If you’re searching for an appetizer that’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and loaded with flavor, Reuben Roll Ups are about to become your new favorite recipe. These little golden bites take all the iconic flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich — corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing — and wrap them neatly into crispy, buttery roll ups. They’re perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or any time you want something delicious and shareable without the mess of a full sandwich.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — from the best ingredients and step-by-step instructions, to variations, expert tips, storage, and make-ahead options. Whether you’re a kitchen beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll master these savory bites in no time.
🧀 What Are Reuben Roll Ups?
Reuben Roll Ups are a bite-sized twist on the traditional Reuben sandwich — a deli favorite known for its layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and creamy dressing sandwiched between slices of rye bread.
Instead of serving it in sandwich form, this recipe takes those same ingredients and transforms them into a compact, oven-baked roll-up that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy inside, and full of rich, tangy flavor.
Each roll delivers the perfect combination of savory meat, melted cheese, and tangy sauerkraut wrapped in buttery rye bread — all baked until golden brown perfection.
They’re great for:
- Appetizers at parties and get-togethers
- Snack trays or charcuterie boards
- Game day treats
- Family dinners when you need something quick but satisfying
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Reuben Roll Ups Recipe
There are dozens of reasons this recipe is adored by home cooks and food bloggers alike, but here are a few highlights:
1. Easy and Quick to Make
From prep to table, these roll ups take less than 30 minutes — no special tools or long marination required.
2. Mess-Free Snack
No need to worry about dripping sauces or sandwich crumbs. These bite-sized rolls are neat, clean, and easy to eat with your hands.
3. Classic Reuben Flavor in Every Bite
You get all the savory-sweet balance of a deli Reuben — the saltiness of corned beef, the creaminess of Swiss cheese, and the tang of sauerkraut and dressing.
4. Perfect for Entertaining
They look elegant on a platter, and their small size makes them easy to serve and enjoy at any event — from Super Bowl parties to family picnics.
5. Endless Customization
You can make them spicy, vegetarian, low-carb, or even gluten-free with simple swaps.
🥪 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of everything required to make the best Reuben Roll Ups. All ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store.
🧾 Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices rye bread, crusts removed
Traditional rye gives that authentic Reuben taste. You can also use marble rye or pumpernickel for deeper flavor. - 8 ounces corned beef, thinly sliced
Deli-style corned beef is perfect here — ask for it sliced thin so it rolls easily. - 8 slices Swiss cheese
Swiss adds the classic Reuben creaminess, but provolone or mozzarella work too. - 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible so the bread stays crisp. - ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
Use store-bought or homemade — the tangy, creamy dressing ties all the flavors together. - 2 tablespoons melted butter
Brushing the tops before baking gives them a rich, golden crust.
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy directions for perfect, crispy roll ups every time:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice of rye bread. Flattening makes the bread flexible, easier to roll, and gives it that thin, crisp edge after baking.
Step 3: Add the Dressing
Spread about 1 tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing evenly across each slice of bread. Don’t overload it — a thin layer keeps things creamy without soaking the bread.
Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Place one slice of Swiss cheese over the dressing. Add a few slices of corned beef, then top with a small spoonful of sauerkraut.
Step 5: Roll It Up
Starting from one edge, roll each slice tightly. Place seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet to keep them closed during baking.
Step 6: Brush with Butter
Brush the tops lightly with melted butter. This gives them a golden, slightly crispy finish.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the roll ups are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Let them cool slightly before serving. Slice into halves or serve whole with a side of extra dressing for dipping.
🧂 Tips for Perfect Reuben Roll Ups
- Drain the Sauerkraut Well:
Excess liquid can make your roll ups soggy. Pat dry with paper towels before using. - Use Fresh Bread:
Older bread may crack while rolling. Soft, fresh rye slices roll more smoothly. - Avoid Overfilling:
Too much filling makes them hard to roll and can cause them to unroll during baking. - Secure with Toothpicks (Optional):
For added stability, you can use small toothpicks before baking and remove them later. - For Extra Crispiness:
Toast the roll ups for the last 3 minutes under the broiler — but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
🌶️ Tasty Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are several delicious ways to customize your Reuben Roll Ups.
1. Spicy Reuben Roll Ups
Add a few dashes of hot sauce or replace Thousand Island dressing with spicy mustard for a kick.
2. Vegetarian Roll Ups
Replace corned beef with grilled mushrooms or roasted red peppers. The texture and flavor remain hearty and delicious.
3. Low-Carb Reuben Roll Ups
Use low-carb wraps or cabbage leaves instead of rye bread to make a keto-friendly version.
4. Cheesy Deluxe
Add extra Swiss cheese or even a layer of shredded mozzarella for more gooeyness.
5. Pickle Crunch
Add thin slices of dill pickle inside the roll before baking for extra tang and crunch.
6. Air Fryer Reuben Roll Ups
Skip the oven! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes for an ultra-crispy finish.
7. Crescent Roll Reubens
Use refrigerated crescent roll dough instead of bread for a buttery, pastry-style appetizer.
🧊 Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating
Make-Ahead
You can assemble the roll ups in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating
To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Freezing
Freeze unbaked roll ups by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes of baking time.
🍽️ What to Serve With Reuben Roll Ups
These roll ups are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes and dips. Try serving them with:
- Extra Thousand Island or Russian dressing for dipping
- Pickle spears or coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
- Potato salad or crispy fries for a heartier meal
- Beer or sparkling soda for casual entertaining
They’re also amazing on an appetizer platter next to sliders, stuffed mushrooms, or deviled eggs.
👩🍳 Homemade Thousand Island Dressing
Want to take it to the next level? Make your own Thousand Island dressing in minutes.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Adjust seasoning to your preference. Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use another type of bread?
Absolutely. While rye is traditional, sourdough or whole wheat bread works just as well and adds different flavor notes.
2. Can I make these in advance?
Yes! Assemble them up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. Great for parties or meal prep.
3. Can I use deli corned beef?
Yes, thinly sliced deli corned beef works perfectly for this recipe.
4. Can I substitute sauerkraut?
If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, try using coleslaw or pickled cabbage for a milder tang.
5. Are these good for kids?
Yes! Just use a little less sauerkraut and dressing if your kids prefer milder flavors.
6. How can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free rye-style bread or gluten-free tortillas.
7. How long will they stay fresh?
They’re best enjoyed fresh but can last in the fridge for up to 2 days when stored properly.
8. Can I freeze cooked roll ups?
Yes. Cool them completely, then freeze in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven until warm.
🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Roll Up)
(Approximate values, may vary depending on brands used)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
💡 Expert Tips and Tricks
- Always use thin-sliced corned beef to keep rolling easy.
- Dry the sauerkraut well — excess moisture ruins texture.
- Use a sharp knife when slicing baked roll ups to prevent squishing.
- Add a sprinkle of caraway seeds on top before baking for extra rye flavor.
- Want extra shine? Brush with an egg wash instead of butter before baking.
🎉 Serving Ideas for Every Occasion
Game Day Favorite
Reuben Roll Ups are a hit during the big game — easy to grab, satisfying, and flavorful.
Holiday Appetizer
Add them to your Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving appetizer spread for a fun, hearty bite before dinner.
Party Platter Star
Pair them with other finger foods like buffalo chicken dip, spinach-artichoke cups, or meatballs.
Lunchbox Treat
Slice them into smaller bites and pack for a portable, protein-filled lunch.
🧑🍳 Recipe Card
Reuben Roll Ups
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 roll ups
Course: Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 slices rye bread, crusts removed
- 8 oz sliced corned beef
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Flatten bread slices using a rolling pin.
- Spread 1 tbsp of Thousand Island dressing over each slice.
- Top with cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut.
- Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the sheet.
- Brush tops with melted butter.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm with extra dressing.
🌟 Conclusion: The Perfect Bite-Sized Comfort Food
Reuben Roll Ups are everything you love about the classic Reuben sandwich — compacted into the perfect bite. With a crunchy exterior, melty cheese center, and layers of savory flavor, these rolls are bound to impress at any gathering.
Whether you’re preparing a weekend snack, planning a potluck, or hosting game night, these little rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again — because comfort food doesn’t get much easier (or tastier) than this!
