Reuben Pretzel Sliders

Reuben Pretzel Sliders

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Craving a pub-style bite without leaving your kitchen? These Reuben Pretzel Sliders are the kind of game-day or party food that disappears before they even hit the table. They combine the tang of sauerkraut, the melty richness of Swiss cheese, and the saltiness of corned beef, all hugged by buttery, golden pretzel buns. It’s like your favorite deli sandwich, but reimagined into an irresistible, gooey pull-apart slider.

Perfect for potlucks, tailgates, or a cozy snack night, these sliders pack bold, savory flavor into every bite. The toasted pretzel rolls offer that chewy contrast to the juicy meat and creamy dressing, and they hold together beautifully when baked. You can assemble them ahead of time and simply bake before serving — no stress, all satisfaction.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make these Reuben Pretzel Sliders, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials that make prep and assembly quick and mess-free:

  • Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: Choose one that snugly fits your sliders, ensuring the cheese melts just right and nothing dries out.
  • Sharp Bread Knife or Serrated Knife: To slice your pretzel buns cleanly and evenly without tearing the tops.
  • Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients like your Thousand Island dressing or seasoning your sauerkraut.
  • Pastry Brush: Ideal for brushing that buttery topping across the slider buns for that glossy, golden finish.
  • Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup faster.

Using the right tools not only saves time but guarantees evenly baked sliders with beautifully crisp tops and warm, melty centers.


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Ingredients for the Reuben Pretzel Sliders

  • Mini Pretzel Slider Buns: These offer a chewy, golden crust that holds up to all the fillings.
  • Thinly Sliced Corned Beef: The star of any Reuben. Its saltiness balances perfectly with the cheese and kraut.
  • Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds the signature creamy tang to each bite.
  • Sauerkraut: Drained and seasoned; it adds a vinegary pop and cuts through the richness.
  • Thousand Island Dressing: Creamy and slightly sweet, this ties all the ingredients together.
  • Butter (melted): For brushing on top, giving that glossy, golden look and added richness.
  • Garlic Powder + Onion Powder: Seasoning for the melted butter.
  • Sesame Seeds or Everything Bagel Seasoning (optional): Adds a flavorful crunch on top.

Every ingredient plays a role in building up those classic Reuben flavors with a handheld, party-friendly twist.


How To Make the Reuben Pretzel Sliders

Step 1: Slice and Prep the Buns

Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each pretzel bun in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves into a parchment-lined baking dish.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Start with a layer of Thousand Island dressing on the bottom buns. Add a generous portion of sliced corned beef, followed by Swiss cheese, and then a spoonful of well-drained sauerkraut.

Step 3: Add the Tops

Place the top halves of the pretzel buns back on. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and onion powder. Brush the tops generously.

Step 4: Bake

Cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 5-7 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 5: Serve

Let them sit for a few minutes before cutting. Serve warm while the cheese is at peak gooeyness.


Serving and Storing Reuben Pretzel Sliders

These sliders are best served straight from the oven, warm and gooey. Use a sharp knife to slice through the layers cleanly and serve with extra Thousand Island dressing on the side. They’re perfect as party appetizers, game-day snacks, or even a casual dinner.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pretzel buns chewy and rubbery.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Drain the sauerkraut thoroughly and don’t overdo the dressing. Baking uncovered at the end also helps crisp the tops.

Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?

Absolutely! Pastrami has a smoky flavor that works beautifully with the other ingredients.

What can I use instead of Thousand Island dressing?

Russian dressing is a great substitute, or you can make a quick mix with mayo, ketchup, and relish.

Are pretzel buns necessary?

They elevate the flavor and texture, but you can substitute with Hawaiian rolls or brioche sliders in a pinch.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything except the butter topping and baking. Store covered in the fridge and bake when ready.


Want More Slider Ideas?

You might also enjoy the Cheeseburger Sliders if you’re into classic comfort flavors. For something cheesy and playful, try the Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers — perfect for a party platter.

If you’re in the mood for a sandwich-inspired salad twist, the Italian Grinder Salad delivers bold deli flavor in bowl form.

For pasta-based comfort with a beefy kick, consider my Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta that layers similar savory notes.

And when cozy soup season hits, you’ll love pairing sliders with the Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup — a full meal that feels like a warm hug.


Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your slider or appetizer board for later. Just click the Pin button and add it to your Pinterest.

If you give these Reuben Pretzel Sliders a try, I’d love to know how it went! Did you go classic or add your twist? Drop a comment below — and don’t forget to check out my Pinterest page where I share daily recipe inspo straight from my kitchen.


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Reuben Pretzel Sliders

Reuben Pretzel Sliders


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  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sliders

Description

These Reuben Pretzel Sliders are the perfect party appetizer or snack, blending the bold flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese between soft, golden pretzel buns. Brushed with a savory butter topping and baked until gooey, they bring deli-style flavor to your oven without fuss.


Ingredients

12 mini pretzel slider buns

1 pound thinly sliced corned beef

8 slices Swiss cheese

1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained

1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing

1/4 cup butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Slice pretzel buns in half horizontally and place the bottoms in the baking dish.

3. Spread Thousand Island dressing on the bottom buns.

4. Layer with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut.

5. Top with the upper halves of the pretzel buns.

6. In a bowl, mix melted butter with garlic and onion powders.

7. Brush butter mixture over the tops of the buns.

8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or seasoning if using.

9. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

10. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and tops are golden.

11. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid soggy buns.

You can prep the sliders up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

For added flavor, use a mix of garlic butter and everything bagel seasoning on top.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slider
  • Calories: 285
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 740mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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