasy fritters.
- Thousand Island dressing, for dipping: The perfect sweet and tangy partner for every bite of Reuben Fritters.
How to Make Reuben Fritters
Step 1: Mix Up the Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your chopped corned beef, well-drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is fully combined. The cream cheese should hold the mixture together—if it feels a little loose, chill it for a few minutes to make shaping easier.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Fritters
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls—about the size of a golf ball works perfectly. Space them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once formed, pop the tray into your freezer for 20 to 30 minutes. This quick chill firms up the balls so they stay together during breading and frying, making your life much easier.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
While your Reuben Fritters are chilling, set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs (or rye cracker crumbs). This assembly line structure makes the coating process smooth and mess-free. Get ready to get your hands a little dirty!
Step 4: Bread Each Fritter
Take the chilled fritter balls and roll them, one by one, in flour. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, then finally coat them thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Don’t be shy—really coat them well for that ultimate crunch. Place them back on the baking sheet as you go.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden Perfection
Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or large saucepan and heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the Reuben Fritters in batches, turning occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes or until they’re a gorgeous golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain. Keep them warm in a low oven while you finish the rest.
Step 6: Serve with Dipping Sauce
Arrange your crispy Reuben Fritters on a platter and serve them piping-hot with plenty of Thousand Island dressing for dipping. Don’t be surprised if they disappear in record time!
How to Serve Reuben Fritters
Garnishes
You can elevate the presentation and flavor by scattering a little extra chopped fresh parsley, chives, or even a dusting of smoked paprika over your Reuben Fritters. A sprinkle of flaky salt right out of the fryer never hurts, either—it brings out every single flavor note.
Side Dishes
Serve Reuben Fritters with crunchy pickles, a simple green salad, or even a vibrant cabbage slaw for extra contrast and freshness. Homemade kettle chips or roasted potatoes would round things out for a super-satisfying spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try skewering your Reuben Fritters onto party picks for the ultimate cocktail-hour snack. Pile them high in a rustic basket lined with deli paper for a pub-style vibe, or arrange in bite-sized “towers” atop small slices of rye for a playful nod to the traditional sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers (though that’s rare)? Cool the fritters to room temperature and then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. They’ll stay deliciously tasty but will need a quick re-crisp before serving again.
Freezing
Reuben Fritters freeze beautifully! You can freeze them before or after frying. If freezing un-fried, place breaded fritters on a tray and freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, just adding an extra minute or two. Fully cooked leftovers can also be frozen and reheated—just expect the crust to be a touch softer.
Reheating
To restore crunch, reheat Reuben Fritters in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until hot and crispy. Skip the microwave, which softens the coating. An air fryer also works wonders for reviving that just-fried texture!
FAQs
Can I make Reuben Fritters ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble and bread your fritters, then keep them chilled in the fridge for up to a day or freeze before frying. Fry them off just before serving for best results.
Is there a baked version of this recipe?
Yes! To bake your Reuben Fritters, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush generously with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning once. They’ll get crispy without any deep-frying.
What’s the best way to keep Reuben Fritters from falling apart?
The key is to drain your sauerkraut really well and chill the shaped balls before breading. The cream cheese also helps bind everything—if your mix feels too crumbly, add a little bit more.
Can I substitute another cheese for Swiss?
While Swiss gives that true Reuben Fritter flavor, you could swap in Gruyere, Havarti, or even a mild provolone if needed. Just aim for something that melts nicely.
Are Reuben Fritters gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can definitely make them gluten-free by using your favorite GF flour and breadcrumbs or GF rye crackers for coating. Be sure all your other ingredients (like corned beef and dressing) are gluten-free too.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an unforgettable appetizer, I can’t recommend Reuben Fritters enough. They’re as playful and satisfying as they are easy to make, and every batch disappears in a flash. Give them a go—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Reuben Fritters Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 fritters 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Reuben Fritters are a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese fried to crispy perfection. They make a fantastic appetizer or party finger food.
Ingredients
Corned Beef Fritters:
- 1 ½ cups chopped cooked corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs or crushed rye crackers
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Thousand Island dressing, for dipping
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Form Fritters: Roll mixture into balls, freeze for 20–30 minutes.
- Bread Fritters: Roll in flour, dip in eggs, coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F, fry fritters until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Drain on paper towels, serve warm with Thousand Island dressing.
Notes
- Ensure sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Fritters can be assembled and frozen before frying.
- For a baked version, brush with oil and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Deli-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 fritters
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
