Can I make Reuben fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fritters ahead by forming and breading them, then freezing them. When ready to serve, fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cook time.

Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?

Absolutely! Pastrami is a delicious alternative and adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.

How do I make Reuben fritters gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What dipping sauces go well with Reuben fritters?

Thousand Island dressing is the classic choice. You can also serve them with spicy mustard, creamy horseradish, or a garlic aioli for variety.

Can I bake Reuben fritters instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy, but still tasty.

DINNER IDEAS LUNCH

Reuben Fritters Recipe – Best Corned Beef Appetizer

Name: Crispy Reuben Fritters
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 16 fritters
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (150g) prepared corned beef, finely chopped; 1 cup (115g) Swiss cheese, chopped; ½ cup (120g) sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry; ¼ cup (60g) cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup (60g) all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup (120g) Panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying; Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard, for dipping

by Clara Bennett

22 de June de 2025

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Reuben Fritters Recipe – Best Corned Beef Appetizer

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The first time I tried Reuben fritters, it was at a cozy holiday party where the scent of melted Swiss and tangy sauerkraut drifted through the kitchen. I remember biting into the golden, crispy shell and getting hit with that nostalgic Reuben flavor—savory corned beef, creamy cheese, and just the right zing of mustard. It was comfort food with a twist, and I couldn’t stop at one. If you’ve ever craved your favorite deli sandwich in snackable form, this recipe for crispy Reuben appetizer bites is about to be your new go-to. Whether you’re prepping easy game day snacks, party appetizers with corned beef, or fried cheesy snacks with sauerkraut, these deliver big flavor in a small bite.

Let’s get started and turn that sandwich craving into the perfect party snack!

Top 5 Reasons to Love Reuben Fritters

✅ All the classic Reuben flavors packed into a crispy bite-sized snack.
✅ Golden and crunchy on the outside, cheesy and savory inside.
✅ Easy to make ahead – freeze, fry, and serve fresh anytime.
✅ Perfect appetizer for parties, game days, or holiday spreads.
✅ Irresistible combo of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut with every bite.

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.

Close-up of Reuben fritters with a crispy breadcrumb coating and dipping sauce on the side — Zoom in on the crunch—these Reuben fritters are packed with flavor and ready to dip!

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:
1. Bowl 1 Flour (for dry coating)
2. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs (for binding)
3. 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.

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

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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.

💬 Have questions or a variation you love? Drop a comment below!
📲 Don’t forget to share this recipe on Pinterest or with a friend who needs a dinner save!

Happy Cooking.

Reuben Fritters Recipe – Best Corned Beef Appetizer

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Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 16 fritters 1x

Diet: Kosher

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Description

These crispy Reuben Fritters are packed with chopped corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Perfect for parties or game day snacks, they’re golden, crunchy, and irresistibly cheesy inside.

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix chopped corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20–30 minutes.
Create a breading station: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, Bowl 3 with Panko breadcrumbs.

Dip each ball into flour, then egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.
Heat 2 inches of oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry fritters in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard.