Savory, melty, and layered with bold flavor, the Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich is a deli classic that never goes out of style. This hearty sandwich combines tender slices of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melty Swiss cheese, all grilled between slices of buttery rye bread. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day, it’s comfort food at its best—crispy, warm, and packed with flavor in every bite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Deli Flavor – A nostalgic favorite made right at home.
Hearty and Filling – Loaded with meat, cheese, and sauerkraut.
Perfectly Grilled – Crispy bread and gooey melted cheese.
Easy to Make – Just a few ingredients and a skillet.
Crowd-Pleaser – Great for family meals or parties.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sandwiches (Makes 4):
• 8 slices rye bread (marbled or seeded)
• 8–12 oz sliced corned beef (homemade or deli-style)
• 1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 tbsp Thousand Island dressing (or Russian dressing)
• 2–3 tbsp butter, softened
Optional Add-Ins:
• Sliced pickles (for extra tang)
• Spicy mustard (for a bold kick)
• Caramelized onions (for added depth)
Tools You’ll Need
• Skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Butter knife
• Paper towels (for draining sauerkraut)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of bread.
Pat the sauerkraut dry using paper towels to avoid a soggy sandwich.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
On four slices of bread (dressing side up), layer Swiss cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut.
Top with the remaining bread slices, dressing side down.
Butter the outside of each slice of bread (both top and bottom of the sandwich).
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Place sandwiches in the skillet and grill for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute.
Slice each sandwich in half and serve hot with chips, pickles, or a side salad.
Tips for the Best Reuben Sandwich
Use Good Rye Bread – The flavor and texture matter.
Drain Sauerkraut Well – Prevents soggy sandwiches.
Low & Slow – Grill on medium heat for a crispy crust without burning.
Layer Cheese on Both Sides – Helps hold everything together and ensures melty goodness.
Toast in a Panini Press – For perfectly even browning if you have one.
Serving Suggestions
• With potato chips or a pickle spear
• Alongside coleslaw or a dill potato salad
• Paired with a hot cup of tomato soup
• With a side of mustard or extra Thousand Island for dipping
• As sliders for a party platter
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
• Wrap cooled sandwiches in foil or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Reheating:
• Skillet: Reheat on low to medium heat to crisp up the bread.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Yes! Pastrami is a delicious twist on the traditional Reuben.
2. What’s the difference between Thousand Island and Russian dressing?
Russian dressing is spicier and less sweet; both are great options.
3. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Assemble but don’t grill—wrap and refrigerate. Grill fresh for best texture.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—use plant-based deli slices or grilled tempeh, and keep the rest the same.
5. Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?
Not ideal. The texture suffers when thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Final Thoughts
The Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich is a timeless classic with its satisfying blend of savory meat, melty cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy rye bread. Whether you make it for a quick lunch, dinner, or a crowd-pleasing platter, this sandwich delivers bold flavor and hearty satisfaction every time.
Try it out and share your twist—whether you add pickles, go spicy, or keep it traditional, this Reuben is sure to become a staple!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American Deli-Style
Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich):
Calories: 560 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 34g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 1020mg
Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Description
Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich
Savory, melty, and layered with bold flavor, the Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich is a deli classic that never goes out of style. This hearty sandwich combines tender slices of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melty Swiss cheese, all grilled between slices of buttery rye bread. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day, it’s comfort food at its best—crispy, warm, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Love iconic sandwiches? Subscribe now to get more hearty, homemade deli-style recipes sent straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
For the Sandwiches (Makes 4):
• 8 slices rye bread (marbled or seeded)
• 8–12 oz sliced corned beef (homemade or deli-style)
• 1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 tbsp Thousand Island dressing (or Russian dressing)
• 2–3 tbsp butter, softened
Optional Add-Ins:
• Sliced pickles (for extra tang)
• Spicy mustard (for a bold kick)
• Caramelized onions (for added depth)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of bread.
Pat the sauerkraut dry using paper towels to avoid a soggy sandwich.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
On four slices of bread (dressing side up), layer Swiss cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut.
Top with the remaining bread slices, dressing side down.
Butter the outside of each slice of bread (both top and bottom of the sandwich).
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Place sandwiches in the skillet and grill for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute.
Slice each sandwich in half and serve hot with chips, pickles, or a side salad.
Notes
Use Good Rye Bread – The flavor and texture matter.
Drain Sauerkraut Well – Prevents soggy sandwiches.
Low & Slow – Grill on medium heat for a crispy crust without burning.
Layer Cheese on Both Sides – Helps hold everything together and ensures melty goodness.
Toast in a Panini Press – For perfectly even browning if you have one.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American Deli-Style
