If you're craving all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich without the carbs, these Low Carb Reuben Pickle Bites are about to become your new favorite appetizer.
Giving you that tangy brine of dill pickles, savory corned beef, Swiss cheese, and a low carb Russian dressing all stacked into one no-bake bite, clocking in at just 1g carbs and 80 calories each.
Whether you're prepping for game day, hosting a holiday gathering, or looking for an impressive low-carb snack, these pickle bites deliver authentic Reuben sandwich flavor in a format that actually fits your macros.
If you're loving this low carb Reuben pickle bites recipe, check out my other low-carb appetizer skewers: Low Carb Cuban Sandwich Skewers, Low Carb Charcuterie Skewers, Italian Sub Skewers and Low Carb Caprese Bites. They're all equally impressive and great low carb game day appetizer ideas.
Jump To:
- What are low-carb reuben pickle bites?
- Total carb breakdown for low-carb reuben pickle bites
- Step by step instructions
- How to make low-carb reuben pickle bites?
- Recipe Tips
- Ingredient Swaps
- Serving and Entertaining
- Recipe Variations
- Low sodium Reuben pickle bites
- Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More low carb appetizers
- Recipe Card
What are low-carb reuben pickle bites?
- No bake low carb appetizer recipe using pickles instead of bread.
- Same classic Reuben sandwich flavors made with corned beef, Swiss chees, sauerkraut, and a low-carb Russian dressing sandwiched between two pickles.
- Lower in carbs than a traditional Reuben sandwich, which contains roughly 55g of carbs, versus 1g of carbs per pickle bite.
- Ingredients matter: we made a homemade low-carb Russian dressing with cleaner ingredients with less sugar. This version has 70% less sugar than store-bought.
Total carb breakdown for low-carb reuben pickle bites
Per bite:
- Two pickle slices: about 0.2 g carbs
- Corned beef: 0 g carbs
- Swiss cheese (quarter slice): 0.1 g carbs
- Sauerkraut: about 0.5 g carbs
- Russian dressing: 0.2 g carbs
Total per bite: 1 g carbs
Traditional Reuben sandwich (55g carbs) vs. Low Carb Reuben Sandwich Skewers (1g carbs per bite)
Macro advantage: 80 calories, 7g fat, 4g protein per bite, and surprisingly filling despite the low carb count
Step by step instructions
How to make low-carb reuben pickle bites?
- Step 1: Make the Russian dressing.
- Step 2: Assemble the pickle bites.
STEP 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, onion powder, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
STEP 2: Drain the sauerkraut and pickles, then pat completely dry with paper towels.
On a cutting board, layer a pickle slice, 1 teaspoon sauerkraut, a slice of corned beef or pastrami, Swiss cheese, a dollop of Russian dressing, and top with another pickle slice.
Secure with a toothpick, cocktail spear, or skewer. Repeat until all 20 bites are assembled (takes about 15-20 minutes).
Recipe Tips
- Patting the sauerkraut and pickles dry prevents excess moisture from making your bites soggy.
- Cut corned beef into uniform 1-inch slices for stability and even carb distribution.
- Assemble within 2 hours of serving (sauerkraut juice runs)
- Check the pickle label sugar content and sodium, scan the label for hidden sugars.
- Stack 2 pickle bites for a heartier portion.
Ingredient Swaps
- Pastrami: Swap corned beef for pastrami to create a "Rachel" variation with a smokier flavor profile. Pastrami was used in the images for this recipe.
- Roast Beef: A leaner alternative for those avoiding cured meats.
- Provolone: Bolder flavor for a deeper taste.
- Cheddar: Gives an Americana twist with a sharper cheese flavor.
- Pepper Jack: Adds a little heat and spice.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy swap for the sauerkraut.
Why pickles are the perfect low-carb bread replacement?
- Tangy pickle brine pairs well with corned beef, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut
- Acid cuts through rich cheese and meat
- Fermented pickles add probiotics, great for a healthier gut
- Good carb to fiber ratio that supports digestion
Serving and Entertaining
- Game Day & Tailgate: These bites stay fresh for up to 2 hours at room temperature without refrigeration, perfect for tailgates and watching parties.
- Platter Presentation: Arrange finished bites on a slate, wooden cutting board, or ceramic platter.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve alongside low-carb beverages like sugar-free mixers, and pair with other cold appetizers for a complete spread.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Marinated mushrooms, double cheese, and skip the meat.
- Smoked salmon twist: Non-traditional but a delicious protein swap
- Fried cheese shell cup version: Baked Swiss cheese cups with Reuben filling (alternative container)
Low sodium Reuben pickle bites
- Use low sodium pickles or rinse regular pickle chips under cold water to cut the brine.
- Pick a lower salt corned beef. Deli counters usually offer reduced-sodium versions if you ask. Or make a homemade roast beef and use thinly sliced leftovers.
- Rinse sauerkraut to remove the salt without losing the tang.
- Taste each part before assembling so you control the final salt level.
Storage
- Component storage: Keep dressing, meat, and sauerkraut separately up to 5 days
- Refrigeration: 3-4 days max for assembled bites
- Freezing: NOT recommended (texture breakdown)
- Transport to parties: Keep components cold in an insulated bag; assemble onsite if possible
- Food safety: Keep corned beef at 40°F or below
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, prep components separately and assemble 1-2 hours before serving.
Yes, but check labels carefully for added sugars. It's worth the 5-minute prep to make the homemade low-carb Russian dressing.
Depending on ingredients and brands used, each bite contains roughly 1g of carbs. These pickle bites are low carb and keto-friendly.
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Recipe Card
Low Carb Reuben Pickle Bites
RECIPE VIDEO
Equipment
Ingredients
Russian Dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar free ketchup or no added sugar ketchup
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon horseradish
- ½ teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika
Reuben Pickle Bites
- 40 pickle chips drained and patted dry
- ½ cup sauerkraut drained
- 8 slices corned beef or pastrami
- 5 slices swiss cheese each cut into 4 pieces
Instructions
Russian Dressing
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, onion powder, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
Reuben Pickle Bites
- Drain the sauerkraut and pickle slices. Pat both completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the corned beef into 1-inch strips. Fold or layer the strips onto the bites as needed.
- Place a pickle slice on your work surface as the base.
- Layer in order: sauerkraut, corned beef strip (folded), Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and top with another pickle slice.
- Insert a toothpick, cocktail spear, or skewer through the center to secure all layers. Repeat with remaining ingredients until all 20 bites are assembled.
- Serve and excess dressing as a dip or spread if your guests prefer more with their bites.
Notes
- Assemble within 2-3 hours of serving.
- Store components separately in the fridge up to 5 days.
- Pat sauerkraut and pickles dry to prevent soggy bites.
- Use thicker cheese slices for stability.
Important Information
For more information, tips and variations please review the recipe video and content above and below the recipe card.
Updates and Revisions
If the video and recipe card differ, follow the recipe card for the latest ingredients and instructions.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition info is estimated and varies by ingredients, measurements, and portions.
Nutrition
Food safety
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooked food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more food guidelines
Sheilla says
Made these for a friend’s party. They were a hit. Delicious low carb appetizer. Next time I make them, I will be more generous with the sauce on each piece.
Oscar Chimenti says
Love hearing that. Glad they were a hit at the party. And yes, extra sauce is rarely a bad idea with these. Thanks for trying the recipe and taking the time to leave feedback!
Oscar Chimenti says
These Low Carb Reuben Pickle Bites deliver all the tangy, savory flavor of a classic deli sandwich in one bite.