Mini Reubens are a fantastic appetizer that brings all the classic flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich into a convenient, bite-sized treat. Start with cocktail rye bread slices, each topped with thousand island dressing, folded corned beef, well-drained sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese. Broil these mini sandwiches for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve them warm for the best flavor. These Mini Reubens are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a fun snack. They pair wonderfully with pickles or coleslaw and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Mini Reubens are the perfect bite-sized appetizer, combining all the classic flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich into a convenient, hand-held treat. These delightful mini sandwiches are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
INGREDIENTS
- Cocktail Rye Bread: 1 (1 pound) loaf, perfect for bite-sized portions.
- Thousand Island Dressing: 1 cup, adding a creamy and tangy layer.
- Corned Beef: 1 ½ pounds of deli sliced corned beef, folded to fit the bread.
- Sauerkraut: 1 (16 ounce) jar, rinsed and well drained to reduce excess moisture.
- Swiss Cheese: 1 pound, sliced and cut to fit the bread, providing a rich and melty topping.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven's broiler to ensure it is hot and ready for the mini Reubens.
- Step 2:
- Arrange cocktail rye slices on a baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- Step 3:
- Top each slice of rye bread with about 2 teaspoons of thousand island salad dressing, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4:
- Fold about 1/2 slice of corned beef to fit the bread, and lay it over the dressing.
- Step 5:
- Place a small amount of sauerkraut over the corned beef, ensuring it is well drained to prevent sogginess.
- Step 6:
- Top with 1/4 slice of Swiss cheese, or a slice about as big as the bread, making sure the cheese covers the sauerkraut.
- Step 7:
- Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Step 8:
- Serve the mini Reubens warm and enjoy their delightful flavors.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Mini Reubens immediately while the cheese is still melty and warm for the best experience.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of caraway seeds for added flavor and presentation.
- These mini sandwiches pair well with a side of pickles or coleslaw to complement the tangy and savory flavors.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat the mini Reubens in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Helpful Notes
- You can substitute the corned beef with pastrami for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a thin layer of horseradish sauce beneath the thousand island dressing.
- Experiment with different types of bread, such as pumpernickel or sourdough, to suit your taste.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Alton Brown suggests lightly toasting the rye bread slices before adding the toppings for an extra crunch.
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using homemade thousand island dressing for a fresher, more flavorful touch.
- Chef Michael Symon advises draining the sauerkraut well and even pressing it between paper towels to remove excess moisture.