9 Easy Rye Bread Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Written by Sarah in Other's

Cooking with rye bread brings a lovely depth to your meals, especially on busy weeknights. Whether you enjoy it as a side, a sandwich, or even in spectacular salads, rye is savory and satisfying. These easy recipes will not only save time but also add delicious variety to your dining table. Let’s explore some delightful options!

Rye Bread Sliders

Save

Skip the traditional buns and enjoy sliders on rye!

Ingredients:

  • 12 rye slider buns
  • 1 lb deli meats (e.g., turkey, ham)
  • 8 oz cheese slices (e.g., Swiss, cheddar)
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Mustard or mayo (optional)

Process:

  1. Layer the slider buns with deli meats, cheese, and lettuce.
  2. Add mustard or mayo if desired.
  3. Top with the other half of the bun and serve.

Make it Unique:

  • Swap deli meats for grilled veggies for a vegetarian version.
  • Try flavored cream cheese instead of mayo for extra zest.

Rye Bread French Toast

Save

Start your day with a delicious twist on breakfast.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Maple syrup for serving

Process:

  1. Whisk eggs, milk, and cinnamon in a bowl.
  2. Dip each slice of bread in the egg mixture.
  3. Cook on a skillet until golden on both sides. Serve with syrup.

Make it Unique:

  • Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  • Top with nuts or whipped cream for a dessert twist.

Rye Bread Toast with Avocado

Save

A wholesome snack or quick breakfast option.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices rye bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chili flakes, lime juice

Process:

  1. Toast the rye bread slices until golden.
  2. Mash the avocado in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, chili flakes, and lime juice.
  3. Spread the avocado on the toast and serve.

Make it Unique:

  • Add sliced radishes or a poached egg on top for more variety.
  • Try adding fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra flavor.

Rye Bread Meatball Sandwich

Save

Comfort food on a bun!

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread
  • 12 meatballs (cooked)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Process:

  1. Heat meatballs in marinara sauce on the stove.
  2. Toast slices of rye bread lightly.
  3. Fill the bread with meatballs, sauce, and top with cheese. Broil until cheese melts.

Make it Unique:

  • Use BBQ sauce instead of marinara for a BBQ twist.
  • Add sautéed onions and peppers for extra crunch.

Rye Bread Croutons

Save

Perfect for adding crunch to salads or soups.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Make it Unique:

  • Season with garlic powder or Italian herbs for extra flavor.
  • Drizzle with balsamic for a tangy twist.

Rye Bread Salad

Save

A filling side or light main dish.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread, torn
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • Vinaigrette dressing

Process:

  1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumber.
  2. Gently fold in the torn rye bread.
  3. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss to combine.

Make it Unique:

  • Add feta cheese or olives for extra flavor.
  • Include roasted chickpeas for protein.

Rye Bread Pizza

Save

Quick pizza fix!

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Assorted toppings (pepperoni, veggies)

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread pizza sauce on each slice of rye bread.
  3. Top with cheese and desired toppings and bake for 10-15 minutes.

Make it Unique:

  • Use pesto instead of pizza sauce for a different base.
  • Throw on some arugula after baking for a fresh touch.

Rye Bread Breakfast Strata

Save

A comforting dish for any time of day.

Ingredients:

  • 6 slices rye bread, cubed
  • 6 eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
  • Salt and pepper

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Whisk eggs and milk together, then add cubed bread, cheese, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes.

Make it Unique:

  • Add cooked bacon or sausage for extra protein.
  • Incorporate spinach or kale for some greens.

Rye Bread and Hummus Platter

Save

A perfect snack board for everyone!

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf rye bread, sliced
  • 1 cup assorted hummus
  • Veggie sticks (carrots, cucumber, bell pepper)

Process:

  1. Arrange rye bread slices on a plate.
  2. Serve hummus in small bowls alongside the bread.
  3. Add fresh veggie sticks for dipping.

Make it Unique:

  • Try flavored hummus (like roasted red pepper) for variety.
  • Offer a selection of cheeses as accompaniment.

Rye Bread Sandwiches with Tuna Salad

Save

Quick and tasty lunch option.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread
  • 1 can tuna, drained
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • Lettuce leaves, tomato slices

Process:

  1. Mix tuna with mayonnaise in a bowl.
  2. Spread on two slices of rye, adding lettuce and tomato.
  3. Top with remaining bread, cut into quarters.

Make it Unique:

  • Add pickles or capers for an extra zing.
  • Substitute chicken salad for a different flavor.

Rye Bread with Beet and Goat Cheese

Save

A beautiful and flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread
  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 1 cup cooked beets, sliced
  • Chopped walnuts (for garnish)

Process:

  1. Spread goat cheese evenly on toasted rye bread.
  2. Layer with sliced beets and sprinkle with walnuts.
  3. Serve immediately.

Make it Unique:

  • Drizzle with honey for sweetness.
  • Add arugula for a peppery punch.

Rye Bread Fig and Prosciutto Roll-Ups

Save

A delightful appetizer for gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • 8 slices rye bread
  • 8 slices prosciutto
  • 1 cup fresh figs, sliced
  • Balsamic reduction for drizzling

Process:

  1. Lay a slice of prosciutto and fig on each slice of rye bread.
  2. Roll each slice tightly and secure with a toothpick.
  3. Drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving.

Make it Unique:

  • Try adding arugula or goat cheese for extra flavors.
  • Substitute salami for prosciutto for a different taste.

Rye Bread Panzanella

Save

This salad is a delightful way to use leftover bread.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups rye bread cubes
  • 2 cups tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Olive oil and vinegar for dressing

Process:

  1. Toss bread cubes with tomatoes, cucumber, and basil in a large bowl.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, seasoning to taste.
  3. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Make it Unique:

  • Add chickpeas for protein or mozzarella for creaminess.
  • Toss in olives or capers for saltiness.

Rye Bread Dippers for Soup

Save

Great for dipping!

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf rye bread, sliced into strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and garlic powder

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Coat rye strips in olive oil, then season with salt and garlic powder.
  3. Bake until crispy and golden.

Make it Unique:

  • Experiment with different seasonings like paprika or Italian herbs.
  • Serve with different types of soups for variety.

Rye Bread Cheese and Spinach Quiche

Save

A filling dish that works anytime.

Ingredients:

  • 6 slices rye bread, crusts removed
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 cups spinach, wilted
  • 1 cup cheese (cheddar or feta)
  • 1 cup milk

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Press bread into the bottom of a greased pie dish.
  3. Whisk eggs and milk, then add spinach and cheese. Pour mixture over bread and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Make it Unique:

  • Substitute mushrooms or bacon for spinach.
  • Add onions or peppers for more veggie options.

Rye Bread Muffins

Save

Perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups rye flour
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp baking soda

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
  2. Mix all ingredients until combined, then pour into muffin cups.
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Make it Unique:

  • Add nuts or dried fruits for enhanced flavor.
  • Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

Rye Bread Cracker Snacks

Save

Crunchy and satisfying!

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread, thinly sliced
  • Olive oil spray
  • Salt, herbs (optional)

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Brush or spray slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and herbs.
  3. Bake until crisp, about 10-12 minutes.

Make it Unique:

  • Add cheese on top before baking for cheesy crackers.
  • Use different herbs for varied flavors.

Rye Bread and Salmon Canapés

Save

Classy finger food for gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • 8 slices rye bread
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 8 oz smoked salmon
  • Fresh dill for garnishing

Process:

  1. Spread cream cheese on each slice of rye bread.
  2. Place smoked salmon on top.
  3. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

Make it Unique:

  • Add capers for a briny flavor.
  • Try flavored cream cheese (e.g., herb) for extra taste.

Rye Bread Veggie Wraps

Save

A healthy, portable meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread
  • 1 cup assorted veggies (lettuce, bell pepper, cucumber)
  • Hummus or cream cheese for spreading

Process:

  1. Spread hummus or cream cheese over each slice of rye bread.
  2. Layer veggies, then roll tightly.
  3. Slice into pinwheels for easy serving.

Make it Unique:

  • Add grilled chicken or turkey for a protein boost.
  • Include sprouts or avocado for extra texture.

Rye Bread Smoothie Bowl

Save

A creative breakfast idea!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 banana
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • Rye bread strips for dipping

Process:

  1. Blend spinach, banana, and almond milk until smooth.
  2. Pour into a bowl and arrange rye bread strips around the edge for dipping.

Make it Unique:

  • Add protein powder or yogurt for a creamy texture.
  • Throw in berries for added flavor and color.

Rye Bread Tostadas

Save

A twist on a classic favorite!

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread, toasted and cut into rounds
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Salsa for topping

Process:

  1. Spread refried beans evenly on each rye round.
  2. Top with avocado slices and salsa.
  3. Serve immediately for a fresh snack.

Make it Unique:

  • Use guacamole instead of sliced avocado for creaminess.
  • Add crumbled cheese on top for an extra flavor boost.

Rye Bread Chorizo Stuffed Peppers

Save

A hearty meal in one!

Ingredients:

  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 lb chorizo sausage, cooked
  • 2 cups rye bread cubes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese

Process:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix cooked chorizo and rye bread together.
  3. Stuff the mixture into each pepper half, top with cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Make it Unique:

  • Experiment with different types of sausage for flavor.
  • Use quinoa instead of bread for a gluten-free option.

Rye Bread Fruit and Nut Snack

Save

A simple yet satisfying treat!

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rye bread
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • Assorted fruits (berries, kiwi slices)
  • Nuts (almonds, walnuts)

Process:

  1. Spread ricotta cheese evenly over each slice of rye bread.
  2. Top with assorted fruits and sprinkle with nuts.
  3. Serve immediately for a refreshing snack.

Make it Unique:

  • Drizzle with honey or agave for natural sweetness.
  • Incorporate chia or flax seeds for added nutrition.

Rye Bread Soup Bowls

Save

Perfect for serving your favorite soups.

Ingredients:

  • 2 round rye bread loaves
  • 4 cups of your favorite soup
  • Fresh herbs for garnish

Process:

  1. Hollow out the rye bread loaves to create bowls.
  2. Fill each with hot soup, garnish, and serve.
  3. Enjoy the bread as you finish your soup!

Make it Unique:

  • Add cheese to soup for a richer flavor.
  • Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Rye Bread Energy Bites

Save

A quick energy snack!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rye flour
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup chopped dried fruit

Process:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until combined.
  2. Roll into small bite-sized balls.
  3. Chill in the fridge before serving.

Make it Unique:

  • Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
  • Use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different taste.

With these 9 easy rye bread recipes, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re looking for quick meals or elegant appetizers. Dive in and try one or experiment with them all throughout your week; your taste buds will surely appreciate it! Enjoy the warmth and flavor that homemade rye brings to your busy weeknights.

Recent Posts