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Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups transform the familiar flavors of a Reuben sandwich into a fun and crispy handheld snack. This recipe brings together melted Swiss cheese as a crispy edible wrap, savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and a creamy, flavorful dressing all in one bite. Perfect for those following a keto diet or anyone looking for a low-carb twist on a classic.
I first made these roll-ups on a busy weeknight when I wanted something special but fast. Now they are a favorite for game day or satisfying cravings without kicking me out of ketosis.
Ingredients
- Two cups shredded Swiss cheese: essential for creating the crispy outer shell, choose a good quality Swiss for smooth melting and rich flavor
- Half a pound sliced corned beef deli meat: which adds a hearty and savory protein layer, opt for lean slices with minimal additives
- One cup sauerkraut: providing tanginess and a bit of crunch, look for refrigerated sauerkraut for freshness and better texture
- Quarter cup mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of the dressing, use full fat for richness
- One teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: contributes depth and mild umami notes, choose a gluten-free brand if needed
- One and a half tablespoons sugar-free ketchup: for familiar sweetness without sugars, make sure it is keto-friendly
- Two teaspoons Swerve confectioner’s sugar substitute: adds a touch of sweetness without carbs, a well-known keto-friendly sweetener
- One tablespoon horseradish sauce: provides a spicy kick, fresh and pungent horseradish sauce works best
- A pinch of paprika: to sprinkle on the dressing for a warm smoky finish, opt for quality smoked paprika if you like a deeper flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it reaches the perfect heat for crisping the cheese without burning it.
- Create the Cheese Circles:
- Arrange the shredded Swiss cheese into eight evenly sized circles on parchment paper placed on one or two baking sheets. This shaping is key for the roll-up bases.
- Bake Until Crispy:
- Place the baking sheet(s) in the oven and bake for six to eight minutes, watching closely for the edges to turn golden brown and form a crispy texture.
- Mix the Dressing:
- While the cheese bakes, combine mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, sugar-free ketchup, Swerve, horseradish sauce, and a pinch of paprika in a bowl to make the tangy dressing.
- Cool and Top the Cheese:
- Remove the cheese circles from the oven and allow them to cool for one minute so they are still pliable but not hot. Then, add slices of corned beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, and a drizzle of dressing on each circle.
- Roll Them Up:
- Before the cheese hardens completely, gently fold the cheese over the fillings to form compact roll-ups. Quick action is needed to avoid cracking the cheese.
- Let Them Crisp:
- Place the roll-ups back on the tray and let them cool slightly which allows the cheese to crisp fully and hold its shape.
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Swiss cheese is my favorite part of this dish; it crisps so beautifully and acts as a natural wrap that eliminates the need for bread. Making these roll-ups reminds me of cozy family gatherings where we wanted all the comfort of a Reuben sandwich without the carbs creeping in.
Storage Tips
Store cool leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They taste best eaten within two days, but you can re-crisp in a hot oven for a few minutes before serving. For longer storage, freeze the rolled-up portions separated by parchment paper.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have Swiss cheese, try mozzarella for a milder flavor or provolone for a smokier note. Pastrami can replace corned beef for a different deli meat twist. If sauerkraut is not available, finely chopped pickles or kimchi add a nice fermented tang.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these roll-ups with a simple green salad or some crunchy celery sticks. They make fantastic appetizers or a quick lunch paired with pickle slices or a side of mustard for dipping.
Cultural Context
The Reuben sandwich is a classic American deli staple that originated in New York City and has roots tracing back to various immigrant influences. Transforming it into a keto-friendly roll-up keeps the spirit of the sandwich alive through its essential flavors without traditional rye bread.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you prevent the cheese from sticking?
Using parchment paper on the baking sheet ensures the cheese crisps up without sticking, making removal easy.
- → Can different cheeses be used for this dish?
Yes, experimenting with cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella can add unique flavors and textures to the roll-ups.
- → How do I know when the cheese is ready to roll?
The cheese should be golden and starting to crisp around the edges but still warm and flexible enough to fold gently.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness before serving.
- → Are these roll-ups suitable for quick gatherings?
Absolutely, they take less than 20 minutes to prepare and offer a flavorful, handheld option perfect for social occasions.