Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups are a satisfying, low-carb spin on the classic deli sandwich that deliver all the tang, gooey cheese, and crunch you love without the bread. If you’re craving something savory and handheld for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these roll-ups are fast to assemble and bake into a golden, crispy bite. Serve them alongside a simple salad or some crispy creamy potatoes for a comforting meal that stays keto-friendly.
why make this recipe
There are lots of reasons to try Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups. First, they capture the iconic Reuben flavors—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and mustard—without carbs from rye bread. That makes them perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle, low-carb plan, or simply cutting back on grains. Second, they’re quick to prepare: most of the work is assembly, and a short bake finishes things off with a satisfying crisp.
This recipe is also versatile. The roll-ups are easy to scale up for parties, can be made ahead and reheated, and adapt well if you need lower sodium ingredients or a dairy-free option. Finally, the textural play—creamy inside, crispy outside—makes every bite interesting. These roll-ups feel indulgent but remain simple to put together, which is precisely why they become a fast favorite in many households.
how to make Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups
This how-to section walks through each step with little tips so the roll-ups come out reliably crispy and flavorful. The main idea: a creamy mustard base, sauerkraut for tang, corned beef as the wrapper, and a Swiss cheese crust formed in the skillet and baked to finish.
- Prepare your workspace: drain the sauerkraut well and pat it dryer than you think. Excess moisture will make the roll-ups soggy.
- Mix the cream cheese and Dijon until perfectly smooth—this binds the sauerkraut and gives a creamy interior.
- Lay the corned beef slices flat and spread the cream cheese mixture. Add sauerkraut, roll tightly, and chill briefly if you have time. Chilling helps the roll-ups retain shape when you pan-sear them with the cheese.
- In a skillet, melt a thin layer of Swiss cheese to form a set crust, then roll the corned beef logs in the warm cheese so they pick up a crispy, golden exterior once baked.
- Finish in a hot oven for a few minutes so the cheese crisps evenly and the interior warms through.
These steps keep the assembly simple and the final result crunchy on the outside while warm and melty inside. For best results, follow the directions and the pro tips later in the article.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces corned beef slices
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Ingredient notes and substitutions:
- Corned beef slices: Look for thinly sliced corned beef at the deli counter or pre-sliced packages. If you prefer a lighter option, smoked turkey slices work well as a substitute and still give a savory base.
- Sauerkraut: Drain thoroughly and squeeze out excess liquid. If you want less tang, rinse lightly and drain again before using.
- Swiss cheese: Gruyère or a mild provolone will also melt nicely and crisp up. For a dairy-free option, use a firm plant-based melting cheese, though texture will differ.
- Cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture. For a lower-fat approach, a soft goat cheese can be used but will change flavor profile.
- Dijon mustard: Adds tang and sharpness. Substitute whole-grain mustard if you want a little texture.
- Olive oil: Helps melt the cheese in the skillet and prevents sticking. Use avocado oil if you prefer a neutral flavor.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Lay out corned beef slices flat and spread the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Place sauerkraut over the cream cheese layer.
- Roll up the corned beef tightly.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Place shredded Swiss cheese in the skillet to melt slightly, then roll the corned beef roll-ups in the melted cheese.
- Place the roll-ups on a baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes until cheese is crispy.
- Serve with extra mustard if desired.
Pro Tips for Success Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups
- Drain and dry the sauerkraut thoroughly: Use a fine sieve and press out liquid with the back of a spoon or paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Chill briefly before searing: After rolling, pop the rolls into the fridge for 10–15 minutes. Chilled rolls hold their shape better when you coat them in hot cheese.
- Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned pan: Melting cheese can stick and burn quickly. A nonstick surface makes it easier to form that crisp cheese layer without losing pieces.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Melt the cheese in small batches so each roll-up gets a proper cheese blanket and crisp crust.
- Monitor the oven time: Ovens vary—start checking at 8 minutes to prevent over-browning. You want a golden, not charred, finish.
- For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end: If the cheese hasn’t crisped as much as you’d like, a short broil will finish it off—watch carefully.
Flavor Variations Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups
- Spicy Reuben: Mix a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cream cheese for a kick. This adds warmth without overwhelming the classic flavors.
- Everything Bagel Twist: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the melted cheese in the skillet before rolling the meats. The savory seeds and garlic provide a crunchy, aromatic crust.
- Veggie-Forward: Add a thin layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions inside with the sauerkraut to introduce an earthy, sweet element that complements the corned beef.
- Mustardy Herb: Stir chopped fresh dill or chives into the cream cheese for a fresher, herby note that pairs exceptionally well with sauerkraut and Swiss.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium corned beef or smoked turkey and rinse the sauerkraut to reduce overall salt while keeping much of the flavor.
Serving Suggestions Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups
- Appetizer platter: Slice each roll-up into 1–1.5 inch pieces, arrange on a platter with toothpicks, and offer whole-grain or Dijon mustard on the side for dipping.
- Weeknight dinner: Serve two roll-ups per person with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette and roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced plate.
- Party sandwich board: Add pickles, olives, grainy mustard, and a bowl of coleslaw. The roll-ups pair nicely as a low-carb centerpiece among more traditional snacks.
- Soup pairing: Serve with a bowl of creamy, low-carb cauliflower soup for a cozy combination that keeps carbs in check.
- Brunch idea: Offer alongside scrambled eggs or a simple frittata. The tangy, cheesy roll-ups add a savory contrast to egg dishes.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups
Short-term storage:
- Refrigeration: Let roll-ups cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: For best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven on a baking sheet for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is crisp again. A toaster oven works well for individual portions.
Freezing:
- To freeze pre-baked: Wrap each roll-up tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven, covered for the first 10 minutes, then uncovered to re-crisp for about 15–20 minutes total.
- To freeze unbaked: Roll and wrap tightly in plastic, then freeze on a baking sheet until solid and transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the skillet cheese step and bake as directed.
- Thawing tip: For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge rather than microwaving, which can make sauerkraut soggy and compromise crispness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Estimated per roll-up (recipe yields about 4 roll-ups; one roll-up per serving):
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
Nutrition notes:
- These estimates are approximate; actual values vary by brand of corned beef, cheese, and sauerkraut.
- To lower sodium, choose low-sodium corned beef and rinsed sauerkraut.
- If you need to reduce fat, swap part of the cream cheese for a lower-fat spread, keeping in mind this may change texture and richness.
FAQ About Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups
Are Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups suitable for a strict ketogenic diet?
Yes, when prepared as written, these roll-ups are keto-friendly because they contain minimal carbohydrates—primarily from the sauerkraut. The recipe relies on high-fat and moderate-protein ingredients such as cream cheese and Swiss cheese, which fit well within typical ketogenic macronutrient ratios. If you track calories closely, adjust portion size and ingredients to match your personal macro targets. Also be mindful of store-bought corned beef and sauerkraut for any added sugars or starchy fillers.
Can I make these dairy-free or vegan?
You can adapt the roll-ups to be dairy-free, but expect changes in flavor and texture. Replace cream cheese with a smooth, firm nut-based cheese or a thick cashew cream, and choose a plant-based melting cheese that crisps. For a fully vegan version, replace corned beef with marinated, thinly sliced seitan or smoked tempeh and use vegan sauerkraut if available. Results will differ from the original, but the core concept—tangy filling wrapped and crisped—remains enjoyable.
What is the best way to pack these for a party or potluck?
For easy transport, bake the roll-ups on a foil-lined baking sheet, then transfer to an insulated carrier to keep warm. You can also bake ahead and reheat briefly upon arrival in an oven. If you need to serve cold or at room temperature, chill and slice them into bite-sized rounds, then offer toothpicks and mustard on the side. Keep sauces separate to avoid sogginess until serving.
Can I make these ahead of time for quick weeknight meals?
Absolutely. You can assemble the roll-ups and keep them chilled for up to 24 hours before melting the cheese and baking. For even more convenience, make a double batch and freeze individual, unbaked roll-ups; thaw overnight and finish them in the skillet and oven on busy nights. Prepping saves time while allowing you to enjoy fresh-crisped texture at serving time.
My cheese sticks to the pan when I try to form a crust—how do I prevent that?
Use a quality nonstick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan and moderate heat. Heat the pan over medium rather than high so the cheese melts evenly and releases. Add a small amount of olive oil to create a thin barrier. If cheese still sticks, allow it to crisp fully and loosen gently with a silicone spatula once it begins to lift; the melted cheese will typically release once it forms a stable crust.
How can I reduce the sodium without losing flavor?
Choose low-sodium corned beef or substitute with smoked turkey slices. Rinse or briefly soak sauerkraut to remove some brine. Boost other flavors with fresh herbs like dill or chives, lemon zest, and a touch of smoked paprika to maintain depth without extra salt. Also, use quality Dijon mustard for tang and brightness that distracts from lower salt levels.
Final Thoughts
Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups are a warm, crave-worthy way to enjoy classic Reuben flavors in a low-carb format. They’re flexible for weeknights, friends-and-family gatherings, or meal prep, and the quick assembly makes them approachable for cooks of every skill level. With a few smart swaps or additions—listed in the flavor variations and ingredient notes—you can tailor them to dietary needs or personal taste. Try making a batch this week for a comforting snack or main course that proves keto can be both indulgent and sensible.
Print
Keto Crispy Reuben Roll-Ups
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Ketogenic
Description
A low-carb twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, these roll-ups are filled with corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a creamy mustard base, baked to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces corned beef slices
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Lay out corned beef slices flat and spread the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Place sauerkraut over the cream cheese layer.
- Roll up the corned beef tightly.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Place shredded Swiss cheese in the skillet to melt slightly, then roll the corned beef roll-ups in the melted cheese.
- Place the roll-ups on a baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes until cheese is crispy.
- Serve with extra mustard if desired.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, use a firm plant-based cheese. Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American