Rye Bread Appetizers
A savory rye bread appetizer topped with a creamy mixture of dried beef, cheese, horseradish, and mayo, garnished with black olives—perfect for parties and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together horseradish sauce, mayonnaise, grated cheese, and dried beef in a bowl.
- Place slices of rye bread on a baking sheet.
- Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture evenly on top of each bread slice.
- Top each with black olive slices.
- Broil at 300°F until bubbly and golden, about 2-5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese instead of mayonnaise, or add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. If dried beef is unavailable, chopped cooked bacon can be a great substitute. For a vegetarian option, replace beef with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Ensure cheese is shredded finely for even melting during broiling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these appetizers warm, straight from the broiler, for the best texture. They pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of pickles for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Hot Corned-Beef Barbecues for a hearty gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rye Bread Appetizers contains roughly 224 calories, with 10g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese and beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the appetizers on the rye bread just before broiling to ensure they are fresh and warm when served.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A blend of cheeses works best, such as sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for meltiness. You can also experiment with Swiss or Gouda for a unique twist on these appetizers.
Can I use fresh beef instead of dried beef?
Fresh beef is not recommended for this recipe as it needs to be cooked and dried for the right texture and flavor. Stick with dried beef or try a vegetarian substitute for a similar taste without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).