Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Nothing beats the comfort and nostalgia of a perfectly grilled Reuben sandwich. This classic deli favorite brings together layers of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and rich Russian dressing all hugged by crispy, buttery rye bread. If you are on the hunt for a standout sandwich that balances bold flavors with satisfying textures, this Reuben Sandwich Recipe is the one to master and savor time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Reuben Sandwich Recipe lies in its simplicity, where each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s the zingy sauerkraut or the creamy dressing, all coming together to create an unforgettable bite. Gathering these staples means you’re just moments away from a delicious homemade deli experience.
- 8 slices rye bread: The sturdy, flavorful foundation that crisps up beautifully when grilled.
- 1/2 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing: Adds a creamy, tangy richness that ties all the ingredients together.
- 8 slices Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly to create that gooey, luscious texture inside the sandwich.
- 1 pound corned beef (thinly sliced): The hearty, savory star ingredient packed with traditional deli flavor.
- 1 cup sauerkraut (drained and squeezed dry): Brings a bright, tangy acidity that cuts through the richness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Ensures that golden, crunchy crust we all love on the outside.
How to Make Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Dressing
Start by laying out all eight slices of rye bread on a clean surface. Spread your chosen Russian or Thousand Island dressing evenly over one side of each slice. This step infuses the bread with creamy tang, adding moisture and depth to every bite.
Step 2: Layer the Sandwich Fillings
On four of the bread slices, build your delicious stack by first adding one slice of Swiss cheese. Next, pile on a generous portion of thinly sliced corned beef followed by about a quarter cup of drained sauerkraut, and then top it off with another slice of Swiss cheese. These layers create the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place the remaining four slices of bread on top, dressing side down, to complete the sandwich. This seals the fillings inside the sandwich layers and readies them for grilling.
Step 4: Butter and Grill
Spread softened butter over the exterior sides of each sandwich. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat, and cook each sandwich for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press down gently to help the cheese melt and the sandwich crisp up to a stunning golden brown. This grilling step is where all the flavors harmonize wonderfully.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once grilled to perfection, slice the sandwiches in half and serve hot. The melty cheese combined with the hearty corned beef and tangy sauerkraut makes every bite extraordinary.
How to Serve Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A classic Reuben sandwich is often paired with crisp dill pickles to cut through the richness and add an extra layer of crunch. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a side of coleslaw also complements this sandwich beautifully, giving it a fresh, vibrant touch.
Side Dishes
The perfect Reuben meal is incomplete without the right sides. Consider serving it alongside kettle-cooked potato chips, crispy French fries, or even a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the sandwich. These sides add texture and variety, turning a simple meal into a full culinary experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, cut the Reuben Sandwich Recipe into smaller, manageable finger sandwiches served on a wooden board with an assortment of pickles and mustard on the side. You can even toast the sandwiches as sliders for a fun twist that’s perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Reuben sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days and make for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
While Reuben sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Wrap each sandwich individually in freezer-safe wrap and store in an airtight container or bag. Freeze for up to one month, keeping in mind that the texture of the sauerkraut might change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat your Reuben sandwich, the best method is to use a skillet over low heat to slowly warm the sandwich and crisp the bread again without drying out the interior. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese less melty.
FAQs
Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Absolutely! Pastrami is a delicious variation that adds a smoky, peppery flavor to the Reuben while keeping the classic texture and heartiness.
What can I do to prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain and squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the sauerkraut before layering it in the sandwich. Also, spreading butter on the outside of the bread creates a moisture barrier that helps keep the bread crispy.
Is Russian dressing different from Thousand Island?
They are similar but not identical; Russian dressing is tangier and less sweet compared to Thousand Island. Either works well, so use whichever suits your taste or what you have on hand.
Can I make this Reuben sandwich vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the corned beef with grilled mushrooms or a meatless deli slice, and keep the cheese and sauerkraut for that signature tangy, creamy flavor.
How do I get the cheese perfectly melted?
Grilling the sandwich over medium heat and pressing down gently allows the cheese to melt slowly without burning the bread, creating that delicious gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
This Reuben Sandwich Recipe is a true gem to keep in your recipe collection for those days when you crave something deeply satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether you stick to the classic corned beef or get creative with variations, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. So go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite sandwich to make again and again.
Print
Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Description
This classic Reuben Sandwich features layers of thinly sliced corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all sandwiched between rye bread spread with Russian or Thousand Island dressing. Grilled to perfection on a skillet, it’s golden, melty, and packed with deli-style flavors that make it a beloved American main course.
Ingredients
Bread & Spread
- 8 slices rye bread
- 1/2 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
Sandwich Filling
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
For Grilling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Prepare Bread and Spread: Lay out the rye bread slices on a clean surface. Spread Russian or Thousand Island dressing evenly on each slice of bread to add moisture and flavor.
- Assemble Sandwiches: On four of the bread slices, layer one slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a generous amount of thinly sliced corned beef, approximately 1/4 cup of well-drained sauerkraut, and top with another slice of Swiss cheese. These layers add rich, savory, and tangy flavors.
- Form Sandwiches: Place the remaining four bread slices atop the fillings, dressing side down, to complete each sandwich.
- Butter the Bread: Spread softened unsalted butter on the outside of each sandwich, coating both the top and bottom slices. This helps achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust while grilling.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat until hot enough for grilling the sandwiches.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches on the skillet and grill for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Press slightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking and melting of the cheese. Grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has fully melted.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from the skillet, slice each in half, and serve hot for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Substitute pastrami for corned beef to create a flavorful variation.
- To avoid soggy sandwiches, ensure sauerkraut is thoroughly drained and squeezed dry before assembling.
- Serve with classic deli sides such as pickles and potato chips for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
