Hot Reuben Roll Ups Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe is designed for 4 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 4 flour tortillas
• 10 slices Swiss cheese
• 3/4 cup well-drained sauerkraut
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 3/4 pound thinly sliced corned beef
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Place the tortillas on a clean work surface. Lay 2 to 3 slices of Swiss cheese across the bottom third of each tortilla.
2. Evenly distribute the sauerkraut over the cheese. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut.
3. Layer the corned beef evenly on top. Starting from the bottom, roll each tortilla tightly into a wrap.
4. In a large skillet or grill pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Working in batches if needed, place the wraps seam-side down in the pan.
5. Cook until the wraps are golden brown and toasted on the bottom, then flip and toast all sides until the cheese has fully melted.
6. Remove from the pan and cut each wrap into 3 portions. Serve warm with additional dressing if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 1142
• Total Fat: 65g (83% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 26g (130% DV)
• Cholesterol: 172mg (57% DV)
• Sodium: 2242mg (97% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 89g (32% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 6g (22% DV)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 48g (96% DV)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (6% DV)
• Calcium: 705mg (54% DV)
• Iron: 7mg (41% DV)
• Potassium: 462mg (10% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data; some values may not be available. Consult a doctor or registered dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind Hot Reuben Roll Ups

The Hot Reuben Roll Ups trace their roots back to the classic Reuben sandwich, which emerged in the early 20th century. While the exact origin of the Reuben is debated, it is commonly attributed to either Omaha, Nebraska, or New York City. Traditionally, the Reuben consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing served on rye bread. The roll-up version transforms this beloved sandwich into a handheld, tortilla-based snack, making it more convenient for modern lifestyles and quick meals.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

Though Hot Reuben Roll Ups are widely recognized in the United States, they carry subtle regional distinctions. In the Midwest, where corned beef is a staple, the filling is often hearty and generously portioned. Coastal cities sometimes experiment with additional ingredients like pickles, caramelized onions, or even spicy mustard to complement the classic flavor profile. The use of flour tortillas rather than rye bread is a modern twist that enhances portability and creates a crisp, golden exterior when pan-toasted.

How They Differ From Similar Dishes

Unlike a standard Reuben sandwich, these roll-ups are more compact and versatile. The tortilla allows the ingredients to meld together during toasting, creating a uniform bite of melted cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and savory corned beef. Compared to other roll-ups or wraps, the Hot Reuben Roll Ups maintain the distinct flavor combination of the original Reuben while introducing a crunch and warmth that sets them apart from cold deli wraps or simple cheese rolls.

Typical Occasions and Serving Styles

Hot Reuben Roll Ups are commonly served as appetizers, lunch items, or light dinners. They are particularly popular at casual gatherings, game-day parties, and family potlucks due to their ease of preparation and handheld convenience. Restaurants that focus on comfort food or American classics often include them on their menu, sometimes accompanied by extra Thousand Island dressing or a side of pickles for dipping.

Interesting Facts About Hot Reuben Roll Ups

• The roll-up format was likely inspired by the rise of tortilla wraps in American cuisine, which gained popularity in the late 20th century.
• Though the classic Reuben is associated with rye bread, the tortilla adaptation allows for a faster cooking process and an evenly melted interior.
• These roll-ups are sometimes considered a lighter or more convenient alternative to the traditional sandwich, though the caloric content remains rich due to cheese, corned beef, and dressing.
• Some chefs recommend pressing the roll-ups in a skillet or panini press to create extra crispiness, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• The dish can easily be customized with variations in cheese types, such as cheddar or provolone, to suit personal taste while preserving the Reuben identity.

FAQ about Hot Reuben Roll Ups Recipe

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