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Mini Reuben Bites on Rye Crackers

Yields24 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time15 minsTotal Time30 mins

Mini Reuben Bites on Rye Crackers are a bite-sized twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian-style dressing baked on crisp rye crackers. Perfect for parties, game day, or easy crowd-pleasing appetizers.

Mini Reuben Bites on Rye Crackers

Makes 20–24 bites
For the Reuben Bites
 24 rye crackers or rye crostini
 6 oz corned beef, finely chopped
 ½ cup sauerkraut, well-drained and chopped
 4 oz Swiss cheese, shredded or finely chopped
 Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)
For the Dressing
 ¼ cup mayonnaise
 1 ½ tbsp ketchup
 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
 ½ tsp Dijon mustard
 ½ tsp lemon juice or pickle juice
Optional Garnish
 Chopped fresh parsley
 Extra sauerkraut or caraway seeds for finishing
Preheat & Prep
1

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange rye crackers in a single layer.

Make the Dressing
2

  • In a small bowl, stir together mayo, ketchup, relish, Dijon, and lemon juice.

  • Taste and adjust for tang or sweetness.

Assemble the Bites
3

  • In a bowl, mix corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and 2–3 tablespoons of dressing.

  • Spoon a heaping teaspoon of mixture onto each cracker.

  • Finish with a crack of black pepper.

Bake
4

  • Bake for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and crackers are lightly toasted.

  • Serve warm.

Pairing Suggestions
5

  • Drinks:

    • Crisp lager or pilsner

    • Amber ale or Irish red ale

    • Dry Riesling or Grüner Veltliner

  • Other Bites to Serve Alongside:

    • Fried Pickle Chips with Dill Dip

    • Potato Rösti with Sour Cream

    • Shaved Pear & Gorgonzola Crostini

Tips & Notes
6

  • Drain the sauerkraut well to keep crackers crisp — press with paper towels if needed.

  • Swap the meat: Pastrami works beautifully for a smokier flavor.

  • No oven? Melt the cheese under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely.

  • Make ahead: Assemble bites up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

24 servings

Serving size