Reuben Pinwheel Recipe Perfect for Easy Party Snacks

Updated On: October 15, 2025

If you’re on the hunt for a fun, flavorful appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress at your next gathering, look no further than these delicious Reuben Pinwheels. Combining the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich — tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty Russian dressing — all wrapped up in a soft tortilla, these pinwheels are as visually appealing as they are tasty.

Perfect for parties, game days, or even a satisfying lunch, they’re easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time. Plus, their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for sharing and snacking without the mess of a traditional sandwich.

Whether you’re a fan of deli classics or looking to add a new twist to your appetizer rotation, these Reuben Pinwheels bring that iconic sandwich flavor into a convenient, finger-friendly format. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and seriously scrumptious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Reuben Pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, they combine all the irresistible flavors of the beloved Reuben sandwich but in a neat, easy-to-eat presentation that’s perfect for parties and casual get-togethers.

They’re incredibly versatile and customizable, letting you swap ingredients to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, they require minimal cooking skills — no grilling or heavy prep needed.

Just assemble, roll, slice, and serve!

These pinwheels also travel well, making them ideal for potlucks or packed lunches. And because they’re portion-controlled, you can enjoy them guilt-free or share as many as you want without leftovers going to waste.

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size works best)
  • 8 oz thinly sliced corned beef or pastrami
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, well drained
  • 4 oz Swiss cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
  • 1/2 cup Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for warming tortillas)

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl (for sauerkraut draining if needed)
  • Spreading knife or spatula
  • Serving platter or plate
  • Paper towels (for draining sauerkraut)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauerkraut: Place the sauerkraut in a fine mesh strainer or paper towel-lined bowl and press gently to remove excess moisture. This step ensures your pinwheels don’t get soggy.
  2. Warm the tortillas: Lightly butter a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 20 seconds per side until pliable. This makes rolling easier and prevents cracking.
  3. Spread the dressing: Lay one tortilla flat on your work surface. Using a spreading knife, evenly coat the entire surface with about 2 tablespoons of Russian dressing. This adds moisture and tangy flavor.
  4. Add the cheese: Place a layer of Swiss cheese slices evenly over the dressing, covering the tortilla but leaving a small margin at the edges.
  5. Layer the meat and sauerkraut: Top the cheese with a generous layer of thinly sliced corned beef or pastrami, followed by a sprinkling of the well-drained sauerkraut.
  6. Roll it up: Starting at one edge, carefully and tightly roll the tortilla into a log shape, keeping the filling snug inside. Repeat with remaining tortillas and ingredients.
  7. Chill the rolls: Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up — this will make slicing easier.
  8. Slice into pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick rounds. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter, cut side up.
  9. Serve and enjoy: These pinwheels are best served chilled or at room temperature. For a warm option, briefly toast them in a skillet or oven until cheese melts.

Tips & Variations

For the best texture, make sure to drain the sauerkraut well before assembling. Excess moisture can make the tortillas soggy.

Try swapping the corned beef with pastrami, smoked turkey, or even vegetarian deli slices for a twist on the classic.

If you want a bit of extra crunch, add some thinly sliced dill pickles or a handful of shredded lettuce inside before rolling.

To make these pinwheels vegetarian-friendly, replace the meat with marinated tempeh or smoked tofu and use a plant-based Swiss-style cheese. For a vegan twist, check out recipes like Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for creative ideas on substitutions.

For a variation in bread, try using spinach or tomato tortillas for a colorful presentation. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as a spicy chipotle mayo or a creamy horseradish sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (2 pinwheels)
Calories 280
Protein 15g
Fat 14g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 2g
Sodium 600mg
Sugar 3g

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Serving Suggestions

Reuben Pinwheels are perfect as finger food alongside a variety of dips such as extra Russian dressing, mustard, or even a creamy horseradish sauce. Pair them with crunchy pickles, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad for a balanced bite.

For a heartier meal, serve these pinwheels with a bowl of soup — consider trying the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or the Awesome Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Comfort Meals.

They also make wonderful additions to picnic baskets or lunchboxes.

Conclusion

Reuben Pinwheels are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in an easy-to-handle, appetizing form. They’re quick to assemble, customizable, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty snack, these pinwheels are guaranteed to satisfy.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with fillings and dressings to make them your own. And if you’re interested in more easy and delicious recipes, be sure to check out other fantastic ideas like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the fresh and vibrant Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Enjoy making and sharing these tasty pinwheels — a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

📖 Recipe Card: Reuben Pinwheel Recipe

Description: These Reuben pinwheels are a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for parties or snacks. They combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing rolled in a tortilla.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 12 pinwheels

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 8 oz sliced corned beef
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese
  • 1/2 cup Russian dressing
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Lay tortillas flat and spread 2 tablespoons of Russian dressing evenly on each.
  2. Layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese over the dressing on each tortilla.
  3. Distribute corned beef evenly over the cheese.
  4. Top with sauerkraut, spreading evenly.
  5. Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape.
  6. Brush the outside of each roll with melted butter.
  7. Slice each roll into 3 pinwheels, about 1.5 inches thick.
  8. Place pinwheels cut side down on a baking sheet.
  9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
  10. Serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 12g

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Marta K

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