Mini Reuben Bites are tiny but mighty! These tasty snacks are made with juicy corned beef, creamy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all nestled in crunchy bread. Yum!
Perfect for parties or a fun family meal, they’re so easy to grab and enjoy. Just watch out; they might disappear fast—everyone loves these little bites! 😄 I like to serve them with a side of dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Sandwich Bread: This is the base for your bites. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try whole grain or rye bread. Rye gives a nice subtle flavor, perfect for a Reuben!
Deli Corned Beef or Pastrami: Corned beef is the classic choice, but if you’re aiming for a lighter option, turkey pastrami works great! It still captures that tasty Reuben flavor without all the fat.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss is traditional, but you can swap it with provolone for a milder taste or even cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just make sure it melts well!
Sauerkraut: Ensure it’s drained and patted dry to prevent sogginess. For a twist, you could use coleslaw mix for a crunchier texture and a different flavor profile.
Thousand Island or Russian Dressing: If you’re not a fan, a simple mix of mayonnaise and ketchup with a touch of pickle juice also works! It will still give you that zesty kick!
How Do You Make Sure Your Reuben Bites Are Crispy?
The key to perfectly crispy Mini Reuben Bites is all about the breading and frying technique. Here is how to achieve that golden crunch:
- Start by flattening the bread well; it not only makes wrapping easier but also helps with uniform cooking.
- Ensure you fully coat the rolls in the egg wash and then the breadcrumb mixture. This double coating creates that delightful crispy texture!
- Don’t crowd the pan while frying. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature, which is crucial for crispiness.
- Let them drain on a paper towel after frying to remove excess oil and keep them crisp.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have Mini Reuben Bites that are perfectly crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside! Enjoy making these crowd-pleasers!
Mini Reuben Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed
- 8 slices deli corned beef or pastrami
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island or Russian dressing
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and fry, making it a perfect option for a quick meal or snack. You can enjoy these tasty bites hot and fresh, right after cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by preheating vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil so that the bites can float while frying for a crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take each slice of white sandwich bread and use a rolling pin to flatten it into a thin square. Flattening the bread will make it easier to roll and allow it to hold the filling nicely!
3. Build the Filling:
Place one slice of Swiss cheese on each piece of flattened bread. Next, layer one slice of corned beef or pastrami and add a spoonful of drained sauerkraut on top of the cheese. This mixture of flavors is classic Reuben!
4. Roll It Up:
Carefully roll each bread slice tightly around the filling, making sure to press the edges gently to seal. If the edges don’t stick well, you can wet them with a drop of water for help.
5. Set Up for Breading:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until blended. In another bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder for extra flavor and crunch!
6. Bread the Rolls:
Now, it’s time to coat the rolls! Dip each rolled sandwich first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s fully coated.
7. Fry the Bites:
Carefully place the coated rolls into the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed!
8. Drain and Slice:
Once fried, remove the bites from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Cool slightly, then slice each roll into bite-sized pieces. This makes them perfect for snacking!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mini Reuben Bites warm with a side of Thousand Island or Russian dressing for dipping. If you want to add a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley on top.
Now you’re all set to enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Mini Reuben Bites! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While white sandwich bread is the classic choice, you can use rye, whole grain, or even sourdough for a different flavor. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling.
What Can I Substitute for Sauerkraut?
If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, try using coleslaw mix for a crunchier texture or simply shredded cabbage tossed in vinegar for a similar tangy profile. Both will work nicely in the recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Mini Reuben Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prep the bites ahead of time! Assemble them and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. This way, you can quickly fry them when you’re ready to serve!
