Reuben Sliders: 10 Mouthwatering Mini Sandwich Recipes

Are you tired of serving the same old appetizers at your gatherings? Looking for a crowd-pleasing finger food that delivers big flavor in a small package? Reuben sliders are the answer to your entertaining woes! Hi, I’m Michael, the heart behind Foodydish, and I’m excited to share these mini sandwich sensations that have become a staple at my family get-togethers. I discovered the magic of Reuben sliders years ago when trying to please both my sandwich-loving kids and gourmet-seeking friends at the same dinner table. These little bundles of joy bring everyone together, creating those memorable moments around the table that we all cherish. Let me show you how to create ten variations of these incredible mini sandwiches that will have your guests reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

In this guide, you’ll discover the secrets to perfect Reuben sliders, from selecting the ideal ingredients to assembly tips that ensure each bite delivers maximum flavor. I’ll share my time-tested recipes, substitution options for dietary needs, and presentation ideas that will make your sliders the star of any gathering.

Why These Reuben Sliders Recipes Work

These Reuben sliders recipes stand out from ordinary sandwich fare for several key reasons:

• Uses accessible ingredients that transform into gourmet-tasting mini sandwiches
• Quick prep time (most variations ready in under 30 minutes)
• Perfect make-ahead option for stress-free entertaining
• Customizable to accommodate various dietary preferences
• Ideal for everything from casual game days to elegant cocktail parties
• Kid-friendly yet sophisticated enough for adult gatherings

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Reuben Sliders

Best Bread Options for Reuben Sliders

The foundation of any great slider is the bread. For authentic Reuben sliders, consider:

• Hawaiian sweet rolls (for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory fillings)
• Mini rye bread squares (for traditional Reuben flavor)
• Brioche slider buns (for extra richness and buttery texture)
• Pretzel rolls (for a German-inspired twist)

Meat Selections for Reuben Sliders

While traditional Reuben sandwiches feature corned beef, our slider variations offer delicious alternatives:

• Thinly sliced corned beef (traditional choice)
• Pastrami (slightly spicier option)
• Roast turkey (lighter alternative)
• Plant-based deli slices (vegetarian option)

Cheese Considerations

The right cheese can make or break your Reuben sliders:

• Swiss cheese (traditional, melts beautifully)
• Gruyère (more complex flavor profile)
• Emmental (nutty flavor that complements sauerkraut)
• Dairy-free alternatives (for vegan variations)

Ingredients & Prep for Perfect Reuben Sliders

Essential Components

• 24 slider buns (Hawaiian sweet rolls work wonderfully)
• 1-1.5 lbs thinly sliced corned beef
• 16 slices Swiss cheese
• 2 cups sauerkraut, well-drained
• ¾ cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

Prep Time Hacks

• Drain sauerkraut thoroughly (at least 30 minutes) to prevent soggy sliders
• Layer cheese on both top and bottom buns to create a moisture barrier
• Use parchment paper under sliders for easy cleanup
• Prep components ahead of time and assemble just before baking

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Reuben Sliders

Pre-Cooking Prep for Reuben Sliders

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Slice the connected slider buns horizontally (keeping them attached)
3. Place bottom half in a 9×13 baking dish
4. Thoroughly drain sauerkraut using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

Assembly Method for Reuben Sliders

1. Layer half the cheese slices on the bottom buns
2. Add corned beef in an even layer
3. Spread drained sauerkraut over the meat
4. Drizzle with Russian or Thousand Island dressing
5. Add remaining cheese
6. Place top buns over the layers

Butter Topping for Reuben Sliders

1. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with Dijon, Worcestershire, onion powder, and poppy seeds
2. Brush mixture evenly over slider tops
3. Cover dish with foil

Baking Reuben Sliders

1. Bake covered for 15 minutes
2. Remove foil and bake for additional 5-7 minutes until tops are golden and cheese is melty
3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving

Looking for more appetizer inspiration? Check out my collection of mouthwatering party recipes on Pinterest your guests will thank you!

Pro Tips for Perfect Reuben Sliders

Avoiding Soggy Reuben Sliders

• Pat corned beef with paper towels to remove excess moisture
• Thoroughly drain sauerkraut (the dryer, the better!)
• Create a cheese “barrier” on both top and bottom buns
• Serve immediately after baking or keep warming drawer on low

Make-Ahead Reuben Sliders

• Assemble completely up to 24 hours ahead
• Cover tightly and refrigerate
• Allow additional 5-10 minutes baking time when cooking from refrigerated
• Add butter topping just before baking for best results

Serving Reuben Sliders

• Use a sharp knife to cut through connected rolls
• Provide extra dressing on the side for dipping
• Serve warm for best flavor and texture
• Include toothpicks for easy grabbing at parties

Flavor Variations for Reuben Sliders

Classic Reuben Sliders

The traditional favorite with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing.

Turkey Reuben Sliders

A lighter twist using roasted turkey breast instead of corned beef.

Veggie Reuben Sliders

Plant-based deli slices, vegan cheese, and all the classic fixings.

Reuben Slider Bombs

Wrapped in crescent roll dough and baked until golden for a hand-held treat.

BBQ Reuben Sliders

Add a touch of your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy variation.

Serving Suggestions for Reuben Sliders

Perfect Pairings with Reuben Sliders

• Crispy dill pickles or pickle spears
• German potato salad
• Creamy coleslaw
• Sweet potato fries with aioli
• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette

Dipping Options

• Extra Russian or Thousand Island dressing
• Whole grain mustard
• Horseradish cream
• Spicy mayo
• Beer cheese dip

If you enjoyed these Reuben sliders, you might also love my Italian Sausage Baked Ziti for another comforting meal option!

FAQs About Reuben Sliders

Can I make Reuben sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

How do I keep my Reuben sliders from getting soggy?

The key is thoroughly draining the sauerkraut and creating a cheese barrier on both the top and bottom buns to protect from moisture. Also, serving them shortly after baking helps maintain the perfect texture.

Can I freeze Reuben sliders?

While possible, I don’t recommend freezing fully assembled sliders as the texture suffers. Instead, freeze components separately and assemble before baking.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Reuben sliders?

Cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, wrap individual sliders in a paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Can I make these Reuben sliders vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based deli slices, vegan cheese, and ensure your dressing is vegetarian-friendly (some Russian dressings contain Worcestershire sauce, which may have anchovy).

For a complete party menu, check out Italian Sausage Spaghetti that pairs wonderfully with these sliders!

Conclusion

These Reuben sliders have become my go-to recipe whenever I need to feed a crowd or just want to treat my family to something special. The beauty of these mini sandwiches lies in their versatility – they’re equally at home at a casual Super Bowl party or served on a pretty platter for holiday gatherings. The combination of tender meat, melty cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing between warm, buttery buns creates an irresistible bite that always disappears quickly.

I hope you’ll try these Reuben slider variations and make them your own! Don’t forget to tag @foodydish on social media when you make them I love seeing your creations. And remember, good food brings people together, and these sliders ae guaranteed to create wonderful moments around your table.

What’s your favorite slider variation? I’d love to hear which one becomes your new favorite!

Reuben Sliders: 10 Mouthwatering Mini Sandwich Recipes

---

• Author: Michael
• Total Time: 30 min
• Yield: 12 sliders 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These Reuben Sliders pack all the classic deli flavors corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and tangy Thousand Island dressing into irresistible mini sandwiches baked to golden perfection.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls

1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing

3/4 pound sliced corned beef

6 slices Swiss cheese, halved

1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry

2 tbsp melted butter

1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for authentic rye flavor)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried parsley

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Slice slider buns in half horizontally, keeping connected if possible.

3. Spread Thousand Island dressing evenly on the bottom halves.

4. Layer with corned beef slices, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.

5. Place top halves of buns over the cheese.

6. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, parsley, and caraway seeds (if using).

7. Brush the butter mixture over the tops of the buns.

8. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

9. Remove foil and bake another 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.

10. Serve warm with extra Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.

Notes

💡 Tips:

• Pat the sauerkraut dry to prevent soggy sliders.

• Substitute pastrami for corned beef for a smoky twist.

• Add a slice of pickle inside each slider for a tangy crunch.

• These can be assembled ahead and baked right before serving!

• Prep Time: 10 min
• Cook Time: 20 min
• Category: Appetizer, Sandwiches
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slider
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: reuben sliders, corned beef sliders, party food, game day recipes