Reuben Sliders

These Reuben Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, perfect for gatherings or family dinners. With layers of savory pastrami, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls, these sliders are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just want a comforting meal, these mini sandwiches will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These sliders can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of pastrami, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering blend of flavors that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers at parties or as a main dish for family meals; they fit any occasion perfectly!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the toppings or add your favorite spices to make these sliders uniquely yours.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With their delicious taste and appealing presentation, these sliders are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create these tasty Reuben Sliders, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels
• Brush for butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and provides ample space for all 12 sliders.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients like melted butter with seasonings.
• Paper towels: Help remove excess moisture from the sauerkraut for better slider texture.
• Brush for butter: Allows you to evenly coat the tops of the sliders with the flavorful butter mixture.

Ingredients

These delicious Reuben Sliders combine all of the classic flavors of a traditional Reuben piled on Hawaiian rolls and baked until golden brown.

For the Sliders

• 1 package King’s Hawaiian rolls, 12 count (Can substitute with rye bread slider buns)
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island or Russian dressing
• 3/4 lb pastrami or roast beef, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained with excess moisture squeezed out
• 9 slices Swiss cheese

For the Topping Mixture

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried minced onion
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
• 2 tsp fresh parsley, minced (optional)

Optional Garnish

• 12 pickle slices

How to Make Reuben Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Drain the sauerkraut and use a paper towel to squeeze out any excess moisture. Set it aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

Slice your Hawaiian rolls in half. Spread Thousand Island dressing on both sides. Lay the bottom half of the rolls on a baking sheet or pan. Layer on pastrami followed by sauerkraut and slices of Swiss cheese. Replace the top bun and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Seasoned Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with Worcestershire sauce, dried minced onion, poppy seeds (if using), crushed garlic, and minced parsley. Mix well.

Step 4: Bake

Brush the seasoned butter mixture over the top of the sliders, ensuring all areas are coated. Cover the sliders with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes until golden brown. Cut them into individual sliders and serve with pickle slices if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Reuben Sliders

Reuben Sliders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual family dinner, these sliders can adapt to your serving style. Here are some great ideas on how to serve them.

For Game Day

• Serve with Chips: Pair your sliders with crunchy potato chips or tortilla chips for a classic snack combo.
• Add Dips: Include a side of creamy ranch or zesty salsa for dipping, enhancing the flavor experience.

At a Potluck

• Mini Slider Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter with toothpicks, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
• Label the Dish: Use small signs to label each type of slider so guests know what they’re enjoying.

Family Dinner

• With a Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal that balances flavors.
• Include Veggies: Add a veggie platter with hummus or ranch dip for a healthy crunch between bites.

As an Appetizer

• Skewers: Stack mini Reuben Sliders on skewers for easy handling at cocktail parties.
• Serving Sizes: Cut sliders into smaller pieces for bite-sized appetizers perfect for mingling guests.

How to Perfect Reuben Sliders

To elevate your Reuben Sliders, consider these helpful tips that will enhance their taste and texture.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use freshly cracked black pepper in your dressing mix for an extra kick.
• Crispy Cheese Layer: Broil the sliders for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to achieve perfectly crispy cheese.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality pastrami or roast beef; fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor.
• Layering Technique: Ensure even layers of meat, sauerkraut, and cheese for balanced bites in every slider.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the sliders rest for about 5 minutes after baking; this helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Reuben Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your Reuben Sliders can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement their rich flavors.

1. French Fries: Classic crispy fries seasoned with salt make an irresistible pairing.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the sliders.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort and goes well with hearty sandwiches.
4. Pickles: Serve dill pickles on the side to enhance the savory profile of the sliders.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
6. Macaroni Salad: A chilled macaroni salad provides a refreshing contrast to hot sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Reuben Sliders to a whole new level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Excess Moisture: If you don’t squeeze the sauerkraut well, it will make the sliders soggy. Always drain and press the sauerkraut before adding it to your sliders.

• Skipping the Dressing: Neglecting to spread Thousand Island dressing on both sides of the rolls can lead to dry sliders. Ensure every layer is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

• Overloading Ingredients: Adding too much pastrami or cheese might cause the sliders to fall apart. Stick to recommended portions for a balanced bite.

• Neglecting Butter Mixture: Failing to brush the seasoned butter over the top can result in bland tops. This step adds flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.

• Not Covering While Baking: Skipping the foil cover initially can lead to over-browning or drying out of sliders. Always cover them for part of the baking process for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Reuben Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Reuben Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake wrapped sliders for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each slider on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Reuben Sliders:

What are Reuben Sliders?

Reuben Sliders are mini sandwiches that feature layers of meat, cheese, and tangy dressing, all baked on soft rolls. They provide a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich.

Can I make Reuben Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my Reuben Sliders?

Feel free to swap meats or cheeses based on your preferences. You can also experiment with different types of bread or sauces!

Are Reuben Sliders suitable for parties?

Absolutely! These sliders make excellent appetizers or party snacks due to their bite-sized nature and rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Reuben Sliders combine traditional flavors with modern convenience, making them perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Feel free to customize ingredients according to your taste; they’re sure to impress everyone at your table!