Ready to dive into a deli classic? The Reuben Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. It’s a warm, gooey creation stacked with tender corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing, all tucked between two slices of crispy grilled rye bread. Think of it as a big version of your favorite grilled cheese sandwich—only better. Whether you’re indulging on a chilly day or trying to replicate your favorite diner meal at home, this sandwich has an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures that’ll keep everyone coming back for more!
Table of content
- About The Recipe
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- How to Make the Recipe(Step-by-Step)
- Expert Tips for Success
- Variations and Customizations
- Nutritional Information
- Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Recipe Card
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Comments & Reviews
- Social Sharing Options
About The Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Have you ever had a sandwich that feels like a warm hug? That’s what a Reuben Sandwich is all about. This deli classic traces its roots back to New York City, where hearty sandwiches loaded with meat and cheese became essential staples in bustling communities. Legend has it, the Reuben was first created at a poker game, combining just a handful of ingredients to make something truly unforgettable. The beauty of this sandwich lies in its layers—savory corned beef, gooey Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and the sweet-and-zesty kick of Russian dressing, all hugged between slices of crispy, buttered rye bread. The flavors are bold, balanced, and comforting, making it a favorite for anyone who loves a mix of textures and tastes in every bite. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a long-time Reuben fan or trying it out for the first time, this recipe delivers that same deli magic, right from your stovetop.Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic deli flavors you can recreate in your kitchen
- Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner
- Customizable with fun swaps and variations
- An easy recipe for beginners and experts alike
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- Every ingredient contributes to bold, unique flavors
- Grilled bread gives it an unbeatable crunch
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Corned Beef: Thick slices of deli-style corned beef give this sandwich its signature heartiness. Can’t find corned beef? Try pastrami for a slightly spicier twist!
- Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor. If you’re not a fan, provolone or mozzarella are solid choices too!
- Sauerkraut: Adds tang and crunch. If you’re not into sauerkraut, sautéed cabbage or pickled onions can act as a milder alternative.
- Russian Dressing: A creamy, tangy condiment that ties it all together. Thousand Island dressing can work as a stand-in, or mix up your own with mayo, ketchup, and relish.
- Rye Bread: The sturdy, hearty base that holds everything together. No rye? Whole grain or sourdough bread will do nicely.
How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- Heat a skillet over medium heat to get things started. A non-stick pan keeps cleanup super easy!
- Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. The butter helps give the bread that golden, crispy texture.
- On the non-buttered side, layer corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut. Then spread a generous amount of Russian dressing on the second slice of bread. Place it on top, buttered side out.
- Place your sandwich in the preheated skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to get that cheese melting perfectly.
- Once the bread is golden and the cheese is melty, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Let it cool for about a minute before slicing and serving—this helps the layers stay together.
Expert Tips for Success
Toast your bread before assembling for extra crispiness!
Don’t skip the tanginess—sauerkraut really makes the flavors sing!
Cook it low and slow to ensure the cheese is melted all the way through.
Press gently with a spatula while cooking to help everything meld together.
Variations and Customizations
Looking to put your own spin on the Reuben Sandwich? Switch out corned beef for turkey if you want a lighter version, or go vegetarian by leaving out the meat and doubling up on the cheese and sauerkraut. Breadwise, if rye isn’t your thing, sourdough or multigrain works just fine. Feeling adventurous? Swap Russian dressing for honey mustard or chipotle aioli for a kick of heat. And for a gluten-free version, grab some gluten-free bread and you’re good to go!
Nutritional Information
The Reuben Sandwich is rich and filling, with about 650 calories per serving. Corned beef and Swiss cheese provide a good dose of protein and healthy fats, while the sauerkraut brings in probiotics for gut health. With around 40g of carbs (mostly from the bread), it’s balanced enough for a hearty meal. If you’re watching sodium, reducing the sauerkraut and Russian dressing can help.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Wrap your Reuben in aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through—this keeps the bread crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sandwich soggy!
Recipe Card of Reuben Sandwich
Ingredients list
- 8 slices rye bread
- 0.5 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 slices deli sliced corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut drained
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by rounding up all your ingredients. Get that griddle or skillet heated over medium to ensure a consistent, warm surface for perfection.
- Evenly spread the rich Thousand Island dressing over one side of each bread slice, ensuring a blanket of flavor in every bite.
- Laying on the layers! On four dressed bread slices, stack one slice of Swiss cheese, two slices of savory corned beef, a generous quarter-cup of sauerkraut, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Seal it with another slice of bread, dressing-side down, and butter the outside.
- Grill the sandwiches butter-side down on the griddle. For even cooking, butter the tops and cook until both sides turn deliciously golden brown, approximately 5 minutes each side.
- Savor the crunch as you serve these creations hot from the pan. Dive in and relish each bite!
Recipe Video
Notes
Nutrition
All Your Questions About This Recipe
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar are tasty options.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
You bet! Skip the corned beef and double up on cheese and sauerkraut. Add grilled mushrooms for extra texture.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Definitely, but the bread might lose its crispiness. For the freshest results, assemble ahead but grill just before serving.
Wow, this Reuben Sandwich recipe looks absolutely amazing! I love how it’s so quick and easy, perfect for a weekday lunch. The balance of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut sounds delicious. I might try adding a bit of spicy mustard for an extra kick! Can’t wait to give this a try! 😊