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Some days you crave a classic deli sandwich but want to skip the bread This Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups recipe brings all the iconic flavors—melty Swiss cheese tangy sauerkraut zesty dressing and savory corned beef—into a hand-held snack with an irresistibly crunchy cheese wrap It is quick easy and fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle turning a beloved favorite into a weeknight winner
When I first tried cheese-based roll-ups my family devoured them before I could plate them Now we make these anytime we need a nostalgic comfort food fix without the carbs
Ingredients
- Shredded Swiss Cheese: gives structure and crunch as it bakes up crispy Try to use a block and shred it yourself for best melt and flavor
- Sliced Corned Beef Deli Meat: offers rich salty notes and authentic Reuben taste Look for slices that are evenly marbled and not too thick for best rolling
- Sauerkraut: adds tang and a probiotic punch Rinse and squeeze dry to avoid excess moisture
- Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base for the homemade dressing Go for full-fat for best mouthfeel
- Worcestershire Sauce: deepens the dressing with umami Try to choose a brand with no added sugar
- Sugar-Free Ketchup: delivers sweet and tangy notes without carbs Read the label to avoid hidden sugars
- Swerve Confectioner's Sugar Substitute: balances out the flavors A powdered sweetener blends best in the dressing
- Horseradish Sauce: brings that classic tingle Use prepared horseradish sauce not straight grated horseradish
- Paprika: brightens and adds subtle smokiness Try smoked paprika for bonus flavor
Instructions
- Prep the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Place racks in the center so cheese bakes evenly
- Shape the Cheese Circles
- Line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper Measure out your shredded Swiss cheese and form it into eight even circles about three inches across Space them so they do not touch as the cheese will spread while baking
- Bake the Cheese
- Place the baking sheet in the oven Bake cheese circles for about six to eight minutes Watch them closely as the edges should just begin to brown and crisp up Remove from oven when the edges are golden
- Mix the Dressing
- While the cheese bakes stir together mayonnaise Worcestershire sauce sugar-free ketchup Swerve horseradish sauce and paprika in a small bowl Blend until creamy and smooth Taste and adjust for tang salt or sweetness if needed
- Assemble the Roll-Ups
- Allow cheese circles to cool for about one minute so they can be handled but remain flexible Top each circle with a layer of corned beef a spoonful of sauerkraut and a drizzle of the homemade dressing
- Roll and Cool
- Quickly and gently fold each cheese circle up and over the fillings Before the cheese hardens shape it into a snug cylinder Hold for a moment to set Place roll-ups seam side down to cool and finish crisping
- Serve and Enjoy
- Once cool enough to handle and crisp throughout transfer to serving platters Serve with extra sauce for dipping if desired
If you are obsessed with Swiss cheese this is your dream recipe I love how it gets lacy and golden After baking a double batch my husband declared these better than any takeout Reuben moment ever
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at low heat to keep the cheese crisp Try to avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in turkey or pastrami if you do not have corned beef For the cheese mozzarella can work in a pinch though Swiss offers the truest Reuben taste If fresh sauerkraut is too strong try a mild jarred type and drain it well
Serving Suggestions
These roll-ups are a showstopper on a brunch platter with pickles and extra sauce For parties serve them bite-size with toothpicks For a meal add a crisp salad with Dijon vinaigrette
Cultural and Historical Context
The Reuben sandwich has roots in early 20th-century American delis especially among Jewish communities This keto version skips the rye bread but honors all the essential flavors keeping the spirit of the original alive
Seasonal Adaptations
Turn them into sliders by wrapping more filling and baking just a bit longer Stuff with shredded cabbage for a spring twist Serve with roasted root vegetables in cooler months
These roll-ups offer all the nostalgia of a deli favorite without the carbs Enjoy them warm and crisp with plenty of extra sauce for dipping
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you get the cheese circles crispy?
Bake the shredded Swiss cheese until the edges are golden and crisp. Allowing them to cool briefly helps them firm up even more.
- → Can I use another meat instead of corned beef?
Yes, pastrami, turkey, or roast beef can be substituted for variation while maintaining the roll-up structure.
- → Is sauerkraut important for flavor?
Sauerkraut adds essential tang and traditional Reuben flavor, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Roll-ups are best served fresh, but you can pre-bake the cheese and prep fillings in advance for quick assembly.
- → What dipping sauces work well?
The included creamy dressing is classic, but grainy mustard or sugar-free Russian sauces are also great options.