There’s something undeniably comforting about sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled Reuben sandwich, with its layers of savory corned beef, gooey Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut bursting with flavor. As the warm, buttery rye bread hugs the ingredients together, every bite transports me back to the bustling deli counters of my childhood. It’s a meal that whispers relaxation, inviting you to enjoy simple pleasures.
I discovered this delightful recipe not just as a weekend treat, but as a solution to on-the-go weeknight dinners. With just a few pantry staples and minutes of your time, you’ll uncover the secret to a hearty, homemade Reuben that outshines any fast-food fare. Plus, with variations like the zingy Rachel or the hearty German Reuben, there’s a delicious twist awaiting everyone. Join me in creating the ultimate grilled Reuben sandwich that’s sure to impress at your next gathering—or to simply enjoy on a cozy night in. Let’s dive in!
Why Is This The Best Reuben Sandwich?
Delicious Layers: The Best Reuben Sandwich features an irresistible combination of savory corned beef, gooey Swiss cheese, and zesty sauerkraut, perfectly grilled to golden brown perfection.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe makes a delightful meal without the hassle, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
Customizable: Whether you prefer the traditional flavors or want to switch things up with a Rachel or German twist, there’s a version here for everyone.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this sandwich is sure to impress your friends and family, as its comforting taste appeals to all palates.
Nostalgic Comfort: Each bite transports you to a comforting deli, making it a heartwarming choice that satisfies cravings and warms the soul.
The Best Reuben Sandwich Ingredients
For the Sandwich
- Rye Bread – Thick-sliced rye provides the perfect base, bringing a slightly tangy flavor to each bite.
- Corned Beef – This savory star needs to be thinly sliced for that luscious, layered effect that melts in your mouth.
- Swiss Cheese – Opt for creamy Swiss to get that melty goodness; Gruyere or Provolone can be used for a flavor twist.
- Sauerkraut – Essential for that zing! Make sure to drain and pat it dry to keep your sandwich from becoming soggy.
For the Dressing
- Russian Dressing – This creamy concoction is a must to tie all flavors together; keep some extra for dipping!
- Dijon Mustard – Optional, but adding a bit of mustard can elevate the tangy flavor profile for those who like a kick.
For Grilling
- Butter – The secret to a golden, crispy crust; don’t skimp on slathering it on the outside of the bread before grilling.
Embrace the joy of creating the best Reuben sandwich at home, and savor a comfort food experience that satisfies like no fast food can!
How to Make the Best Reuben Sandwich
-
Prepare sauerkraut: Start by draining your sauerkraut and patting it dry with a paper towel. This step ensures your sandwich remains crisp and avoids any sogginess. Slice your corned beef if it’s not already thinly sliced, and have the cheese and dressing within reach.
-
Butter the bread: Take a butter knife and spread a generous layer of butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. On the other side, slather on a good amount of Russian dressing to enhance those comforting flavors.
-
Layer the sandwich: On the non-buttered side of half the bread slices, layer the savory corned beef, followed by the tangy sauerkraut, and finish it off with a slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered sides are on the outside.
-
Grill the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet and grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread turns a beautiful golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly.
-
Serve and enjoy: Let the sandwiches rest for a minute to cool slightly, then cut them diagonally for serving. Pair with extra dressing or Dijon mustard on the side for dipping—your taste buds will thank you!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of dill or parsley for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for the Best Reuben Sandwich
-
Room Temperature: If you need to leave the sandwich out, it’s best enjoyed fresh and should not sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
-
Fridge: Store any leftover Reuben sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap each sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled sandwich (without grilling) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.
-
Reheating: To reheat the sandwich, place it in a skillet over low heat, covered, until the cheese is melted and the bread is warm and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy that comforting taste of the best Reuben sandwich!
Make Ahead Options
These Ultimate Grilled Reuben Sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by assembling the sandwiches without grilling. Simply layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese between the slices of buttered rye bread, then wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain quality, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to grill to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat your skillet and grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and melty. With minimal effort, you’ll have delicious, homemade Reuben sandwiches ready in no time!
What to Serve with Ultimate Grilled Reuben Sandwich?
Dive into a delicious, satisfying meal experience that complements the hearty layers of your Reuben with delightful sides and beverages.
- Crispy Potato Chips: Their crunchy texture perfectly contrasts the melty softness of the sandwich while adding that satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Tangy Dill Pickles: The bright acidity of pickles cuts through the richness, balancing the hearty flavors of corned beef and Swiss cheese.
- Coleslaw: This refreshing, crunchy side brings a pop of color and flavor, providing a delightful textural contrast and added tanginess. Plus, the creaminess complements the savory sandwich beautifully.
- French Fries: Whether they’re crinkle-cut or hand-cut, crispy fries paired with a rich dipping sauce are a classic comfort food duo with the Reuben.
- Tomato Soup: A warm, flavorful bowl of tomato soup by the side invites a delightful dip into creamy goodness that pairs wonderfully with the Reuben’s robust flavors.
- Craft Beer: Pair your sandwich with a light, hoppy brew for a refreshing counterpart that elevates the entire meal experience. Alternatively, a crisp lager is also a fantastic choice!
- Chocolate Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note! Rich, fudgy brownies offer a lovely contrast to the savory sandwich; plus, who can resist a chocolate treat?
Expert Tips for the Best Reuben Sandwich
-
Choose Quality Bread: Opt for thick-sliced rye that can hold up to the hearty ingredients without becoming soggy, ensuring a delightful texture.
-
Perfectly Melted Cheese: For optimal melting, let your cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes before grilling; this helps it become gooey and delicious.
-
Don’t Rush the Grill: Maintain medium-low heat to evenly cook your sandwich. High heat may burn the bread while leaving the cheese unmelted, ruining the experience.
-
Layer Wisely: Be sure to spread the Russian dressing generously, as it complements the savory corned beef and tangy sauerkraut beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor.
-
Press Lightly: While grilling, gently press down on the sandwich with a spatula. This aids in melding flavors without squishing all your delicious fillings out, allowing for a perfect Best Reuben Sandwich every time.
-
Serve Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy your Reuben fresh off the grill. If prepping ahead, assemble and grill just before mealtime for that sought-after warmth and crispiness.
Reuben Sandwich Variations
Mix things up with these scrumptious twists on the classic Reuben that cater to various tastes and preferences!
-
Rachel Sandwich: Swap corned beef for pastrami for a spicy kick that adds personality to your meal. It’s a delightful twist for those who love a bit of heat.
-
German Reuben: Replace the traditional elements with bratwurst or knockwurst and use mustard instead of dressing for a heartier experience. This variation brings a unique, flavorful twist to the traditional favorites.
-
Mini Reuben Sliders: Create cute bite-sized versions using slider buns for gatherings. These crowd-pleasers allow everyone to enjoy the classic flavor in a fun, shareable format.
-
Vegan Delight: Use plant-based meat alternatives and dairy-free cheese for a tasty vegan version. This way, everyone can enjoy the savory sensation of a Reuben without compromising their lifestyle choices.
-
Spicy Reuben: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to amp up the heat levels. This spicy variation will awaken your taste buds while keeping the essence of the Reuben.
-
Breakfast Reuben: Incorporate scrambled eggs and crispy bacon in place of corned beef for a hearty breakfast sandwich. This delightful twist will give your morning routine a tasty boost.
-
Apple & Brie Twist: Layer thinly sliced apples and creamy brie in place of sauerkraut for a sweet, savory flavor combination. It’s a refreshing change that adds a sophisticated touch to your Reuben experience.
-
Mediterranean Reuben: Swap out the sauerkraut for roasted red peppers and feta cheese to add a zesty Mediterranean flair to your sandwich. This variation brings a burst of color and flavor to your plate.
The Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What type of rye bread is best for a Reuben sandwich?
I recommend using thick-sliced rye bread as it provides the right structure and tangy flavor for a perfect Reuben. Look for bread that feels fresh and sturdy to hold the flavorful fillings without getting soggy.
How should I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?
Store any leftover Reuben sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap each sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep it moist and delicious.
Can I freeze Reuben sandwiches?
Absolutely! You can freeze assembled, ungrilled Reuben sandwiches by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge and grill as instructed.
What if my sauerkraut is too soggy?
If your sauerkraut is too soggy, drain it thoroughly and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps avoid a soggy sandwich and enhances the overall flavor and texture.
Can I make a gluten-free Reuben sandwich?
Very! To create a gluten-free version, simply swap the rye bread for gluten-free bread. You can typically find pre-sliced gluten-free options at most grocery stores. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the dressing and cheese, are also gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat a Reuben sandwich?
To reheat a refrigerated or frozen Reuben sandwich, place it in a skillet over low heat, covered. This method ensures the cheese melts evenly while the bread crisps up nicely. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until it’s warm and ready to enjoy!
The Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe: Grilled to Perfection!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare sauerkraut: Start by draining your sauerkraut and patting it dry with a paper towel. Slice your corned beef if it’s not already thinly sliced, and have the cheese and dressing within reach.
- Butter the bread: Take a butter knife and spread a generous layer of butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. On the other side, slather on a good amount of Russian dressing to enhance those comforting flavors.
- Layer the sandwich: On the non-buttered side of half the bread slices, layer the savory corned beef, followed by the tangy sauerkraut, and finish it off with a slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered sides are on the outside.
- Grill the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet and grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread turns a beautiful golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the sandwiches rest for a minute to cool slightly, then cut them diagonally for serving. Pair with extra dressing or Dijon mustard on the side for dipping.