Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Description:
The Reuben sandwich is a grilled sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, served between slices of rye bread. It’s hearty, savory, and tangy — a deli staple beloved across America, particularly in Jewish delis (despite mixing meat and dairy, which traditional Jewish dietary laws prohibit).
Time Required:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients:
Ingredient Amount (for 2 sandwiches)
Rye bread 4 slices
Corned beef (thinly sliced) 8 oz (225g)
Swiss cheese 4 slices
Sauerkraut (drained) 1 cup
Russian or Thousand Island dressing 4 tbsp
Butter (softened) 2 tbsp (for spreading)
Instructions:
Prepare the Bread:
Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
Lay them buttered-side down on a flat surface.
Assemble the Sandwich:
Spread 1 tablespoon of dressing on each unbuttered side of bread.
Layer with 2 slices of Swiss cheese, 4 oz of corned beef, and ½ cup of sauerkraut per sandwich.
Top with the second slice of bread, dressing side facing in.
Grill the Sandwiches:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Place sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes per side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Selrve:
Slice in half and serve hot. Optional: Add a pickle spear or chips on the side.
Nutrition Information (Per Sandwich):
Nutrient Approximate Value
Calories 620 kcal
Protein 32 g
Fat 38 g
Saturated Fat 18 g
Carbohydrates 40 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugars 5 g
Sodium 1900 mg
Cholesterol 95 mg
Note: Nutrition will vary based on brand and portion sizes. To reduce sodium or fat, consider using low-sodium corned beef and low-fat cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
A: Yes! Pastrami is a flavorful alternative and commonly used in variations of the Reuben, often called a “Rachel Sandwich.”
Q: What’s the difference between Russian and Thousand Island dressing?
A: Russian dressing is spicier, often made with horseradish and paprika. Thousand Island is sweeter and creamier, made with pickle relish. Both are great on a Reuben.
Q: How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
A: Drain and pat the sauerkraut dry before using it. Also, grilling the sandwich helps toast the bread and melt everything together to avoid sogginess.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use plant-based deli slices or grilled tempeh/tofu and vegan cheese. Sauerkraut and dressing are typically plant-based (check ingredients).
Q: What sides go well with a Reuben?
A: Classic sides include pickles, coleslaw, potato chips, or a dill potato salad.