Quick Pretzel Bites with Sauerkraut Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is both simple and impressive, making it perfect for parties, game days, or family snacking. The frozen dinner roll shortcut saves time while still giving you that authentic pretzel texture. The sauce is creamy, rich, and elevated by the tang of sauerkraut, offering something different than the usual cheese dip. It’s comfort food with a flavorful twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pretzels:

• 6 frozen dinner rolls
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 10 cups water
• Olive oil
• 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water
• Coarse sea salt

For the Sauerkraut Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/2 cup milk, warmed
• 2 ounces sharp white cheddar, hand-shredded
• 2 ounces cheddar cheese, hand-shredded
• 1 1/4 ounce package sauerkraut, drained and finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• Caraway seeds for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly brush with olive oil.
2. Allow frozen dinner rolls to thaw until soft, then cut each roll into four equal pieces. Roll each into a small ball.
3. Bring 10 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Carefully add the baking soda.
4. Drop pretzel dough balls into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush pretzel bites with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, make the cheese sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
8. Slowly whisk in warmed milk until smooth and thickened.
9. Stir in both types of cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
10. Add the finely chopped sauerkraut and mix well.
11. Serve warm pretzel bites with the cheese sauce, sprinkled with caraway seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 pretzel bites, serving 6 people as an appetizer. Preparation and cooking time takes approximately 35–40 minutes.

Variations

• Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
• Swap sauerkraut with caramelized onions for a sweeter flavor.
• Use different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a unique twist.
• Sprinkle pretzel bites with everything bagel seasoning instead of sea salt for more texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. The cheese sauce should be kept refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat pretzels in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Reheat cheese sauce gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

How do I keep the pretzels soft after baking?

Store them in an airtight container or bag to prevent them from drying out.

Can I make the pretzel dough from scratch instead of using frozen rolls?

Yes, you can use homemade pretzel dough if preferred, but frozen rolls are a great time-saving option.

Can I freeze pretzel bites?

Yes, baked pretzel bites can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Is the baking soda bath necessary?

Yes, boiling the dough in a baking soda bath gives pretzels their signature chewy texture and deep color.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but it may thicken when cooled. Reheat gently with a little milk before serving.

Can I substitute the sauerkraut with another ingredient?

Yes, try chopped jalapeños, caramelized onions, or spinach for a different twist.

What’s the best way to shred cheese for this recipe?

Hand-shred cheese from a block to ensure it melts smoothly without added starches or preservatives.

Can I use gluten-free rolls for this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free rolls will work, though texture may vary slightly.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of hand-shredded?

It’s best to avoid pre-shredded cheese because it often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Do the caraway seeds have to be added?

No, they’re optional but add a nice earthy flavor that pairs well with the sauerkraut.

Conclusion

Quick Pretzel Bites with Sauerkraut Cheddar Cheese Sauce are a fun, delicious, and satisfying snack that combines chewy pretzels with a creamy, tangy dip. Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, or just a cozy evening, they’re sure to be a hit. This recipe is approachable, versatile, and easy to customize, making it one you’ll want to make again and again.

Print