If you love the bold, tangy flavors of a classic deli sandwich, then you are going to adore this Reuben Sliders Recipe. Miniature, packed with layers of tender corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and that signature Thousand Island dressing, these sliders turn a beloved sandwich into an irresistible party-friendly treat. Perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or anytime you want that comforting deli taste in a fun, handheld form, these sliders are bursting with flavor and so easy to make. Let me walk you through everything you need to create this scrumptious crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and purposefully chosen to deliver that iconic Reuben taste while keeping the textures just right. Each plays an important role in making your sliders delightfully juicy, tangy, and perfectly melty.
- 12 dinner rolls: Soft and fluffy, these form the perfect little buns to hold all those delicious layers without overwhelming the flavors.
- 8 ounces corned beef: Ready-to-eat and thinly sliced from the deli, this is the savory star of the show offering that classic Reuben protein punch.
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese slices: Creamy and mild, Swiss cheese melts beautifully, adding a luscious layer that complements the tangy sauerkraut.
- 3/4 cup Thousand Island or Russian dressing: Divided use here ensures each slider has that creamy, slightly sweet zip that defines a Reuben.
- 1 (14-oz) container sauerkraut: Drained and patted dry to avoid sogginess, sauerkraut lends the perfect zing and texture contrast.
- 6 tablespoons butter: Melted and mixed with spices, it gives the tops of the sliders a gorgeous golden crust and rich flavor.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle sharpness and depth to the butter topping.
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion: For a subtle savory kick without overwhelming the sliders.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and aroma to the topping.
- 3/4 teaspoon caraway seeds: Optional but traditional, these bring a warm, slightly nutty flavor that elevates the whole slider experience.
- 1/4 teaspoon poppy seeds: Adds visual appeal and slight crunch to the slider tops.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors in the butter mixture perfectly.
How to Make Reuben Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This will make sure your sliders bake evenly without sticking, and the warm oven will help the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Slice your rolls in half horizontally so you have perfect little bun tops and bottoms. Place the bottom halves snugly in the baking dish and spread 2-3 tablespoons of the Thousand Island dressing evenly over them. This gives a juicy base layer that keeps each bite packed with tangy flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Cheese, Corned Beef, and Sauerkraut
Next, place half of the Swiss cheese slices on top of the dressing. Layer your thinly sliced corned beef evenly over the cheese for that rich meaty taste. Then mix the drained sauerkraut with about 1/3 cup of the Thousand Island dressing and half a teaspoon of caraway seeds if using — this combo is what gives your sliders that classic Reuben tanginess. Spread the sauerkraut mixture over the corned beef, then top with the remaining Swiss cheese slices to lock in all those luscious flavors.
Step 4: Add the Tops of the Rolls
Spread the rest of the Thousand Island dressing on the cut sides of the top halves of the rolls, then place them gently but firmly over the cheese layer. This final layer ensures that every mouthwatering bite captures the signature creamy bite of a Reuben.
Step 5: Prepare and Brush the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, garlic powder, remaining caraway seeds if using, poppy seeds, and salt. This aromatic butter mixture will transform the slider tops into a golden, flavorful crust that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Brush it evenly over the tops of the rolls for that perfect finishing touch.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes to let the cheese melt and the flavors marry beautifully. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the tops are golden brown and irresistibly crisp. Cut into individual sliders and serve warm, optionally with extra Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping if you want to dial up the indulgence.
How to Serve Reuben Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra caraway seeds, or a small pickle spear on the side complement the sliders nicely. They add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast that balances the rich, tangy layers inside.
Side Dishes
Serve these sliders with classic deli sides like kettle-cooked potato chips, a crisp dill pickle, or a light side salad. For a heartier meal, creamy coleslaw or a warm bowl of tomato soup also pairs beautifully to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Reuben sliders on a rustic wooden board with toothpicks to hold them together for fun at a party. For a more elegant touch, place them on a platter lined with parchment paper and garnish the edges with sauerkraut and extra pickles for a truly inviting presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sliders left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and they reheat beautifully without drying out when wrapped tightly.
Freezing
You can freeze these sliders before baking by wrapping the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freezing for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen by adding extra time in the oven until warmed through and bubbly.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until fully heated and cheese is melted again. This method preserves that fresh-baked texture much better than the microwave.
FAQs
Can I make Reuben Sliders Recipe vegetarian?
While traditional Reuben sliders feature corned beef, you can swap it for grilled or roasted vegetables like mushrooms or a hearty plant-based deli slice to create a delicious vegetarian alternative. Just keep the other ingredients the same to maintain that tangy, cheesy comfort.
What type of cheese works best in these sliders?
Swiss cheese is classic because it melts smoothly and has a mild, nutty taste that balances well with the corned beef and sauerkraut. However, Gruyère or Jarlsberg can also work as flavorful substitutions if you want to experiment.
Is it necessary to drain the sauerkraut thoroughly?
Yes, draining and patting the sauerkraut dry is important to prevent the sliders from becoming soggy during baking. This keeps your buns nice and soft without falling apart.
Can I use a different type of roll?
Absolutely! Dinner rolls work great, but you can use slider buns, small brioche buns, or even soft sandwich rolls depending on your preference. Just make sure they are soft and not too dense so they toast nicely in the oven.
How spicy is this Reuben Sliders Recipe?
The sliders themselves are mild with a tangy, savory profile. If you prefer a little heat, you can add a dash of hot mustard to the dressing or sprinkle some crushed red pepper when assembling for a gentle kick.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely encourage you to try this Reuben Sliders Recipe soon because it captures everything delightful about a classic deli sandwich in a fun, accessible way that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a special treat, these sliders deliver comfort, flavor, and ease in every bite. Once you make them, I bet they’ll become one of your all-time favorites too!
Print
Reuben Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Reuben Sliders are a deliciously savory twist on the classic deli sandwich, featuring layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and tangy Thousand Island dressing, all nestled inside soft dinner rolls and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or a comforting snack, these sliders are easy to assemble and bursting with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Rolls & Spread
- 12 dinner rolls
- 3/4 cup Thousand Island or Russian dressing, divided
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Meat & Cheese
- 8 ounces corned beef, ready to eat and thinly sliced from the deli
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese slices
Sauerkraut Mixture
- 1 (14-ounce) container sauerkraut, drained and patted dry very well (about 1 cup once dry)
- 1/3 cup Thousand Island or Russian dressing (from the divided amount above)
- 3/4 teaspoon caraway seeds, divided (optional)
Seasoning for Topping
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using butter or nonstick cooking spray to ensure the sliders won’t stick and will bake evenly.
- Prepare rolls: Slice each dinner roll horizontally in half. Place the bottom halves evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the Thousand Island or Russian dressing over the bottom halves to add moisture and tangy flavor.
- Add filling: Layer half of the Swiss cheese slices over the dressing on the bottom roll halves. Next, evenly distribute the thinly sliced corned beef on top of the cheese. In a bowl, combine the drained and very well-dried sauerkraut with 1/3 cup of dressing and 1/2 teaspoon of caraway seeds if using. Spread this sauerkraut mixture evenly over the corned beef. Top the sauerkraut with the remaining Swiss cheese slices to create melty, savory layers.
- Add top of rolls: Spread the remaining dressing on the cut side of the top halves of the rolls. Place these top halves carefully over the cheese layer, completing the assembly of the sliders.
- Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, garlic powder, remaining 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds (if using), poppy seeds, and salt. Use a brush to evenly coat the tops of the rolls with this flavorful butter mixture to create a golden, savory crust during baking.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake the sliders in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese has melted completely. Remove from oven, cut into individual sliders, and serve warm. Optionally, serve with extra Thousand Island or Russian dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure to drain and pat the sauerkraut very dry to avoid soggy sliders.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the caraway seeds.
- Use freshly melted butter for the topping for the best flavor and easy brushing.
- These sliders can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the dinner rolls with gluten-free rolls.
