If there’s one sandwich that embodies comfort, bold flavors, and a bit of New York/New Jersey deli charm all in one, it’s got to be the Reuben Sandwich Recipe. This iconic sandwich layers tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and a luscious Russian dressing between perfectly toasted rye bread, delivering a harmony of savory, tangy, and rich tastes you’ll crave over and over. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe brings together simple yet essential ingredients that make every bite a memorable experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Reuben Sandwich Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that each add their own magic, from the rye bread’s hearty texture to the creamy, tangy dressing that ties it all together. Understanding the role of each component helps you appreciate why this sandwich stands the test of time.
- Rye bread: The sturdy base with a slightly sour flavor that complements the richness of the fillings perfectly.
- Butter: Softened for spreading on the bread, it ensures a golden, crisp exterior when grilled.
- Russian dressing: A combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and spices that adds creamy tang and a subtle kick.
- Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, bringing a mild, nutty flavor that balances the other bold ingredients.
- Corned beef: Tender and salty, this is the star protein that gives the sandwich its classic flavor.
- Sauerkraut: Adds a punch of acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness with bright, fermented notes.
- Mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper: These create the homemade Russian dressing that elevates every bite.
How to Make Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Russian Dressing
Before assembling your sandwich, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and paprika in a medium bowl. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This zesty homemade Russian dressing brings a creamy, tangy layer essential to every classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe.
Step 2: Butter and Dress the Bread
Take each slice of rye bread and spread softened butter evenly on one side. On the opposite, non-buttered side, generously spread your freshly made Russian dressing. This ensures the bread toasts to golden perfection while infusing flavor throughout.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place four slices of bread, dressing side up, on a clean surface. Layer each with Swiss cheese first, followed by a generous mound of tender corned beef, and finally top with sauerkraut. Cap with the remaining bread slices, dressing side down, creating four stacked sandwiches ready for the skillet.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and carefully place one sandwich in the pan. Grill each side for about three minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crusty, and the Swiss cheese melts luxuriously inside. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches for that ideal melty, crispy finish every time.
How to Serve Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few crunchy dill pickle slices on the side can elevate your presentation and add a pop of freshness. These little touches not only brighten the plate but also complement the rich and tangy flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Classic accompaniments like kettle-cooked potato chips or crispy fries are a no-brainer, pairing wonderfully with the Reuben Sandwich Recipe’s hearty profile. If you want something lighter, a crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your Reuben sandwiches into halves or quarters for a party platter, or stack them in mini slider form for a fun twist. You can also serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup for a cozy, comforting meal that will impress everyone at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Reuben sandwiches (which is rare but wonderful), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. This prevents the rye bread from becoming soggy and keeps the flavors intact.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal because of the sauerkraut and bread texture, you can freeze the corned beef and Russian dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Assemble and grill fresh when ready to enjoy the best quality flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich in a hot skillet or under a broiler for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and the cheese begins to melt again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread chewy and the sauerkraut watery.
FAQs
What makes a Reuben Sandwich different from a regular corned beef sandwich?
The defining features are the addition of sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye bread, grilled to a crispy finish. These ingredients give the Reuben its signature tangy and rich flavor profile that sets it apart.
Can I make the Russian dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Russian dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld. Just give it a good stir before using in your sandwich.
Is there a substitute for Russian dressing?
If you don’t have Russian dressing handy, Thousand Island dressing can work as a flavorful alternative, though the taste will be slightly sweeter and less spicy.
Can I use a different type of bread?
While rye bread is traditional and ideal for a Reuben, pumpernickel or whole wheat breads can be delicious substitutes, adding their own unique notes without overpowering the fillings.
How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?
Butter the bread generously and toast it well on both sides to create a crisp barrier that keeps moisture from seeping in. Also, drain the sauerkraut before assembling to maintain a nice texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about crafting your own Reuben Sandwich Recipe at home. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can recreate this deli classic that’s rich in flavor and nostalgia. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — I promise it will become one of your steadfast favorites for lunch or dinner. Happy sandwich making!
Print
Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Reuben Sandwich featuring layers of tender corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing, all grilled to golden perfection on buttery rye bread. Perfect for a hearty lunch or satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Sandwich
- 8 slices rye bread
- 4 tbsp. butter, softened
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 3/4 lb. corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Russian Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp. ketchup
- 2 tbsp. horseradish
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp. granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp. paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the bread and assemble sandwiches: Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. On the non-buttered side, spread Russian dressing evenly. Layer half of the slices with Swiss cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut. Top each with the remaining slices of bread, dressing side down, forming sandwiches.
- Cook the sandwiches: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Place one sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove from heat and repeat with remaining sandwiches.
- Make the Russian dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and paprika until smooth and combined. Season the dressing with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use rye bread for an authentic flavor and texture.
- Adjust horseradish amount in the dressing for more or less heat.
- Press sandwiches gently with a spatula while cooking to help them brown evenly.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
- Leftover sandwiches can be reheated in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness.
