There's something magical about a perfectly grilled Reuben Sandwich - the way the Swiss cheese melts into those crispy sourdough slices while the tangy sauerkraut mingles with tender corned beef. My husband still talks about the first time I made this best reuben recipe three years ago, when our kitchen filled with that incredible aroma that had our neighbors knocking on the door.
This sandwich recipe transforms simple deli ingredients into something extraordinary, and trust me, once you master this technique, you'll never order takeout again.
Why You'll Love This Reuben Sandwich
This isn't just another sandwich recipe - it's the kind of dinner sandwich that makes weeknight meals feel special. What makes this reuben sandwich recipe so incredible is how it balances every single flavor perfectly. The tangy Russian dressing cuts through the rich corned beef, while the sauerkraut adds that perfect acidic crunch.
My sister swears this beats any deli sandwich she's ever had, and she's tried plenty! The magic happens when you grill it just right, creating those golden, crispy edges that give way to warm, melty goodness inside. Plus, it's one of those sandwich ideas that works perfectly for little lunch or hearty dinner sandwiches.
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What You'll Need
These ingredients are probably sitting in your fridge right now - that's the beauty of this classic reuben sandwich recipe. I love how this comes together with simple pantry staples and deli favorites.
This reuben sandwich is super easy - full steps are in the recipe card.
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices rye or sourdough bread
- 1 pound sliced corned beef
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- ½ cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Optional Extras
You can add pickles on the side or swap the dressing for spicy mustard if that's more your style.
How to Make Reuben Sandwich
Prep Your Bread Base
Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. This creates that perfect golden crust when you grill your sandwich.
Layer the Dressing
Flip the bread butter-side down and spread Russian dressing on the unbuttered sides. Don't be shy - this is what makes the best reuben recipe so flavorful.
Build Your Sandwich Stack
Layer Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut, and another slice of cheese on four bread pieces. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
Grill to Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts completely.
Can I make reuben sandwiches ahead of time? You can prep the ingredients separately, but assemble and grill right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Aliana's Pro Tip
The secret to the perfect grilled sandwich recipe? Don't rush the cooking process. Keep your heat at medium and let those flavors meld together slowly.
My mom taught me to press down gently with a spatula - just enough to help everything stick together, but not so much that you squeeze out all the good stuff.
That's how you get those restaurant-quality results at home with this corned beef recipe.
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Out of rye bread? Sourdough sandwich ideas work beautifully here. Turkey can replace corned beef for a lighter version, and coleslaw works instead of sauerkraut if that's what you prefer.
Storage & Serving Tips
These reuben sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is still melty. Leftovers can be stored wrapped in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet over low heat.
What to Serve With Reuben Sandwich
My family loves these dinner sandwiches with crispy potato chips and dill pickles on the side. A simple green salad or tomato soup makes this feel like a complete meal that satisfies everyone.
FAQs About Reuben Sandwich
Can I use different bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rye is traditional, sourdough or pumpernickel work great too.
What's the difference between Russian and Thousand Island dressing?
Russian dressing typically has more horseradish kick, while Thousand Island is sweeter and milder.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Drain your sauerkraut well and don't overload with dressing.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're looking for more sandwich ideas to serve for Dinner, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and always a crowd-pleaser:
- Chef John's Cuban Sandwich Recipe
- Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich Recipe
- Inside-Out Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
Tried this recipe? Tag me on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - I'd love to see your twist on it! You'll find this reuben sandwich recipe in my sandwich recipes collection where all my family's favorite handheld meals live.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Reuben Sandwich Recipe:
Classic Reuben Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice to create a rich, golden crust.
- Flip the bread and spread Russian dressing generously on the unbuttered sides to add tangy flavor.
- Layer Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut, and more cheese on four slices to build the sandwich.
- Top with the remaining bread slices ensuring the buttered sides face outward for grilling.
- Grill in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown.
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