Reuben Sandwich
The ultimate deli classic. This iconic grilled sandwich layers savory corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing between two slices of hearty rye bread. A perfectly balanced, satisfying meal ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Russian Dressing
- b.In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, and paprika.
- c.Season with salt and pepper, then whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- d.Set the dressing aside. This can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the Sandwiches
- b.Lay out the 8 slices of rye bread on a clean work surface.
- c.Generously butter one side of each slice of bread with the softened butter.
- d.Flip all slices over so the buttered sides are facing down.
- e.On the unbuttered sides, spread a liberal layer of the prepared Russian dressing.
- f.On four of the bread slices, build the sandwich by layering the following in order: one slice of Swiss cheese, 4 oz of corned beef (1/4 of the total), 1/4 cup of the well-drained sauerkraut, and a second slice of Swiss cheese.
- g.Place the remaining four slices of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill to Perfection
- b.Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Do not rush this with high heat, as the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- c.Carefully place the assembled sandwiches onto the hot skillet. You may need to cook them in two batches depending on the size of your pan.
- d.Grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Press down gently with a spatula occasionally to ensure even browning.
- e.The bread should be a deep golden brown and crispy, and the cheese should be completely melted and gooey.
- f.For an extra-melty interior, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two while grilling.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve and Enjoy
- b.Transfer the grilled sandwiches to a cutting board and let them rest for one minute. This helps the sandwich hold together when sliced.
- c.Slice the sandwiches in half diagonally.
- d.Serve immediately while hot, traditionally accompanied by a crisp dill pickle spear.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Squeeze the sauerkraut very well to remove as much liquid as possible. This is the most important step to prevent a soggy sandwich.
- 2Grilling on medium-low heat is crucial. It allows the cheese to melt completely and the center to warm through without burning the bread.
- 3Placing a slice of cheese on both the top and bottom acts as a moisture barrier, protecting the bread from the sauerkraut and dressing.
- 4For an extra gooey melt, you can briefly warm the corned beef in the skillet for a minute before assembling the sandwich.
- 5Use high-quality, thick-sliced rye bread that can stand up to the hearty fillings without falling apart.
- 6A cast-iron skillet provides excellent, even heat for a perfectly grilled, crispy crust.
- 7Let the sandwich rest for a minute before slicing. This allows the melted cheese to set slightly, preventing the fillings from spilling out.
Adapt it for your goals.
The Rachel Sandwich
A popular variation where pastrami is used instead of corned beef, and creamy coleslaw replaces the sauerkraut.
Thousand Island DressingThousand Island Dressing
If you prefer a sweeter dressing, substitute the Russian dressing with Thousand Island dressing, which often contains sweet pickle relish.
Cheese SwapCheese Swap
While Swiss is classic, you can experiment with other good melting cheeses like Gruyère, Provolone, or even a sharp white cheddar.
Bread AlternativesBread Alternatives
Try using pumpernickel or marble rye bread for a different flavor and visual appeal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Corned beef and Swiss cheese provide a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Probiotic Power
Sauerkraut is a fermented food rich in probiotics. These beneficial bacteria can help improve digestion, support gut health, and boost the immune system.
Bone-Building Calcium
Swiss cheese is an excellent source of calcium, a mineral vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.
Frequently asked questions
A single Reuben sandwich made according to this recipe contains approximately 850-900 calories. The exact number can vary based on the specific brands of bread, cheese, and corned beef used.