There is something utterly irresistible about a classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe that combines crunchy rye bread, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and flavorful corned beef all brought together with creamy Russian dressing. This iconic sandwich perfectly balances savory, tangy, and creamy elements, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re hankering for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this Reuben sandwich will not only satisfy your cravings but also fill your kitchen with comforting aromas that invite everyone to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Reuben Sandwich Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each bringing a distinct character – from the rich, salty corned beef to the tangy sauerkraut and sharp Swiss cheese. These straightforward components work in harmony, ensuring every mouthful bursts with flavor and texture.
- Rye bread: The sturdy, slightly tangy crust holds the sandwich together while adding classic flavor and texture.
- Corned beef: Tender and savory, this deli-sliced meat forms the hearty protein base of the sandwich.
- Sauerkraut: Drained to avoid sogginess, it provides a sharp, fermented tang that contrasts beautifully with the meat.
- Russian dressing: Creamy and flavorful, it adds a zesty kick that brings all the layers together.
- Swiss cheese: Melts flawlessly to create a gooey, nutty richness that’s essential for sandwich perfection.
- Unsalted butter: Softened and used for grilling, it creates a golden, crispy exterior that seals in all the flavors.
How to Make Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
Begin by warming a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. This ensures an even cook, giving your sandwich a beautiful golden crust while gently melting the cheese inside.
Step 2: Spread the Dressing
Generously spread Russian or Thousand Island dressing on one side of each rye bread slice. This step injects the sandwich with a creamy tang that ties the robust flavors together.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
On four slices of the bread (dressing side up), pile on the corned beef, drained sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese slices. Don’t be shy—this layering is what makes the sandwich so satisfyingly rich and flavorful. Then place the remaining four bread slices on top, dressing side down, to complete the assembly.
Step 4: Butter the Sandwiches
Spread softened unsalted butter liberally on the outer sides of each sandwich. This crucial step ensures a perfectly crispy, golden exterior that adds texture and depth to every bite.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet or griddle. Cook for about three to four minutes per side until the bread is beautifully golden brown and the Swiss cheese has melted into gooey goodness. Flip carefully to keep all those layers intact.
Step 6: Remove and Rest
Once your sandwiches reach that picture-perfect level of crispness and melty cheese, remove them from the heat. Let them rest briefly to let the flavors settle and make slicing easier.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Cut your Reuben sandwiches diagonally to reveal the stacked layers inside. Serve immediately while warm—this classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe shines best when fresh and hot, inviting you to savor every last bite.
How to Serve Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes can elevate your Reuben experience. Consider a crisp pickle spear or a handful of crunchy coleslaw alongside your sandwich. These add refreshing contrasts to the richness of the Reuben and brighten the palate.
Side Dishes
The Reuben Sandwich Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like kettle-cooked potato chips, crispy French fries, or a light green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides help balance the hearty, cheesy sandwich, making for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your friends? Serve your Reuben sandwich cut into mini sliders for a fun appetizer twist or wrap it in parchment paper for a nostalgic deli-style feel. Another idea is to serve it open-faced with extra cheese melted on top, then broil briefly for a cheese-topped delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Reuben sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to two days and are perfect for a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled sandwiches before grilling. Wrap them well in freezer-safe packaging to prevent freezer burn. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and grill as usual for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Reuben sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crispy bread and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy and the sandwich less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for the Reuben Sandwich Recipe?
While rye bread is traditional due to its distinctive flavor and texture, you can use pumpernickel or even sourdough for a tasty twist. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up during grilling.
Is Russian dressing necessary, or can I use something else?
Russian dressing is classic for a Reuben because of its tangy, slightly sweet flavor, but Thousand Island dressing works beautifully as a substitute. You can even make your own by combining mayo, ketchup, and a bit of horseradish.
How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?
Draining the sauerkraut thoroughly and not overloading the sandwich with dressing helps keep sogginess at bay. Buttering the bread and grilling promptly locks everything in with a crispy crust.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute corned beef with grilled tempeh or roasted vegetables and use vegetarian Swiss cheese alternatives. The dressing and sauerkraut will still provide that classic Reuben tang.
What’s the best cheese to use in a Reuben sandwich?
Swiss cheese is the traditional choice due to its perfect melting properties and mild, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crafted Reuben sandwich, and this Reuben Sandwich Recipe makes that experience accessible in your own kitchen. It’s such a delight to share this beloved classic with friends and family or just to enjoy a comforting meal yourself. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite go-to sandwich!
Print
Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Reuben sandwich featuring layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, all grilled to golden perfection between slices of rye bread. Perfectly melted cheese and crispy bread make this a satisfying and flavorful deli favorite.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 8 slices rye bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
Fillings
- 1 lb deli-sliced corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut (drained)
- 1/2 cup Russian dressing (or Thousand Island dressing)
- 12 slices Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for grilling the sandwiches.
- Spread Dressing: Spread Russian or Thousand Island dressing evenly on one side of each slice of rye bread to add creamy flavor and moisture.
- Assemble Sandwiches: On four slices of rye bread, layer generous amounts of corned beef, drained sauerkraut, and three slices of Swiss cheese each. Top each with the remaining slices of bread to complete the sandwich assembly.
- Butter the Sandwiches: Butter the outside surfaces of each sandwich generously to ensure a crispy, golden exterior when grilled.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches on the preheated skillet or griddle. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing slightly, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Remove and Rest: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet once cooked, allowing them to rest briefly so the flavors meld and the sandwich cools slightly.
- Serve: Cut each sandwich diagonally and serve immediately while warm and melty. Enjoy your delicious homemade Reuben sandwiches!
Notes
- Use drained sauerkraut to prevent soggy sandwiches.
- Substitute Russian dressing with Thousand Island if preferred for a slightly sweeter taste.
- Pressing the sandwiches gently during cooking helps the cheese melt evenly and the sandwich crisp up nicely.
- Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat in a skillet for best texture.
