The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli favorite that combines savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Russian dressing, and melted Swiss cheese between slices of rye bread. This hearty sandwich is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
When preparing this Reuben sandwich, you might need to visit the supermarket for a few key ingredients. Corned beef and sauerkraut are not always common pantry items, so make sure to check the deli section for thinly sliced corned beef and the canned or refrigerated section for sauerkraut. Additionally, Russian dressing might not be a staple in every household, but it can usually be found in the condiment aisle.

Ingredients For Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Rye bread: A type of bread made with rye flour, known for its slightly sour taste and dense texture.
Swiss cheese: A mild, nutty cheese that melts beautifully, adding a creamy texture to the sandwich.
Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that adds a tangy flavor and crunchy texture.
Russian dressing: A creamy, slightly spicy dressing made from mayonnaise, ketchup, and other seasonings.
Corned beef: Brined beef that is cooked and sliced thinly, providing a savory and salty flavor.
Butter: Softened butter is used to grill the sandwich to a golden brown perfection.
Technique Tip for Making a Reuben Sandwich
When preparing the sauerkraut for your Reuben sandwich, consider giving it a quick rinse under cold water and then squeezing out the excess moisture. This will help to reduce its acidity and prevent your sandwich from becoming soggy. Additionally, warming the sauerkraut slightly before adding it to the sandwich can help it meld better with the corned beef and swiss cheese, creating a more cohesive and flavorful bite.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
rye bread - Substitute with pumpernickel bread: Pumpernickel offers a similar robust flavor and texture that complements the other ingredients well.
swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone has a mild, slightly tangy flavor that melts well and pairs nicely with the other components.
sauerkraut - Substitute with coleslaw: Coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and tangy flavor, though it is less acidic than sauerkraut.
russian dressing - Substitute with thousand island dressing: Thousand island dressing has a similar creamy and tangy profile, making it a suitable alternative.
corned beef - Substitute with pastrami: Pastrami has a similar texture and flavor profile, with a bit more spice, making it a good substitute.
softened butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to toast the bread, providing a slightly different but still delicious flavor.
Alternative Recipes Similar to a Reuben Sandwich
How to Store or Freeze Your Reuben Sandwich
- Allow the Reuben sandwiches to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
- Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the sandwiches from sticking together.
- Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of storage time.
- Store the sandwiches in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they can last up to 2 months.
- To reheat refrigerated sandwiches, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the sandwiches and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.
- For frozen sandwiches, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen by extending the oven time to 20-25 minutes.
- For a crispier texture, consider reheating the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Avoid using the microwave for reheating as it can make the bread chewy and the sauerkraut soggy.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the Reuben sandwich in aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
For a quicker method, use a skillet. Heat the skillet over medium heat and place the sandwich in it. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly. Flip the sandwich after 3-4 minutes and heat the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the Reuben sandwich on the rack or a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
For a microwave option, place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Note that this method may not keep the bread as crispy as other methods.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the Reuben sandwich in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Essential Tools for Making a Reuben Sandwich
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for grilling the sandwiches to achieve a golden brown crust and melted cheese.
Spatula: A tool used to flip the sandwiches in the skillet to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Butter knife: Used to spread the softened butter on the bread slices.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for assembling the sandwiches.
Knife: Used to slice the corned beef if it is not pre-sliced.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the sauerkraut and Russian dressing accurately.
Plate: Used to hold the assembled sandwiches before grilling.
Serving plate: Used to serve the finished Reuben sandwiches.
How to Save Time on Making a Reuben Sandwich
Pre-butter the bread: Butter all slices of rye bread in advance and store them in the fridge.
Pre-slice the cheese: Have swiss cheese slices ready to go.
Use pre-cooked corned beef: Buy thinly sliced corned beef from the deli.
Drain sauerkraut ahead: Drain and pat dry the sauerkraut before starting.
Make dressing in bulk: Prepare a large batch of russian dressing and store it in the fridge.
Heat the skillet first: Preheat the skillet while assembling the sandwiches.

Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 slices Rye bread
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- ½ cup Sauerkraut drained
- ¼ cup Russian dressing
- 8 oz Corned beef thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Butter softened
Instructions
- 1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- 2. On the unbuttered side, spread Russian dressing.
- 3. Layer corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on two slices of bread, dressing side up.
- 4. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
- 5. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill sandwiches until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Pair with This Recipe
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