Name: Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp butter; 8 rye bread slices; 16 oz corned beef; 8 swiss cheese slices; 1 cup Sauerkraut; ½ cup Russian dressing

This classic Reuben sandwich is a symphony of flavors and textures. It's a satisfying mixture of salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and a smoky hint from Russian dressing. All these layers are nestled between two slices of buttery rye bread, grilled to perfection. It's a delightful experience to every sandwich lover.

Photos of Reuben Sandwich Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this Reuben sandwich can be found in a typical home kitchen. However, there are a few elements that you might need to seek out. Rye bread, corned beef, and sauerkraut may not be everyday staples, and Swiss cheese and Russian dressing might need a special trip to the supermarket.

Essential Ingredients for a Classic Reuben Sandwich

Butter: Used to grill the bread and give it a nice, crispy texture.

Rye bread: Holds the sandwich together and adds a distinctive flavor.

Corned beef: Gives a salty punch and hearty texture to the sandwich.

Swiss cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy element that balances out the other flavors.

Sauerkraut: Adds a tangy crunch to the sandwich.

Russian dressing: Adds a smoky, creamy element that ties all the flavors together.

One reader, Dorolice Stamper says:

This reuben sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese is simply divine. The Russian dressing adds a zesty kick that ties everything together perfectly. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their sandwich game!

Dorolice Stamper

Techniques Required for Making a Perfect Reuben Sandwich

How to assemble the Reuben sandwich: Layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese between the slices of rye bread, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.

How to cook the Reuben sandwich: Place the assembled sandwich in a pan over medium-low heat, cooking until golden and crisp on both sides, ensuring the cheese melts and the flavors meld together.

How to serve the Reuben sandwich: Cut the sandwich in half and serve with additional Russian dressing for dipping. Enjoy the delicious flavors of the Reuben sandwich!

How To Make Reuben Sandwich

Grab a flavorful bite of this Reuben sandwich, made with layers of corned beef and sauerkraut on rye bread with Russian dressing, for a belly-filling meal!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4tbspbutter
8rye bread slices
16ozcorned beef,sliced
8Swiss cheese slices
1cupsauerkraut,drained and squeezed dry
½cupRussian dressing,or Thousand Island

Instructions

Butter each slice of bread. Place 4 slices of bread, butter side down, on the table or a cutting board.
Spread each slice with 1 tablespoon of dressing and top with 1 slice of cheese, ¼ of the sauerkraut, and ¼ of the corned beef.
Spread the remaining dressing on the second piece of bread, place on top of the sandwich, butter side out.
Place in a pan over medium-low heat, cook until just golden and crisp. Flip and cook on the remaining side.
Cut in half and serve with additional dressing for dipping, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 582.15kcal
Fat: 44.49g
Saturated Fat: 22.71g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.71g
Carbohydrates: 11.46g
Fiber: 1.84g
Sugar: 1.92g
Protein: 33.36g
Cholesterol: 143.28mg
Sodium: 1739.89mg
Calcium: 475.18mg
Potassium: 466.91mg
Iron: 2.95mg
Vitamin A: 220.68µg
Vitamin C: 35.89mg

Expert Tip for Achieving the Ideal Reuben Sandwich Texture

When preparing your Reuben sandwich, it's important to remember that the quality of your ingredients can greatly affect the overall taste. Opt for high-quality, thinly sliced corned beef and fresh sauerkraut. Additionally, the Russian dressing is a key component of this sandwich. You can buy it pre-made, but making it at home allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking. The dressing should have a good balance of sweetness and tanginess to complement the savory corned beef and tangy sauerkraut. Lastly, don't rush the cooking process. The sandwich should be grilled slowly on medium-low heat to ensure the cheese is fully melted and the bread is toasted to a golden brown.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Reuben Sandwich Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the Russian dressing, sauerkraut, and corned beef in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the sandwiches.

Use a griddle: Cook multiple sandwiches at once on a griddle to save time and ensure even browning.

Broil instead of pan-fry: Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a quicker cooking process.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line with all the ingredients to streamline the sandwich-making process.

Quality ingredients: Use high-quality pre-sliced corned beef and Swiss cheese to save time on preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Reuben Sandwich Recipe

butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to butter in the recipe, while also being a healthier alternative.
rye bread - Substitute with pumpernickel bread: Pumpernickel bread has a similar dense and slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients in the Reuben sandwich.
corned beef - Substitute with pastrami: Pastrami has a similar texture and flavor profile to corned beef, making it a delicious alternative for the Reuben sandwich.
swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a mild, nutty flavor and melts well, making it a suitable substitute for Swiss cheese in the Reuben sandwich.
sauerkraut - Substitute with cabbage slaw: Cabbage slaw can provide a crunchy and tangy element similar to sauerkraut, adding a refreshing twist to the Reuben sandwich.
russian dressing - Substitute with Thousand Island dressing: Thousand Island dressing offers a similar creamy and tangy flavor profile, making it a suitable substitute for Russian dressing in the Reuben sandwich.

Plating Ideas for a Delicious Reuben Sandwich

Elevate the Reuben sandwich: Start by using high-quality ingredients such as rye bread, corned beef, and Swiss cheese. Ensure the sandwich is neatly assembled with layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese, and cut into precise halves for a polished presentation.
Garnish with a drizzle of Russian dressing: Create an artful drizzle of Russian dressing on the plate using a squeeze bottle or a spoon to add a touch of elegance to the dish.
Incorporate a side of homemade pickles: Present the Reuben sandwich with a side of house-made pickles to add a pop of color and a complementary flavor profile to the plate.
Utilize a wooden serving board: Serve the Reuben sandwich on a rustic wooden serving board to add a visually appealing and natural element to the presentation.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs: Garnish the plate with a delicate sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or dill to enhance the visual appeal and add a hint of freshness to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Reuben Sandwich

Butter knife: A butter knife is used to spread butter on the bread slices.
Pan: A pan is used to cook the Reuben sandwich over medium-low heat until golden and crisp.
Cutting board: A cutting board is used to assemble the sandwich and prepare the ingredients.
Spatula: A spatula is used to flip the sandwich while cooking in the pan.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is used to slice the corned beef and cut the sandwich in half before serving.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Reuben Sandwiches

To store leftover reuben sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For best results, store the components of the sandwich separately if not consuming right away. Keep the corned beef, sauerkraut, cheese, and bread in separate containers in the refrigerator.
To freeze reuben sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen reuben sandwiches can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat a frozen reuben sandwich, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Unwrap the thawed sandwich and place it on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

How To Reheat Leftover Reuben Sandwiches

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover reuben sandwich in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until the sandwich is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method helps to retain the crispiness of the rye bread while ensuring the filling is hot and gooey.
If you have a panini press or a sandwich maker, you can reheat your reuben sandwich using this appliance. Preheat the press and place the sandwich inside. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. This method is quick and easy, and it will give you a perfectly crisp sandwich.
For a stovetop method, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the leftover reuben sandwich on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. You can add a little butter to the skillet to enhance the flavor and crispiness of the bread.
If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave to reheat your reuben sandwich. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the power of your microwave. Keep in mind that this method may result in a softer, less crispy sandwich.
For a unique twist, try reheating your reuben sandwich in a waffle iron. Preheat the waffle iron and place the sandwich inside. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. This method will give you a fun, waffle-like texture on the outside of your sandwich.

Interesting Trivia About the Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is believed to have originated in the United States, specifically in Omaha, Nebraska. It was created by a Lithuanian-born grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky in the 1920s. The sandwich gained popularity and became a classic American dish, featuring a delicious combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. It's a beloved staple in many delis and restaurants, and its unique flavor profile has made it a favorite among sandwich enthusiasts.

Is Making Reuben Sandwiches at Home Cost-Effective?

This reuben sandwich recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as corned beef, sauerkraut, and rye bread, are reasonably priced and can be used for multiple meals. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $20, making it an affordable option. The sandwich's delicious flavors and hearty portions make it a satisfying meal for the whole family. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and taste.

Is a Reuben Sandwich Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Reuben sandwich, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest choice due to its high calorie, fat, and sodium content. The generous amounts of butter, corned beef, and Swiss cheese contribute to the sandwich's high saturated fat content, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues if consumed regularly. Additionally, the corned beef and sauerkraut are often high in sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems when consumed in excess.

To make this sandwich a bit healthier without compromising its iconic flavor, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a leaner cut of corned beef or substitute it with turkey pastrami for a lower-fat alternative
Use a whole-grain or sprouted rye bread to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients
Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a healthier spread like mashed avocado or hummus
Choose a low-fat Swiss cheese or a smaller amount of regular Swiss cheese to decrease the overall fat content
Incorporate more sauerkraut, as it is low in calories and rich in beneficial probiotics that support digestive health
Prepare a homemade Russian dressing using Greek yogurt as a base to reduce the fat and calorie content while adding a protein boost

Editor's Opinion on the Classic Reuben Sandwich

This Reuben sandwich recipe is a classic and delicious choice. The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks. The use of butter and the cooking method ensure a crispy and golden exterior, adding a delightful texture to the sandwich. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to please anyone looking for a hearty and comforting meal.

Enhance Your Reuben Sandwich Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables with a balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Delicious Alternatives to the Classic Reuben Sandwich

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them to perfection for a healthy and delicious side dish or main course.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slow cook beef short ribs with aromatic vegetables and herbs for a rich and flavorful dish that falls off the bone.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds for a refreshing and satisfying dessert or breakfast option.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for a Reuben Sandwich Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips for the ultimate appetizer experience. A crowd-pleasing dish that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet, tangy strawberry topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy and fruity flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Reuben Sandwich Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a classic Reuben sandwich experience, using high-quality corned beef, flavorful sauerkraut, and rich Swiss cheese. The Russian dressing adds a tangy and creamy element, perfectly complementing the savory ingredients. The method ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the fillings warm and melty. Trust the combination of buttery rye bread and carefully layered ingredients to deliver a satisfying and authentic sandwich experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with making the Recipe Sharing Reuben Sandwich Recipe, and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

What type of bread is best for making a Reuben sandwich?

Rye bread is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, as its slightly tangy flavor complements the other ingredients well. However, if you prefer a different type of bread, feel free to use your favorite variety.

Can I substitute the corned beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! While corned beef is the classic choice, you can substitute it with pastrami, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like tempeh for a delicious twist on the traditional Reuben.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich by substituting the corned beef with grilled or marinated tempeh, and using a vegetarian-friendly cheese. You can also use a plant-based Russian dressing and sauerkraut to complete the sandwich.

Can I make the Russian dressing from scratch?

Of course! Making Russian dressing from scratch is simple and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. A basic recipe typically includes mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and seasonings. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

How can I serve the Reuben sandwich for a crowd?

To serve the Reuben sandwich for a crowd, consider assembling the sandwiches on a large baking sheet and then baking them in the oven until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. This method allows you to make multiple sandwiches at once, making it perfect for gatherings or parties.