If you’re looking for a sandwich that packs in savory flavor, creamy richness, and a bit of crunch in every bite, the Skillet Reuben is the answer to your comfort food cravings. Imagine layers of warm corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and the zing of classic dressing, all wrapped up in golden, buttery rye bread – this is a deli favorite you can easily recreate at home. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple skillet, you’re thirty minutes away from a seriously satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of a Skillet Reuben is how every ingredient plays a crucial role, from the hearty rye bread to the melty cheese. Here’s what you’ll need for a memorable sandwich experience, plus the secrets to making each element shine:
- Rye Bread: Choose a hearty sliced loaf with a robust flavor – it’s the classic foundation and provides that signature crunch and aroma.
- Swiss Cheese: Creamy, nutty, and perfectly melty, Swiss ties everything together and helps keep the sauerkraut and beef in place.
- Corned Beef: Thinly sliced for easy layering; choose high-quality deli cuts for the ultimate tender bite and salty punch.
- Sauerkraut: Drain and squeeze it well for less mess and just the right hit of bright, tangy flavor.
- Russian or Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy, zesty spread is essential for that authentic deli character – don’t be shy!
- Unsalted Butter: Softened for easy spreading on the bread, it helps create that craveable golden-brown crust in the skillet.
How to Make Skillet Reuben
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping all your components: drain and squeeze the sauerkraut (no one wants a soggy sandwich!), soften your butter, and lay out the cheese, corned beef, and bread. Having everything ready makes the building process fun and fuss-free.
Step 2: Build the Sandwiches
Lay out your rye bread slices on a clean work surface. Generously spread Russian or Thousand Island dressing on each slice – this not only adds flavor but also moisture. On half of the bread slices, layer one slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a hearty helping of corned beef, a scoop of sauerkraut, and then another slice of cheese before topping with the remaining bread.
Step 3: Butter and Skillet-Ready
Butter the outside of each sandwich for that irresistibly crispy crust. Heat your skillet or griddle over medium. Once it’s hot, arrange the sandwiches in the skillet. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook in batches to avoid crowding – this ensures every Skillet Reuben gets beautifully browned.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Cook each sandwich for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula as they cook. This helps melt the cheese and create that satisfying, golden-brown exterior. Flip carefully and continue cooking until both sides are crisp and the cheese is oozy and melted. Remove from the skillet and let them sit for a moment – slicing will be neater and every flavor will settle in.
How to Serve Skillet Reuben
Garnishes
Top each Skillet Reuben with a classic dill pickle spear or a few thin-sliced pickles. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color or a swirl of extra dressing for those who love a saucier sandwich.
Side Dishes
This sandwich is a meal on its own, but it truly shines paired with kettle-cooked potato chips, a crisp side salad, or even a cup of soup such as tomato or potato. These sides add crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the Skillet Reuben.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, cut the sandwiches into triangles and serve on a wooden board, or skewer mini versions for party sliders. Pile high on a platter, add a bowl of extra dressing for dipping, and watch this classic disappear at any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Skillet Reuben sandwiches, wrap them individually in foil or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The crust may soften a bit, but the flavors deepen and still taste fantastic the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the cooled sandwiches in plastic wrap followed by foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight to keep the bread and filling from becoming mushy when reheating.
Reheating
Bring refrigerated or thawed sandwiches back to life by warming in a skillet over medium-low heat with a touch of butter, pressing gently as they reheat. This returns the bread’s crispy exterior and gooey center – better than the microwave!
FAQs
What’s the best bread for a Skillet Reuben?
The classic choice is seeded or seedless rye bread, which adds both hearty flavor and a bit of chew, holding up beautifully to skillet grilling and juicy fillings.
Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Absolutely! Pastrami brings a smokier, spicier edge to the sandwich, and makes for a delicious twist on the Skillet Reuben.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian Skillet Reuben?
Yes, you can substitute thin slices of roasted mushrooms or grilled tempeh for the corned beef, and enjoy the same tang and richness in every bite.
How do I keep my sandwich crispy?
The key is to thoroughly drain your sauerkraut and evenly butter the bread’s exterior – plus, resist the urge to crowd the skillet, so each Skillet Reuben gets proper contact with the heat.
Can I make Skillet Reuben sandwiches ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Assemble the sandwiches ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Fry them fresh just before serving for maximum crunch and melt; you can even keep them warm in a low oven for a few minutes if needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something seriously delightful about biting into a melty, savory Skillet Reuben that’s just been grilled to golden perfection. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself to a cozy lunch, this sandwich is sure to win hearts and taste buds. Give it a try and let it become a new favorite in your kitchen lineup!
Print
Skillet Reuben Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of a classic Skillet Reuben sandwich with layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and tangy dressing, all grilled to melty perfection on rye bread.
Ingredients
Rye Bread:
- 8 slices
Swiss Cheese:
- 8 slices
Corned Beef:
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced
Sauerkraut:
- 1 cup, drained and squeezed dry
Russian or Thousand Island Dressing:
- 1/4 cup
Unsalted Butter:
- 2 tablespoons, softened
Instructions
- Prepare the Sandwiches: Spread dressing on each slice of rye bread. Layer half of the slices with Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut, and another slice of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter the outsides of each sandwich. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently, until golden and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, press the sandwiches with a spatula or use a sandwich press.
- Substitute pastrami for corned beef if desired.
- Serve with pickles, chips, or a side salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 1050 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
