Reuben Pickle Bites are a fun and flavorful appetizer that takes all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich and combines them into bite-sized, pickle-wrapped treats. These tasty bites feature corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut all wrapped around a crisp pickle spear, then topped with a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing. They’re perfect for parties, game day snacks, or any time you want a unique and tangy treat!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 8 dill pickle spears
- 8 slices of corned beef
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained well
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- Toothpicks (for securing the bites)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Pat the pickle spears dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the other ingredients adhere better.
- Lay out the slices of corned beef and Swiss cheese on a clean work surface.
Step 2: Assemble the Pickle Bites
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each corned beef slice.
- Add a small spoonful of sauerkraut onto the cheese, spreading it evenly.
- Place a pickle spear at one end of the layered corned beef and cheese.
- Roll the pickle spear up tightly in the corned beef and cheese, securing it with a toothpick.
Step 3: Slice and Serve
- Cut each rolled pickle spear in half to create two bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the Reuben pickle bites on a serving platter and drizzle with Thousand Island dressing before serving.
Cooking Notes
- Pickles: Make sure to use dill pickle spears, as their tangy flavor pairs well with the other Reuben components.
- Corned Beef: Deli-sliced corned beef works best for this recipe, as it’s easy to wrap around the pickles and holds together well.
- Sauerkraut: Be sure to drain the sauerkraut well and even pat it dry to prevent the bites from becoming too wet.
Variations
Spicy Reuben Pickle Bites
- Add a thin slice of pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss for a spicy kick. You can also add a few drops of hot sauce to the sauerkraut before rolling.
Bacon-Wrapped Reuben Pickle Bites
- After assembling the bites, wrap each one in a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
Low-Carb Reuben Pickle Bites
- Use reduced-fat cheese and a light version of Thousand Island dressing to make these bites a bit more diet-friendly while still maintaining that classic Reuben flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Pickle Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the Reuben Pickle Bites up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but wait to drizzle them with the Thousand Island dressing until just before serving to keep them from becoming soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Reuben Pickle Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the pickles may soften slightly, but they will still be tasty.
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Certainly! While Swiss cheese is traditional for Reuben sandwiches, you can substitute with provolone or mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor.
Conclusion
Reuben Pickle Bites are a tangy, savory, and delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, made into a bite-sized appetizer perfect for any occasion. With corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and pickles, each bite is packed with flavor. Customize them to suit your tastes, whether you like a bit of spice or want to add crispy bacon. These pickle bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Happy snacking, and enjoy every tangy bite of these delicious Reuben Pickle Bites!