Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Reuben sandwich has long been a beloved choice for sandwich lovers due to its rich combination of flavors and textures. The salty corned beef and smooth Swiss cheese are a perfect match, while the tangy sauerkraut adds a delightful crunch and a bit of bite. The dressing, whether you choose Russian or Thousand Island, pulls everything together into one mouthwatering sandwich that’s perfectly toasted and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, the Reuben is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

2 slices rye bread
2 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
1 oz Swiss cheese, sliced
1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained
1-2 tablespoons Russian or Thousand Island dressing
Butter, for grilling

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

Directions

Begin by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread.
On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread a tablespoon of Russian or Thousand Island dressing.
Layer the corned beef slices on top of the dressing, followed by the Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.
Spread a little more dressing on the unbuttered side of the second slice of bread, then place it dressing side down on top of the sandwich.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom slice is golden and crispy.
Flip the sandwich and grill for another 3-4 minutes, pressing down slightly to ensure the cheese melts and the sandwich is evenly toasted.
Remove from the skillet, cut in half, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1 sandwich
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes

Variations

Turkey Reuben: Swap out the corned beef for sliced turkey for a lighter twist on the classic.
Vegetarian Reuben: Use grilled portobello mushrooms in place of the meat and skip the sauerkraut for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Gluten-Free Reuben: Use gluten-free bread for those avoiding gluten, ensuring the rest of the ingredients are also gluten-free.
Spicy Reuben: Add a slice of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Pastrami Reuben: Replace corned beef with pastrami for a slightly different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 1-2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, pressing it down slightly, and heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy. You can also wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make a Reuben sandwich ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can assemble the sandwich ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours before grilling. This will allow the flavors to meld a bit more.

Can I use a different kind of bread for a Reuben?

Yes! While rye bread is traditional, you can experiment with other hearty bread options like sourdough or whole wheat, depending on your preference.

What kind of cheese can I use in a Reuben sandwich?

Swiss cheese is the most traditional choice, but you can substitute it with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or mozzarella if you prefer.

Can I make the dressing from scratch?

Yes! You can easily make homemade Russian or Thousand Island dressing with mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and a few seasonings.

How do I know when the sandwich is done grilling?

The sandwich is ready when both sides are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has fully melted. You can also press down lightly with a spatula to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I use a different meat in a Reuben sandwich?

Absolutely! Pastrami is a great alternative to corned beef, and turkey or chicken can also be used for a lighter option.

What is the difference between a Reuben sandwich and a Rachel sandwich?

A Rachel sandwich is similar to a Reuben but swaps the corned beef for turkey and may use coleslaw instead of sauerkraut.

Can I use sauerkraut from a jar?

Yes, store-bought jarred sauerkraut works perfectly well for a Reuben sandwich. Just make sure to drain it well before using.

How do I avoid the sandwich getting soggy?

Be sure to drain the sauerkraut well, and avoid overloading the sandwich with dressing. Use a sturdy rye bread that can hold up to the filling without becoming soggy.

Can I make the Reuben sandwich in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the sandwich at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Conclusion

The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a comforting snack, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With its crispy, golden bread, savory corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, it’s a sandwich that hits all the right notes. Try it today, and you’ll see why it’s been a favorite for generations.

Reuben Sandwich

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The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli favorite, combining savory corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian or Thousand Island dressing, all grilled to perfection between slices of hearty rye bread.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Yield: 1 sandwich
Category: Lunch
Method: Grill
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

2 slices rye bread

2 oz corned beef, thinly sliced

1 oz Swiss cheese, sliced

1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained

1–2 tablespoons Russian or Thousand Island dressing

Butter, for grilling

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Instructions

Begin by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread.
On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread a tablespoon of Russian or Thousand Island dressing.
Layer the corned beef slices on top of the dressing, followed by the Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.
Spread a little more dressing on the unbuttered side of the second slice of bread, then place it dressing side down on top of the sandwich.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom slice is golden and crispy.
Flip the sandwich and grill for another 3-4 minutes, pressing down slightly to ensure the cheese melts and the sandwich is evenly toasted.
Remove from the skillet, cut in half, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a lighter twist, swap the corned beef with turkey or use grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
If you’re looking for a spicy variation, add a slice of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce to your sandwich.
Experiment with different breads like sourdough or whole wheat for unique flavor combinations.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 550
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1200mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg