Reuben Hot Dogs

If you love the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich but want to enjoy them with a fun twist, you’re going to adore Reuben Hot Dogs. This mouthwatering recipe combines tangy sauerkraut, melty cheese, and savory corned beef on a juicy hot dog, bringing all your favorite flavors together on a bun. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your backyard BBQ or just craving a comforting, satisfying meal, these Reuben Hot Dogs are simple to make and packed with flavor that will have you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy sauerkraut, sharp cheese, and spiced corned beef creates an irresistible taste.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together fast, perfect for when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.
• Fun Twist on a Classic: Reuben Hot Dogs reinvent the traditional sandwich into handheld goodness everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your dietary preferences and spice levels.
• Great for Entertaining: They make an eye-catching addition to any party menu that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients to build layers of flavor and texture that make Reuben Hot Dogs so special. Each component plays a key role—from the zingy sauerkraut to the melty cheese, you won’t want to skip a single one.

• Hot Dogs: Use high-quality all-beef or your favorite variety for a juicy, flavorful base.
• Corned Beef: Thinly sliced, this adds that iconic savory flavor reminiscent of a Reuben sandwich.
• Sauerkraut: Tangy and slightly crunchy, sauerkraut brings the classic Reuben zing to the dish.
• Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and balances the sauerkraut’s acidity with creamy richness.
• Rye Hot Dog Buns: For a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the fillings perfectly.
• Thousand Island Dressing: Adds a sweet, tangy creaminess that ties everything together.
• Butter: For toasting the buns to golden perfection and adding a delicious crisp texture.

Variations for Reuben Hot Dogs

Reuben Hot Dogs are incredibly versatile, so feel free to mix things up and make them your own. Whether you want a low-carb option, a spicier version, or a vegetarian-friendly makeover, this recipe adapts well.

• Low-Carb Version: Swap traditional buns for lettuce wraps or keto-friendly bread to reduce carbs.
• Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy mustard for extra heat and flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based hot dogs and tofu or tempeh corned beef substitutes.
• Different Cheeses: Try provolone or cheddar for a twist on the classic Swiss flavor.
• Extra Crunch: Include crispy fried onions for added texture and taste.

How to Make Reuben Hot Dogs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauerkraut

Start by draining the sauerkraut well to prevent soggy buns. For extra flavor, you can warm it in a pan with a bit of butter and black pepper while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Toast the Buns

Butter the rye hot dog buns lightly and toast them on a skillet or griddle until golden brown and crispy. This toasting adds a wonderful crunch and buttery aroma that makes a big difference.

Step 3: Heat the Corned Beef and Hot Dogs

Warm the thinly sliced corned beef in a skillet just until heated through. Grill or pan-fry the hot dogs until sizzling and cooked thoroughly, ensuring juicy bites.

Step 4: Assemble the Reuben Hot Dogs

Place the hot dog in the toasted bun, layer with warm corned beef, a generous scoop of sauerkraut, and top with Swiss cheese so it melts slightly over the hot ingredients.

Step 5: Add Thousand Island Dressing

Drizzle your favorite Thousand Island dressing on top, or serve it on the side for dipping. This adds that perfect creamy and tangy touch that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Reuben Hot Dogs

• Drain Sauerkraut Thoroughly: Excess moisture can make your buns soggy, so give it a good squeeze.
• Use Quality Corned Beef: Thinly sliced deli-style corned beef works best for authentic flavor and texture.
• Toasting is Key: Don’t skip toasting the buns as it adds crucial texture contrast and depth of flavor.
• Cheese Melting Hack: Add cheese while the hot dog and corned beef are still warm to encourage perfect melting.
• Customize the Dressing: Mix mayonnaise with ketchup and a splash of pickle juice to make your own Thousand Island easily at home.

How to Serve Reuben Hot Dogs

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped dill pickles, fresh parsley, or sliced green onions bring a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the hot dog. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of mustard adds that extra flavor punch.

Side Dishes

Classic sides like crispy potato chips, kettle-cooked fries, or a light coleslaw complement Reuben Hot Dogs perfectly. For a healthier option, consider a simple cucumber salad or roasted veggies to keep things fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve Reuben Hot Dogs on a long platter with individual dipping sauces on the side. You can also turn them into sliders for parties by using smaller buns and bite-sized hot dogs, allowing guests to sample a variety of toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Reuben Hot Dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the components separate if possible to preserve texture and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

Wrap leftover hot dogs and corned beef tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer bags for up to one month. It’s best to freeze components separately because sauerkraut and buns don’t freeze well.

Reheating

Reheat the hot dogs and corned beef in a skillet or oven to keep them juicy. Toast buns fresh when reheating to regain their crisp texture, and add sauerkraut and dressing just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular hot dogs instead of beef?

Absolutely! While all-beef hot dogs give a richer flavor, you can use any type you prefer or have on hand, including turkey or vegetarian options.

Is Thousand Island dressing necessary for Reuben Hot Dogs?

It’s traditional and adds a lot of flavor, but if you prefer, you can substitute with Russian dressing, spicy mustard, or even a simple mayo and ketchup mix.

How can I make Reuben Hot Dogs gluten-free?

Swap the rye buns for gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps to enjoy this recipe without gluten.

What’s the best way to melt the cheese?

Place the cheese on the hot dog right after assembling and cover the pan for a few minutes to gently melt the cheese using residual heat.

Can I prepare Reuben Hot Dogs for a party?

Yes! Prepare all ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious for your guests.

Final Thoughts

Reuben Hot Dogs bring together all the fantastic flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in a fun, easy-to-eat package that’s perfect for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, it’s hard to resist its tangy, savory, and melty charm. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy the deliciousness that these Reuben Hot Dogs have to offer! Your taste buds will thank you.

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