If you are craving a sandwich that perfectly balances savory, tangy, and melty goodness, then this Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe is exactly what you need. With its iconic combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing grilled between buttery rye bread slices, this sandwich offers a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that simply can’t be beat. Whether you’re making lunch for yourself or impressing friends with a comforting deli favorite, this recipe guarantees a deliciously satisfying experience every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each element plays a crucial role in crafting that classic taste. From the tangy sauerkraut to the creamy Thousand Island dressing, every component adds depth and character that make this sandwich so memorable.
- Unsalted Butter: Buttering the bread generously helps achieve that perfect, golden crispy exterior that’s key to any great grilled sandwich.
- Rye Bread: The bread’s slightly earthy, robust flavor complements the rich fillings beautifully and holds up well when grilled.
- Thousand Island Dressing: Adds a creamy, tangy punch that brightens up each bite without overpowering the other flavors.
- Boar’s Head® Sauerkraut: This fermented cabbage brings the essential tang and crunch that contrast wonderfully with the melty cheese and tender meat.
- Gold Label Imported Switzerland Swiss® Cheese: Swiss cheese melts gracefully to bind all ingredients together with its mild, nutty flavor.
- Boar’s Head 1st Cut Corned Beef Brisket: The star of the sandwich, juicy and flavorful corned beef layered to perfection.
How to Make Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Start by spreading unsalted butter evenly on one side of each rye bread slice. This step ensures the sandwiches will toast to a golden crisp and prevents sticking in the skillet. Buttered side down is the way to go when grilling.
Step 2: Apply Thousand Island Dressing
Next, spread about a tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing on the non-buttered side of each slice of bread. This creates a tangy, creamy layer that complements the salty and savory flavors perfectly.
Step 3: Layer the Sauerkraut and Cheese
Add a generous layer of sauerkraut evenly on each slice of bread over the Thousand Island dressing. Then carefully place a slice of Swiss cheese on top, which will melt beautifully as the sandwich grills.
Step 4: Add the Corned Beef and Assemble
Pile the corned beef brisket thickly onto one slice to really get that hearty, satisfying bite. Press the second slice on top, keeping the buttered side facing down against the skillet, and prepare to grill.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwich
Warm a skillet over medium-low heat to gently crisp the bread without burning. Grill the sandwich butter side down until the bread turns a tantalizing golden brown. Flip carefully to toast the other side, while allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
How to Serve Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
When serving your Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe, simple garnishes like a crisp pickle spear or a few extra sauerkraut strands add texture and a touch of acidity to balance the richness. A few sprigs of fresh parsley can also brighten the presentation and offer a subtle refreshing note.
Side Dishes
This classic sandwich pairs beautifully with hearty sides such as crispy potato chips, kettle-cooked fries, or a crisp dill pickle salad. If you crave something lighter, a fresh coleslaw or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the sandwich’s robust flavors without overwhelming them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut your Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe into smaller sliders to serve as party appetizers or a shareable snack. For a rustic touch, serve on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of extra Thousand Island, sauerkraut, and mustard for dipping. Wrapping the sandwich in parchment paper also adds nostalgia and makes it perfect for picnics or casual lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to two days, though ideally eaten the same day to enjoy that toasted bread texture still intact.
Freezing
Freezing a Reuben sandwich is not generally recommended as the sauerkraut and bread textures can suffer; however, you can freeze the corned beef separately if bought in bulk. Defrost it gently before assembling fresh sandwiches to keep that authentic flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, the best method is to use a skillet over low heat, pressing the sandwich gently and flipping until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can lead to soggy bread and uneven melting. This method also helps restore some of the original crispy texture you love in the Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for the Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe?
While rye bread is traditional for its distinctive flavor and sturdiness, pumpernickel or sourdough can be delicious alternatives. Just ensure the bread is firm enough to hold the fillings without getting too soggy.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Absolutely! Substitute the corned beef with grilled tempeh, marinated mushrooms, or even a hearty plant-based deli slice. Using the classic sauerkraut, Swiss cheese (or a dairy-free alternative), and Thousand Island dressing keeps the sandwich flavorful.
Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping regular rye bread for a gluten-free rye or sandwich bread, you can enjoy the Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe without gluten. Just make sure all other ingredients, especially the dressing and sauerkraut, are gluten-free as well.
What’s the best way to get the sauce just right?
Using a good-quality Thousand Island dressing gives you that perfect tangy creaminess essential to the sandwich. If you want to make your own, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for similar results.
Why is the sandwich grilled on medium-low heat?
Grilling at medium-low heat allows the bread to toast evenly and the cheese to melt fully without burning the outside. This gentle cooking is key to achieving that signature golden crust and the gooey center you expect from a Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Making this Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe is a delightful way to indulge in a timeless deli favorite right in your own kitchen. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and treat yourself to a sandwich experience that’s sure to become one of your personal favorites.
Print
Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Reuben sandwich featuring buttery toasted rye bread layered with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing—grilled to perfection on the stovetop for a crispy, melty delight.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 2 slices Rye Bread
- 2 tsp Unsalted Butter
Spread and Filling
- 4 tbsp Thousand Island Dressing
- 2 tbsp Boar’s Head® Sauerkraut
- 2 slices Gold Label Imported Switzerland Swiss® Cheese
- 0.25 lb Boar’s Head 1st Cut Corned Beef Brisket
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Butter each slice of rye bread evenly on one side and place them in a skillet buttered side down to prepare for grilling.
- Apply dressing and toppings: Spread 1 tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing on the non-buttered sides of each bread slice. Evenly distribute 2 tablespoons of sauerkraut on each slice over the dressing.
- Add cheese and meat: Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut on each bread slice. Pile the 0.25 lb of corned beef brisket on one slice, then press the slices together to form the sandwich.
- Grill the sandwich: Place the skillet over medium-low heat and grill the sandwich until the bread turns browned and crisp, melting the cheese inside—about 3-5 minutes. Carefully flip the sandwich over and grill the other side until equally golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the Reuben from the skillet, slice if desired, and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use medium-low heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Pressing the sandwich gently while grilling helps the ingredients meld together.
- Adjust sauerkraut quantity based on your preference for tanginess.
- For extra crispness, you can toast the bread separately before assembling.
- Use fresh rye bread for authentic flavor and best texture.
