Imagine strolling into a vibrant gathering where laughter dances in the air and the enticing smell of savory snacks promises good times. Among the chatter and clinking glasses, you’ll catch someone raving about these Reuben Pickle Bites—a simple yet irresistible appetizer bursting with the classic flavors of a beloved Reuben sandwich. The crunch of pickles mingles with the tender corned beef and creamy dressing, creating a delightful bite that’s both familiar and new.
After a particularly busy week, I found myself searching for a crowd-pleasing snack that could be whipped up in no time. That’s when these little gems came into play, transforming leftover ingredients into a beautifully layered treat. In just 15 minutes, you can create a dish that not only satisfies the palate but brings friends and family together. Whether you’re hosting game day, a casual dinner, or simply want a comforting bite to enjoy on a weeknight, these Reuben Pickle Bites are sure to impress.
Why Are Reuben Pickle Bites So Amazing?
Quick, whip up these bites in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Flavor-packed, each bite bursts with the beloved combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles.
Customizable, feel free to swap ingredients for personal touch—try turkey or different cheeses!
Crispy & Creamy, your taste buds will relish the combination of crunchy pickles with smooth dressing.
Crowd-pleaser, these appetizers are guaranteed to be a hit at parties and get-togethers!
Reuben Pickle Bites Ingredients
A must-have for your next snack!
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; try Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Low-Sugar Ketchup – Provides sweetness and tang; regular ketchup works if sugar isn’t a concern.
- Sweet Pickle Relish – Offers sweetness and balances textures; substitute with chopped sweet pickles or a dash of sugar in diced cucumbers.
- Prepared Horseradish – Introduces heat and flavor depth; adjust quantity to taste for milder flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall flavor; vinegar can be used in place of lemon juice.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami and complexity; it’s optional if unavailable.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; use to taste.
For the Pickle Bites
- Pickle Chips (2 cups, drained) – The crunchy base of the bites; choose any type—dill, sweet, or spicy.
- Thinly Sliced Corned Beef (4 oz.) – Provides protein and classic Reuben flavor; substitute with turkey or vegetarian options like tempeh.
- Thinly Sliced Swiss Cheese (3 oz.) – Melts beautifully, enhancing richness; try cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
- Sauerkraut (1/4 cup) – Contributes tang and texture; coleslaw or chopped cabbage can be used for variation.
How to Make Reuben Pickle Bites
-
Prepare Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise, low-sugar ketchup, sweet pickle relish, horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
-
Assemble Bites: On a serving platter, start layering the drained pickle chips. First, place a slice of corned beef on each chip, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese, and then a small spoonful of sauerkraut. Drizzle the prepared sauce on top or serve it on the side for dipping.
-
Serve & Enjoy: You can serve the Reuben Pickle Bites immediately for a fresh taste or chill them briefly to let the flavors meld together. They’re best enjoyed as a finger food!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Reuben Pickle Bites Variations
Feel free to personalize these delightful bites with your favorite twists and substitutes!
- Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative to create a luscious bite without the dairy.
- Spicy Option: Add a layer of spicy jalapeños or sriracha sprinkled into the sauce for an exciting heat kick.
- Vegan Twist: Replace corned beef with marinated tempeh and use vegan cheese for a plant-based delight.
- Keto-Friendly: Swap out the sweet pickle relish for diced cucumbers and adjust the sauce to eliminate sugars.
- Crunchy Delight: Top with crushed potato chips for an added crunch that takes these bites to the next level.
- Mediterranean Flavor: Substitute horseradish with tzatziki sauce for a fresh and herbaceous twist that pairs perfectly with pickles.
- Herbed Cheese: Try cream cheese mixed with fresh dill instead of Swiss for a herby, creamy take on these bites.
- Savory Addition: Include crispy bacon bits or chorizo slices for a smoky, savory touch that levels up the flavor profile.
What to Serve with Reuben Pickle Bites?
Imagine hosting a gathering where each bite of your scrumptious Reuben Pickle Bites sparks joy and delight among family and friends.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: These golden, crispy wedges are the perfect sidekick, offering a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the creamy bites.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and tangy vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the savory flavors of the Reuben bites.
- Tangy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw mirrors the sauerkraut in the bites, enhancing the overall flavor while adding a delicious crunch.
- Homemade Tomato Soup: For a comforting twist, serve your bites alongside a warm bowl of rich tomato soup for dipping.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet, and crispy fries offer a different taste profile and balance the savory meatiness of the Reuben bites.
- Sour Cream and Chive Dip: A creamy dip that complements the bites, adding an extra layer of flavor while providing a cooling contrast.
- Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink will cleanse your palate between bites, offering a delightful zesty kick that matches the flavors of the appetizer.
- Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, indulge in fudgy brownies to end the meal on a sweet note—rich chocolate pairs beautifully with savory flavors!
Storage Tips for Reuben Pickle Bites
Fridge: Store any assembled Reuben Pickle Bites in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.
Avoid Dressing Early: To prevent sogginess, keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the pickles stay crunchy and enjoyable.
Reheating: If you prefer to warm them slightly, you can microwave them on low power, just until the cheese begins to melt. Enjoy them warm for a comforting treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Reuben Pickle Bites are perfect for meal prep and make entertaining a breeze! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can slice the corned beef and cheese ahead of time—this can be done up to 24 hours prior to serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, layer the drained pickle chips with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, and drizzle or serve the prepared sauce on the side. This way, you’ll have delicious Reuben Pickle Bites ready to delight your guests with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Reuben Pickle Bites
• Sauce Variations: Enhance flavor by using homemade Russian dressing. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients for a unique twist.
• Pickle Preference: Select your favorite style of pickles—dill, bread and butter, or spicy—to customize your Reuben Pickle Bites to your taste.
• Prevent Sogginess: Assemble the bites just before serving to keep the pickles crunchy. Avoid dressing them too early, as this can lead to sogginess.
• Serve Warm or Chilled: While these bites are delicious chilled, serving them slightly warm can enhance the creamy texture of the melted cheese.
• Storage Tips: Best enjoyed fresh, these Reuben Pickle Bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce separate for optimal freshness.
Reuben Pickle Bites Recipe FAQs
What kind of pickles should I use for Reuben Pickle Bites?
You can choose any type of pickles to suit your taste, like dill, sweet, or spicy! I often go for dill pickles for that classic tanginess, but feel free to pick your favorite to give it a personal touch.
How should I store leftover Reuben Pickle Bites?
Absolutely! To keep them fresh, store assembled Reuben Pickle Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze Reuben Pickle Bites?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing these bites, as the pickles can become mushy after freezing and thawing. Instead, they’re best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, be sure to store them in the fridge for up to two days.
What if I can’t find horseradish?
No worries at all! If you can’t find prepared horseradish, you can either omit it entirely or use a mild hot sauce as a substitute. Start with a few drops and adjust according to your taste to give your sauce that kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I make these Reuben Pickle Bites ahead of time?
Sure thing! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, I recommend assembling the bites just before serving, as pickles can become soggy if left too long. In just 5-10 minutes before your gathering, layer the ingredients together and serve!
Are these suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Great question! For those with dairy allergies, you can swap the Swiss cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use vegan mayonnaise to make the sauce. This way, you still get that creamy texture while making the bites enjoyable for everyone!
Irresistible Reuben Pickle Bites: Quick Snack Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise, low-sugar ketchup, sweet pickle relish, horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- On a serving platter, start layering the drained pickle chips. First, place a slice of corned beef on each chip, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese, and then a small spoonful of sauerkraut. Drizzle the prepared sauce on top or serve it on the side for dipping.
- You can serve the Reuben Pickle Bites immediately for a fresh taste or chill them briefly to let the flavors meld together. They’re best enjoyed as a finger food!