Party Reubens are a bite-sized twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, transforming deli flavors into an easy-to-serve appetizer that's perfect for gatherings. Inspired by the famous sandwich traditionally made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and rye bread, this recipe blends the filling into a creamy spread before broiling it on small slices of party rye. The result is a warm, cheesy appetizer with crispy toasted bread and tangy sauerkraut in every bite. These miniature sandwiches became especially popular for cocktail parties and holiday entertaining during the 1960s and 1970s, when simple make-ahead appetizers were a staple of home entertaining. Their savory flavor and easy preparation continue to make them a favorite for potlucks, game days, and festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 6 oz corned beef (cut into pieces, about ½ can)
- 8 oz sauerkraut (drained)
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
- 30 slices party rye bread
- 2 oz Swiss cheese (torn into pieces, about ½ cup)
Instructions
Step 1: Chop the Corned Beef
- Place half of the corned beef into a blender or food processor.
- Blend until finely chopped.
- Transfer to a bowl.
- Repeat with the remaining corned beef.
Step 2: Blend the Filling
- Place the drained sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing into the blender.
- Blend until the sauerkraut is finely chopped.
- Combine with the chopped corned beef and mix well.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
- Lightly toast one side of each slice of party rye bread under the broiler.
Step 4: Assemble
- Spread the corned beef mixture onto the untoasted side of each bread slice.
- Top each sandwich with pieces of Swiss cheese.
Step 5: Broil
- Place the sandwiches 3 to 4 inches beneath the broiler.
- Broil for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve warm.
Tips
- Use a food processor for faster chopping.
- Pat the sauerkraut dry to prevent soggy bread.
- Assemble ahead and broil just before serving.
- Try marble rye for extra color and flavor.
- Add a dash of caraway seeds for authentic Reuben flavor.
- Substitute pastrami for a different deli-inspired appetizer.
- Use shredded Swiss cheese for quicker melting.
- Add a small pickle slice after broiling for extra tang.
- Serve with spicy mustard on the side.
- Freeze the filling separately for future parties.
Nutrition
Calories: 62kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 4gFat: 3.2gSaturated Fat: 1.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.2gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 68mgFiber: 0.7gSugar: 1.4gVitamin A: 65IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 0.7mg