Irresistible Reuben Style Tortilla Roll-Ups: Your Ultimate Make-Ahead Party Appetizer
Tortilla roll-ups, affectionately known as “pinwheels,” are a universally loved appetizer perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re tailgating before the big game, hosting a game day party at home, or putting together an elegant cocktail reception, these bite-sized delights are always a crowd-pleaser. Our Reuben-Style Tortilla Roll-Ups offer a unique and delicious twist on traditional versions, bringing all the iconic flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich into a convenient and delightful pinwheel form. Imagine the savory goodness of corned beef, the tangy zest of sauerkraut, and the creamy richness of cream cheese, all rolled into one irresistible bite.
This week, transform the ordinary into the extraordinary! Whip up a batch of these flavorful Reuben Style Tortilla Roll-Ups and watch them disappear from the platter. They’re not just an appetizer; they’re an experience.
With tailgating season in full swing and the festive holidays rapidly approaching, everyone is on the lookout for a reliable, easy-to-make recipe that promises to impress guests at upcoming parties and family get-togethers. Look no further! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can effortlessly create a stunning tray of these delectable tortilla roll-ups, guaranteed to offer both incredible taste and a festive, eye-catching presentation. These pinwheels are a brilliant way to serve classic flavors in a fun, shareable format that guests will adore.
My popular taco tortilla roll-ups are incredibly flavorful, featuring a zesty cream cheese spread with black olives, green chiles, and sharp cheddar cheese, often served with a side of homemade salsa for dipping. Building on that success, I started contemplating how the robust, savory flavors of a classic Reuben Sandwich could be translated into an equally delightful pinwheel recipe. And I’m thrilled to confirm, my instincts were absolutely right! The result is a savory, tangy, and creamy appetizer that captures the essence of a Reuben in every bite.
This incredibly easy party appetizer is proudly sponsored by my friends at Frank’s Kraut. While they support this recipe, my strong opinions and lifelong affection for their exceptional sauerkraut are entirely my own and deeply rooted in family tradition.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THESE CORNED BEEF TORTILLA ROLL-UPS
These Reuben-style tortilla pinwheels are more than just an appetizer; they are a culinary revelation for any host. Their appeal lies in their incredible simplicity, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks. You’ll find them exceptionally easy to prepare, serve, and, most importantly, devour! The harmonious blend of flavors—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese, all bound together with a seasoned cream cheese spread—creates an unforgettable taste experience that mirrors the beloved Reuben sandwich.
One of the standout features of these pinwheels is their fantastic make-ahead potential. You can assemble them hours, or even a full day, before your event, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and intensifying their deliciousness. This characteristic also makes them incredibly easy to transport, ideal for potlucks, picnics, or when you’re bringing a dish to a friend’s party. Beyond being a stellar party snack, these roll-ups are wonderfully versatile. Pack them as a satisfying picnic lunch, a creative alternative to a traditional sandwich for work, or a fun, flavorful after-school snack for kids (and adults!).
You will truly appreciate how effortlessly this recipe incorporates all the traditional, robust flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich into a compact, finger-food format. If your heart sings for everything Reuben, then you absolutely must explore these other “Reubenized” appetizer recipes that capture the same iconic taste: the rich and creamy Reuben Cheese Ball, the warm and comforting Crock Pot Reuben Dip, and the delightful, crispy Reuben Wonton Purses. Each offers a unique way to enjoy those cherished Reuben flavors.
HOW DID THE REUBEN SANDWICH GET ITS NAME?
The origin of the Reuben sandwich is a tale often debated, with many mistakenly attributing its creation to Germany or Ireland due to its key ingredients. However, the true story places its invention firmly in America during the early 20th century. While some culinary historians point to a delicatessen in New York City, I personally hold a fond belief in the version that claims its roots right here in my hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, specifically at the renowned Blackstone Hotel.
According to this compelling local lore, the very first Reuben Sandwich was crafted by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Jewish Lithuanian-born grocer. Mr. Kulakofsky was a regular at a weekly poker game held at the Blackstone Hotel, a tradition that spanned from 1920 to 1935. The close-knit group of players affectionately referred to themselves as “The Committee.” During one of these card games, Reuben concocted a special sandwich for his friends. The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread was an instant sensation among the players. They loved the sandwich so much that they implored one of their fellow poker players, Charles Schimmel, who also happened to be the owner of the Blackstone Hotel, to add it to the hotel’s prestigious lunch menu.
And just like that, the Reuben sandwich, with its distinctive taste and name, rose to fame, spreading its deliciousness far beyond the poker table. That’s the story I’ve grown up with, and it’s the one I proudly stand by!
For a deeper dive into the fascinating history and versatility of this iconic sandwich, be sure to check out my comprehensive post on the Reuben sandwich, which also includes fantastic ideas on How to Reubenize anything!
INGREDIENTS NEEDED FOR REUBEN PINWHEELS
Crafting these delightful Reuben pinwheels requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients, each playing a crucial role in replicating the classic sandwich experience.
- Flour Tortillas – The foundation of our roll-ups! While various sizes exist, for perfectly sized pinwheels that are easy to roll and slice, you will want to choose large flour tortillas, ideally at least 10 inches in diameter. These provide ample surface area for an even spread of the delicious filling.
- Cream Cheese – The creamy binder that holds all the deliciousness together. It’s essential to soften your cream cheese before mixing. Simply take it out of the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before you plan to assemble your pinwheels. This ensures a smooth, lump-free spread that is easy to work with.
- Caraway Seeds – These tiny but mighty seeds are the secret ingredient that truly elevates these roll-ups, imparting that unmistakable “rye bread” appeal. Their distinctive nutty, slightly bittersweet, and aromatic flavor is a hallmark of the classic Reuben, bringing authentic depth to our pinwheels.
- Deli Corned Beef – The star protein of our Reuben. You can utilize leftover cooked corned beef if you have it, which is a fantastic way to repurpose holiday meal remnants. Alternatively, when purchasing from the deli counter, ask for it to be sliced a little thicker than usual. This ensures a more substantial texture within the roll-ups.
- Green Onions – While not traditionally found in a classic Reuben sandwich, chopped green onions are a brilliant addition to this recipe. They introduce a subtle, fresh oniony zest and a hint of vibrant color that significantly brightens and elevates the overall flavor profile of the pinwheels.
- Frank’s Kraut – Absolutely indispensable for an authentic Reuben experience! Hands down, this is the best sauerkraut on the planet. Its crisp texture and perfectly balanced tang are crucial. Remember to drain and chop the sauerkraut finely before adding it to the mixture, ensuring it integrates smoothly into the cream cheese spread.
- Swiss Cheese – Providing that signature nutty, mild, and slightly sweet flavor profile. You’ll need shredded Swiss cheese for this recipe. While pre-shredded varieties are readily available in most markets, I highly recommend taking the extra step to grate your own. Freshly grated cheese melts and blends more smoothly and often has a superior flavor and texture compared to its pre-shredded counterparts, which can sometimes contain anti-caking agents.
HOW TO MAKE REUBEN-STYLE TORTILLA ROLL-UPS
Pinwheel recipes are renowned for being among the quickest and most convenient appetizers to assemble, making them an ideal choice for make-ahead snacks or last-minute party contributions. The precise measurements for each ingredient and comprehensive, step-by-step instructions can be found in the printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post. However, here’s a detailed breakdown of the process to ensure your Reuben-style tortilla roll-ups turn out perfectly every time:
FIRST: Begin by ensuring your cream cheese is properly softened. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the caraway seeds. Use your electric mixer to whip these two ingredients together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined. The goal here is to evenly distribute the caraway seeds, which provide that essential rye-bread flavor, throughout the creamy base.
SECOND: Once the cream cheese and caraway seeds are blended, use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated. Then, add the chopped corned beef, sliced green onions, and the drained and chopped Frank’s Kraut to the bowl. Continue to beat the mixture with your electric mixer until all components are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed. Again, scrape the bowl once during this process to ensure no ingredients are left unmixed.
THIRD: Lay your flour tortillas flat on a clean work surface. Take a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture and spread it evenly across the entire surface of each tortilla, extending it all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite of the pinwheel will be flavorful. Next, sprinkle a layer of shredded Swiss cheese over the cream cheese mixture. Once the filling is spread and topped with cheese, carefully and tightly roll up each tortilla from one edge to the other, creating a firm log.
FOURTH: This step is crucial for perfect slicing and flavor development. Tightly wrap each individual roll-up in plastic wrap. The tighter the wrap, the better the roll-up will hold its shape. Once wrapped, place them in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Chilling them overnight, for up to 24 hours, is even better, as it allows the flavors to truly meld and makes slicing the pinwheels much easier and cleaner the following day. This firming-up period is key to preventing a messy cut.
FIFTH: Once thoroughly chilled, remove the plastic wrap from each roll-up. Using a sharp knife, first trim off the very ends of the tortillas – these often aren’t as neat or full of filling. Then, proceed to slice each roll-up into uniform ½ to 1-inch thick pinwheels. A clean, decisive cut will ensure your pinwheels maintain their beautiful spiral shape. Arrange them artfully on a platter for an inviting presentation.
For the complete and authentic Reuben experience, serve these delicious pinwheels with a side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping. Its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes perfectly complement the savory flavors of the roll-ups, tying everything together beautifully.
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Don’t forget where you found the recipe for these incredible Reuben Style Pinwheels! Pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board before you go, so you can easily find it for your next party or craving!
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PERFECT REUBEN PINWHEELS
Achieving the best possible Reuben pinwheels is simple with a few smart techniques. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you make these appetizers shine:
- In order for the complex flavors to meld beautifully and for the roll-ups to become firm enough for clean, neat slices, it is absolutely crucial to chill them for a minimum of 3 hours. Ideally, chilling them overnight (up to 24 hours) yields the best results, allowing the textures to set perfectly and deepening the flavor profile.
- When you’re ready to serve, enhance the visual appeal and add an extra layer of freshness by garnishing your platter of pinwheels with a sprinkle of additional freshly sliced green onions. The bright green offers a lovely contrast and a fresh aroma.
- For elegant serving and to help each individual roll-up maintain its structural integrity, consider plating them on their sides rather than laying them flat. For added security, especially if guests will be mingling and eating on the go, you can gently insert a decorative toothpick into each pinwheel.
- Should you be fortunate enough to have any leftovers – which is a rare occurrence with these delicious bites! – rest assured that the roll-ups will remain fresh and flavorful in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
- To truly complete the authentic Reuben experience, these Reuben Style Tortilla Roll-ups are best served with a generous side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping. The creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing perfectly echoes the traditional flavors of the Reuben sandwich. If you’re feeling ambitious, try making your own! Here’s my recipe for Homemade Thousand Island Dressing – it’s truly exceptional and makes all the difference!
THE BENEFITS OF SAUERKRAUT
Beyond its distinctive tangy flavor and crucial role in Reuben recipes, sauerkraut offers an impressive array of health benefits, stemming both from its primary ingredient, cabbage, and its unique fermentation process. This fermented food is a powerhouse for digestive health and overall well-being.
Sauerkraut is widely recognized for its ability to significantly aid in digestion. This is primarily due to the abundant presence of probiotics, beneficial live bacteria that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. These probiotics help balance gut flora, improve nutrient absorption, and can alleviate common digestive issues. Additionally, sauerkraut is remarkably high in dietary fiber, which further supports digestive regularity and gut health. Moreover, it is an excellent source of essential vitamins, including Vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function) and Vitamin K (important for blood clotting and bone health), as well as vital minerals like folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients contribute to energy production, bone density, and overall bodily functions.
Furthermore, sauerkraut has been shown to be beneficial for weight management. It is naturally low in calories, sugar, and fat, making it a guilt-free addition to your diet. Its high fiber content contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie intake and support weight loss efforts. Incorporating a portion of sauerkraut into your daily diet can bring about a multitude of positive health outcomes: it can significantly strengthen your immune system, enhance your digestion, potentially reduce your risk of certain chronic diseases due to its antioxidant properties, and even assist you in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. It’s truly a superfood that brings both flavor and function to your plate.
Frank’s Kraut: A Family Tradition and Quality Commitment
My relationship with Frank’s Kraut is not merely professional; it’s a cherished, lifelong connection deeply embedded in my family history. It all began in my childhood, as Frank’s Kraut was the only brand my German/Polish grandparents ever purchased, a tradition lovingly passed down to my own parents. It became a revered household name, synonymous with quality and tradition in our kitchen.
Fast forward to 2015, when I proudly posted my very first recipe featuring their incredible product: a mouthwatering Reuben Burger. Since then, years have gracefully passed, and I’ve had the joy of creating and sharing a plethora of delicious sauerkraut recipes and innovative Reubenized recipes for you to discover and enjoy, all crafted with my family’s consistently favorite sauerkraut.
I hold the utmost respect for the Frank’s Kraut company, not only for their superior product but also for their unwavering support of local farmers. Every single head of cabbage used in making Frank’s Kraut is meticulously grown and harvested in the fertile fields of Northwest Ohio. The sight of acres upon acres of vibrant green cabbage, swaying gently in the breeze, is truly a sight to behold and a testament to their commitment to quality and local agriculture. To learn more about their farming practices and how Frank’s cultivates the cabbage for their exceptional sauerkraut, I encourage you to visit their informative webpage.
The Ultimate Guide to Sauerkraut: Dive deeper into the world of this amazing fermented food!
LOVE KRAUT LIKE WE DO?
You will discover an abundance of fantastic sauerkraut recipes, ranging from traditional to unexpectedly delightful, at FranksKraut.com. Their site is a treasure trove for kraut enthusiasts!
And don’t forget to connect with them and check out all the exciting content and goodness they share year-round on their engaging social media pages: Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Twitter. Stay updated on new recipes, tips, and everything kraut!
Reuben Style Tortilla Roll-Ups FAQ’s
How do you keep cream cheese pinwheels from getting soggy? This is a common concern with cream cheese-based roll-ups, but thankfully, with flour tortillas, it’s usually not a major issue. Flour tortillas are less absorbent than some other wraps, so they shouldn’t soak up the cream cheese mixture excessively. To further minimize any potential sogginess, ensure your sauerkraut is very well drained before mixing. If you’re particularly worried, you could theoretically place a thin “barrier” like a lettuce leaf or a large spinach leaf between the tortilla and the cream cheese mixture, though this will slightly alter the classic Reuben flavor and texture profile. The best strategy to avoid sogginess is to serve the pinwheels within 24 hours of preparation, as prolonged refrigeration can eventually lead to a softer texture.
Can you make tortilla pinwheels the night before? Absolutely, and in fact, it’s highly recommended! These pinwheels truly benefit from a good chill time. They need to refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to fully meld and the mixture to firm up, making them easier to slice. However, preparing them the night before and letting them chill overnight (for about 24 hours) is even better. The longer chilling period not only enhances the depth of flavor but also makes them significantly easier to slice into neat, perfect pinwheels without squishing the filling. It’s a fantastic make-ahead appetizer for busy hosts!
What is sauerkraut? Sauerkraut is a traditional fermented food, literally translating from German as “sour cabbage.” It consists of finely cut raw cabbage that has been fermented by various lactic acid bacteria. This ancient preservation method is well-known and highly valued in German, Polish, and many other Central and Eastern European cuisines. Its distinctive, pleasantly sour flavor is a direct result of the lactic acid formed during the fermentation process. The bacteria naturally present on the cabbage leaves convert the sugars in the cabbage into lactic acid, which acts as a natural preservative and gives sauerkraut its signature tangy taste and pungent aroma. This process also creates beneficial probiotics, contributing to its renowned health benefits.
SUBSTITUTIONS TO CONSIDER
While the original recipe for Reuben Style Tortilla Roll-Ups is designed for optimal flavor and texture, sometimes substitutions are necessary due to dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are a couple of thoughtful alternatives:
Cream cheese – If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe slightly without compromising too much on creaminess, you can successfully substitute Neufchatel cheese for regular cream cheese. Neufchatel cheese is a French-style cream cheese that typically has about one-third less fat than standard cream cheese, offering a similar tang and texture but with fewer calories. Be aware that some recipes might suggest sour cream; however, using sour cream as a direct substitute will result in a much “wetter” filling that may not hold its shape as well, potentially making the roll-ups harder to slice and prone to falling apart.
Caraway seeds – The caraway seeds are essential for imparting that classic rye bread flavor to the Reuben. If you find yourself without caraway seeds, or if they are difficult to source, a suitable alternative would be fennel seeds. Both caraway and fennel seeds belong to the carrot family and share a similar aromatic profile. Fennel seeds offer a pleasant, slightly licorice-like essence that is reminiscent of caraway. You can use an equal amount of fennel seeds as a direct substitute for caraway seeds in this recipe, and they will still provide a wonderful depth of flavor to your pinwheels.
More Sauerkraut Recipes to Love
If you’ve enjoyed the tangy goodness of sauerkraut in these Reuben-style roll-ups, you’ll be thrilled to discover how versatile this ingredient can be. Here are some more fantastic sauerkraut-infused recipes that bring comforting and exciting flavors to your table, perfect for exploring new ways to enjoy this fermented delight:
- Beef & Kraut Tater Tot Casserole (pictured above): A hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring savory beef, tangy kraut, and crispy tater tots.
- Baked Reuben Pinwheels: A warm, savory version of the classic Reuben, baked to golden perfection.
- Steak & Kraut Pinwheels with Caramelized Onions: An elevated twist with tender steak, sweet caramelized onions, and sharp white cheddar.
- Sauerkraut Cheddar Cheese Sauce with Pretzel Bites: A fun and flavorful appetizer, pairing warm pretzel bites with a rich, tangy cheese sauce.
- Smoked Hot Dogs & Kraut: A classic comfort food combination, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Kapusniak (Polish Sauerkraut Soup): A traditional, hearty Polish soup that is both flavorful and incredibly comforting.
- Reuben Stuffed Baked Potatoes: All the iconic flavors of a Reuben sandwich generously stuffed into a fluffy baked potato.
Whether it’s a bustling tailgate, a casual game day gathering, or an elegant cocktail party, these Reuben-Style Tortilla Roll-ups are the ideal appetizer. They are simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and offer a unique twist that will delight all your guests. You’ll love how easily these make-ahead bites come together, leaving you more time to enjoy the party. Let’s get to the recipe and start creating these memorable pinwheels!
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Print Recipe
Reuben Style Tortilla Roll-Ups
Equipment
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Rubber Spatulas
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Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
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KitchenAid Hand Mixer
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
Ingredients
- 5 – 10- inch tortillas
- 1 – 8 ounce cream cheese softened
- ¼ teaspoon caraway seeds
- ½ pound deli corned beef chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
- 2 green onions sliced
- ½ cup Frank’s Kraut drained and chopped
- 1 – 8 ounce Swiss cheese shredded
Instructions
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With your electric mixer, whip the cream cheese and the caraway seeds together.
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Scrape the bowl, and add in the corned beef, onions, and kraut. Beat together, scraping the bowl once while it mixes.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the flour tortillas, getting it all of the way to the edge of the tortilla. Top with shredded cheese and roll it up.
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Tightly wrap each roll-up in plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Overnight is even better.
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Remove the plastic wrap and slice.
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Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping if desired.