There is something irresistibly delightful about mini sandwiches packed with all the classic flavors of a deli favorite, and this Reuben Sliders Recipe hits every note perfectly. These sliders bring together the juicy, tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and that creamy, zesty Thousand Island dressing all nestled inside soft slider buns and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or just craving a nostalgic treat, these little bites deliver big flavor and satisfy every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable flavor experience, each playing its part in adding texture, creaminess, tanginess, and that comforting warmth that makes this dish a standout.
- Slider buns (12-count): Soft and slightly sweet, these provide the perfect vehicle for all the fillings without overpowering them.
- Thinly sliced corned beef (1 pound): Tender, savory, and the star protein that carries traditional Reuben flavors.
- Sauerkraut (1 cup, drained and squeezed dry): Adds a zingy crunch and a balancing tang that cuts through the richness.
- Swiss cheese (12 slices): Melts beautifully, offering a mild nuttiness and gooey texture.
- Thousand Island dressing (1/2 cup): Creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly tangy to bring all the flavors together.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Richness and a golden finish, helping create that irresistible crust.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle kick that complements the corned beef and cheese.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): For depth and a touch of savory warmth.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the umami and rounds out the spices.
- Poppy seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and a pop of texture on top.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, bright finish to contrast the rich layers.
How to Make Reuben Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the buns and dressing base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Keeping the slider buns connected, slice them horizontally so you have a base and a top layer. Lay the bottom halves evenly inside a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form a sturdy foundation for our flavorful layers. Next, spread the Thousand Island dressing generously over these bottoms; this creamy, tangy layer ensures every bite is moistened with that signature Reuben taste.
Step 2: Layer up the fillings
Now for the best part: layering! Place the thinly sliced corned beef evenly over the dressing-covered buns, making sure every slider gets a hearty portion. Follow with the well-drained sauerkraut, carefully squeezing out any excess liquid to prevent sogginess. Top each slider with a slice of Swiss cheese to add that melty, luscious element that binds all the flavors together.
Step 3: Add and crisp the tops
Close the sliders with the top halves of the buns. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, and poppy seeds if using. This buttery mixture brushed on top will create that golden, flavorful crust. Be generous here to ensure a deliciously crisp finish once baked.
Step 4: Bake to perfection
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake the sliders for 15 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt completely and the flavors to meld. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, until the tops turn a delightful golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning, but trust that this step is where the magic happens. Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you want a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Reuben Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a lovely visual contrast and a subtle herbal note that brightens the bold flavors. You can also offer some extra Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping to elevate the indulgence factor.
Side Dishes
These sliders pair wonderfully with crisp potato chips or a crunchy pickle spear to cut the richness. If you want to keep things classic, a simple coleslaw or a light green salad offers a refreshing balance. For game day, consider serving alongside crispy fries or warm onion rings for a feast everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, arrange the sliders on a rustic wooden board or a festive platter for easy grabbing. You can even skewer each slider with a decorative toothpick or fun pick to ensure they hold together beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve each slider open-faced with an extra drizzle of dressing and a few sauerkraut strands artfully placed on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them chilled to prevent the sauerkraut from making the bread soggy. When ready to eat, reheat gently to keep the cheese gooey without drying out the corned beef.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked prepared sliders by wrapping the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh-baked Reuben sliders anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Warm them in a 325°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, so you preserve the delicious textures and avoid soggy bread.
FAQs
Can I use Russian dressing instead of Thousand Island?
Absolutely! Russian dressing has a slightly spicier, tangier profile that works beautifully as a substitute if you want a little more zip in your Reuben sliders.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy buns?
Draining and squeezing the sauerkraut dry is key, along with evenly spreading dressing only on the bottom buns. Baking immediately after assembling helps keep moisture from soaking into the bread too much.
Can I make this vegetarian?
While the traditional Reuben slider relies on corned beef, you can swap in grilled tempeh or marinated mushrooms for a tasty plant-based version without losing that savory punch.
How long do these sliders last after baking?
For best taste and texture, enjoy them within the same day of baking. However, properly stored leftovers remain tasty for up to 3 days refrigerated.
Are poppy seeds necessary on top?
Poppy seeds add a subtle crunch and visual appeal but aren’t required. Feel free to skip them or substitute with sesame seeds for a different flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer or a comforting mini sandwich that brings a deli classic to your table, you really must try this Reuben Sliders Recipe. It’s fun, easy to make, and delivers all those beloved tastes in convenient little bites. Once you take that first warm, melty bite, you’ll be hooked just like I am. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy the magic of these sliders for your next gathering or cozy night in!
Print
Reuben Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Reuben Sliders perfect for parties, game day, or a tasty main course. These mini sandwiches feature layers of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and flavorful Thousand Island dressing, all baked to golden perfection on buttery poppy seed-topped slider buns.
Ingredients
Slider Assembly
- 1 package (12-count) slider buns
- 1 pound thinly sliced corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut (drained and squeezed dry)
- 12 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the sliders evenly.
- Prepare the Slider Buns: Without separating the buns, slice the entire package horizontally in half. Place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base.
- Assemble Layers: Spread the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the bottom halves of the buns. Next, layer with the thinly sliced corned beef, followed by the well-drained sauerkraut, and then place the Swiss cheese slices on top.
- Add Top Buns: Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese layer, covering the assembled ingredients.
- Make Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, and optional poppy seeds. Mix well to create a flavorful topping.
- Brush the Tops: Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the buns to add flavor and help them brown beautifully during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 7 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional – sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. Slice the sliders apart and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Ensure the sauerkraut is well drained and squeezed dry to prevent soggy sliders.
- Russian dressing can be used as a flavorful substitute for Thousand Island dressing.
- These sliders can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving to save preparation time.
