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 buttery rye bread. This hearty sandwich is perfect for lunch or dinner and is sure to satisfy your cravings for something delicious and comforting.
While most of the ingredients for this Reuben sandwich are common, you might need to pay special attention to Russian dressing and sauerkraut. Russian dressing is a creamy, tangy condiment that might not be a staple in every household, so you may need to pick it up at the supermarket. Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage that adds a unique tangy flavor and can usually be found in the refrigerated section or canned goods aisle.

Ingredients For Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Rye bread: A type of bread made with rye flour, known for its distinctive flavor and dense texture.
Corned beef: Salt-cured beef brisket that is typically sliced thin for sandwiches.
Swiss cheese: A mild, nutty cheese that melts beautifully, perfect for sandwiches.
Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that adds a tangy flavor to the sandwich.
Russian dressing: A creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, ketchup, and other seasonings.
Butter: Softened butter is used to toast the bread to a golden brown.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To achieve the perfect Reuben sandwich, make sure to drain the sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Additionally, when spreading the Russian dressing, ensure an even layer to balance the flavors throughout the sandwich. For an extra crispy texture, press down gently with a spatula while cooking each side.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
rye bread - Substitute with pumpernickel bread: Pumpernickel has a similar dense texture and robust flavor that complements the sandwich well.
rye bread - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough offers a tangy flavor that pairs nicely with the other ingredients.
corned beef - Substitute with pastrami: Pastrami has a similar texture and is also cured, providing a comparable flavor profile.
corned beef - Substitute with roast beef: Roast beef can be used for a less salty and slightly different taste but still maintains the meaty texture.
swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone melts well and has a mild flavor that works in the sandwich.
swiss cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides a creamy texture and mild taste that complements the other ingredients.
sauerkraut - Substitute with coleslaw: Coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and a tangy flavor that can replace the sauerkraut.
sauerkraut - Substitute with kimchi: Kimchi offers a spicy and tangy alternative that adds a unique twist to the sandwich.
russian dressing - Substitute with thousand island dressing: Thousand island dressing has a similar creamy and tangy flavor profile.
russian dressing - Substitute with honey mustard: Honey mustard provides a sweet and tangy flavor that can complement the other ingredients.
softened butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to toast the bread, offering a different but pleasant flavor.
softened butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct replacement for butter, providing a similar texture and taste.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Sandwich
How to Store or Freeze This Sandwich
- Allow the Reuben sandwich to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
- Wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the sandwich from drying out.
- Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against freezer burn and keeps the sandwiches fresh.
- Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the sandwiches have been stored.
- Store in the refrigerator if you plan to eat the sandwiches within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place the sandwiches in the freezer.
- When ready to eat, if refrigerated, reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. If frozen, thaw the sandwich in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- For a quick reheat from frozen, use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Place the wrapped sandwich on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sandwich is heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Avoid using a microwave to reheat, as it can make the bread soggy and the texture less desirable.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the Reuben sandwich in aluminum foil to retain moisture. 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 Reuben sandwich in it. Cover with a lid to help melt the cheese. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is gooey.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the Reuben sandwich in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method ensures a crispy bread and perfectly melted cheese.
For a microwave option, wrap the Reuben sandwich in a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method is less ideal as it may make the bread a bit soggy, but it works in a pinch.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the sandwich over medium heat.
Spatula: A tool used to flip the sandwich to ensure both sides are golden brown.
Butter knife: Used to spread the softened butter on the bread slices.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the sauerkraut and Russian dressing accurately.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to assemble the sandwich ingredients.
Knife: Used to slice the corned beef if it isn't pre-sliced.
Plate: To place the assembled sandwich before cooking and to serve once done.
How to Save Time on Making This Sandwich
Pre-slice ingredients: Pre-slice the rye bread, corned beef, and swiss cheese to save time during assembly.
Use pre-made dressing: Opt for store-bought russian dressing instead of making it from scratch.
Preheat the skillet: Preheat your skillet while you prepare the ingredients to reduce cooking time.
Assemble in advance: Layer the corned beef, swiss cheese, and sauerkraut on the bread slices ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
Cook multiple sandwiches: Use a larger skillet or griddle to cook multiple Reuben sandwiches at once.

Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 slices rye bread
- 8 slices corned beef
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 0.5 cup sauerkraut drained
- 0.25 cup Russian dressing
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
Instructions
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Place two slices, butter side down, on a skillet over medium heat.
- Layer corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut on the bread.
- Spread Russian dressing on the other two slices of bread and place them on top, butter side up.
- Cook until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until golden and cheese is melted.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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