Hey foodies! If you like Reuben sandwiches, you’ll enjoy these crisp Reuben fritters. This simple Reuben appetizer is a combination of classic flavors – corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut–into bite-sized snacks served with a smooth Thousand Island dip. It’s one of the most delicious Reuben appetizers for dinner gatherings, game day snacks or for quick family meals.
Introduction: Why Try Reuben Fritters for Dinner?
Reuben fritters are a delightful variation on the traditional deli-style Reuben sandwich. Filled with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, these bites are crispy on the outside, and delicious inside. A favorite for potlucks and dinner parties This Reuben bite recipe is easy and quick. It is also perfect for those who are new to cooking. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they’ll become your preferred appetizer.
Ingredients for Reuben Fritters (Corned Beef Fritters Recipe)
- 1 Cup (150g) prepared corned beef that has been finely chopped (adds the traditional Reuben flavor)
- 1 Cup (115g) Swiss cheese, chopped (melts wonderfully inside)
- Half Cup (120g) sauerkraut that has been drained and squeezed dry (for tart bites)
- 1/4 Cup (60g) cream cheese that has been softened (creates an emulsified texture)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a spicy kick)
- 1 Cup (60g) All-purpose powder (for coating)
- 2 large eggs, beaten (helps breadcrumbs stick)
- 1 Cup (120g) Panko breadcrumbs (for crisp coating)
- Vegetable oil for frying (use sunflower or canola oil)
- Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard for dipping
Optional Ingredient Substitutions:
- Replace the corned beef with pastrami for a more smoky taste.
- Make use of gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to create a gluten-free alternative.
- Add a few caraway seeds in the mix to give it a little more Reuben flavor.
How to Make Reuben Fritters – Easy Step-by-Step Recipe
Step1: Prepare the Fritter Mixture
- Large bowl mix chopped corned beef with shreds of Swiss cheese, sauerkraut cream cheese as well as Dijon mustard.
- Mix till all of the ingredients have been well combined.
Step2: Form the Fritters (Reuben Bites)
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mix and make small balls from them.
- Set the dough balls onto a parchment lined baking sheet.
- Allow to freeze for 20-30 mins to allow them to set (helps the fritters to stay in place while cooking).
Step3: Bread the Fritters for Extra Crispiness
- Create a breading station using three bowls:
- Bowl 1 Flour (for dry coating)
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs (for binding)
- Bowl 3 Panko breadcrumbs (for a crisp coating)
- Dip each fritter ball into flour, dip it into the egg mixture, then roll them in breadcrumbs.
Step4: Fry the Reuben Fritters to Perfection
- About 2 inches of vegetable oil within a pan until it reaches 350°F (175degC).
- Fritters are cooked in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes before turning them over for even browning.
- If golden brown and crispy take it off and place on paper towels.
Step5: Serve hot with dips
Serve your crisp Reuben bites with an accompanying dish with Thousand Island dressing, spicy mustard and creamy horseradish. Eat them right away for the most delicious taste.
Helpful Tips for Reuben Fritters – Make Them Perfect
- Chill before Frying The freezing process can take 20-30 minutes. It will prevent the fritters from falling apart.
- Double Bread to get extra crisp Dip your bread twice in breadcrumbs and eggs to create a more dense coating.
- Oil Temperatures Matter: Maintain the temperature of the oil at 350°F to get perfect golden, crispy fritters.
Cooking Tips for the Best Reuben Fritters Recipe
- The Air Fryer option: Cook at 375degF for 8-10 minutes Shaking the basket half way through.
- Baking Option: Put fritters on a baking tray and bake at 400 degrees for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs. They have a more crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions for Reuben Fritters
- Mix it with creamy coleslaw, pickled cucumbers as well as Sweet potato fries.
- Beverage Pairings: Great with an IPA Pale ale, an IPA, or the classic root beer.
- The best dips are: Thousand Island dressing, garlic Aioli.
Nutritional Information for Reuben Fritters (Per Serving):
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 19g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 2g
Note The nutritional value is approximate and are based on the typical ingredient portions.
Storage and Leftovers for Reuben Fritters – Keep Them Fresh
- Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container three days or more.
- Freezing Fritters to Freeze: Freeze the fritters on a baking sheet and then transfer to the freezer-safe bag up to two months.
- Reheating the food: Cook in an air-fryer at 350degF for 5 mins or oven bake at 375degF 8 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Reuben Fritters
1. Can I make Reuben Fritters in advance of time?
Yes! Preparing and freezing fritter balls for up to two months. After that, bake or fry them directly from the frozen.
2. Do I have to use pastrami instead or corned Beef?
Absolutely! Pastrami gives the fritters a smokey and peppery taste.
3. How can prepare these gluten-free Fritters?
Make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. Also, make sure the sauce you dip in is gluten-free.
4. What’s the most effective oil to cook Reuben Fritters?
Make use of vegetable oil or canola to cook with due to their very high smoking point.
Related Recipes for Reuben Lovers
Explore more mouthwatering bites as :
-
Ravioli Dinner Recipe – Easy Italian Pasta with Asparagus
-
Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet Recipe – Easy Dinner Idea
Conclusion: Try This Crispy Reuben Fritters Recipe for Dinner
Reuben fritters mix the traditional flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich into crisp delicious bites of cheese that are great for dinner parties or any other occasions. If you bake, fry or air-fry them they’re easy to prepare, tasty, and guaranteed to make a statement. They also store well to make meal preparation or quick snacks.
Test this recipe now And let us know about your preferred dip sauce. Send us your feedback or pictures in the comment section below.
Happy Cooking.
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Reuben Fritters Recipe – Best Corned Beef Appetizer
Description
Hello, food lovers! If you enjoy Reuben sandwiches, you will love these crispy Reuben fritters. This easy Reuben appetizer combines classic flavors—corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut—into crunchy bites with a creamy Thousand Island dip. It is one of the best Reuben appetizer ideas for dinner parties, game day snacks, or quick family treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (150g) cooked corned beef, finely chopped (adds classic Reuben flavor)
- 1 cup (115g) Swiss cheese, shredded (melts beautifully inside)
- 1/2 cup (120g) sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry (for tangy bites)
- 1/4 cup (60g) cream cheese, softened (creates a creamy texture)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds a zesty kick)
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 2 large eggs, beaten (helps breadcrumbs stick)
- 1 cup (120g) Panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy coating)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (use canola or sunflower oil)
- Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard, for dipping
Optional Ingredient Substitutions:
- Replace corned beef with pastrami for a smoky flavor.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Add a dash of caraway seeds to the mixture for extra Reuben flavor.
Instructions
Step1: Prepare the Fritter Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step2: Form the Fritters (Reuben Bites)
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm up (helps the fritters stay intact during frying).
Step3: Bread the Fritters for Extra Crispiness
- Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour (for a dry coating)
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs (for binding)
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchy coating)
- Coat each fritter ball in flour, dip into the egg mixture, and roll in breadcrumbs.
Step4: Fry the Reuben Fritters to Perfection
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the fritters in small batches for 2-3 minutes, turning them for even browning.
- When golden brown and crispy, remove and drain on paper towels.
Step5: Serve Hot with Dips
Serve your crispy Reuben bites with a side of Thousand Island dressing, spicy mustard, or horseradish cream sauce. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor.
Equipment

Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Baking Option: Place fritters on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They produce a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs