Name: Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices rye bread; 4 Tbsp. butter, softened; 1/4 cup Russian dressing; 8 slices Swiss cheese; 3/4 lb. corned beef; 1 cup sauerkraut; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 3 Tbsp. ketchup; 2 Tbsp. horseradish; 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce; 1 Tbsp. granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp. paprika; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 76 reviews

If you've been on the hunt for the ultimate deli classic, look no further than the Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe. This sandwich is a heavenly combination of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and zesty Russian dressing all hugged between perfectly toasted rye bread. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors and textures that’s comforting, satisfying, and downright addictive. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, this recipe will soon become your go-to for that crave-worthy Reuben sandwich experience.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows an open sandwich on a slice of dark rye bread. The bottom layer is a slice of pale yellow cheese, topped with several thin slices of pink cured meat arranged evenly. On top of the meat, there is a layer of light-colored shredded sauerkraut, slightly wet and spread unevenly. Beside this, there is another slice of dark rye bread spread with a light brown mustard-like sauce. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The charm of the Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in balancing flavors and adding distinctive texture, ensuring the sandwich is nothing short of spectacular. Gather these staples from your pantry and fridge to get started on making this timeless treat.

Rye bread: Offers a slightly tangy and robust base that perfectly holds up to all the fillings.
Butter: Softened to golden brown the bread, giving it a crispy exterior and rich flavor.
Russian dressing: A creamy, tangy spread combining mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and spices to elevate every bite.
Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a smooth, nutty creaminess that binds everything together.
Corned beef: The star protein with its tender, savory, and slightly salty profile.
Sauerkraut: Adds a bold, tangy crunch that cuts through the richness.
Mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper: These come together to create the signature Russian dressing, bringing brightness and a little kick.

How to Make Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Russian dressing

Start by mixing the magic sauce that ties this sandwich together—the Russian dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons ketchup, 2 tablespoons horseradish, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon paprika. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dressing is creamy and zesty, the perfect contrast against the savory corned beef and tangy sauerkraut.

Step 2: Assemble your sandwiches

Butter one side of each of the eight rye bread slices. On the non-buttered sides, generously spread the Russian dressing. Then layer half of those slices with Swiss cheese, followed by the corned beef and sauerkraut. Top with remaining slices of bread, dressing side down, to create your sandwich stacks ready for toasting.

Step 3: Grill to perfection

Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Place one sandwich in the skillet, cooking for about 3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crisp, and the Swiss cheese has melted into luscious gooeyness. Repeat the process for the remaining sandwiches, ensuring each is grilled to that perfect balance of crunch and melt.

How to Serve Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe

A tall sandwich cut in half, stacked with three slices of toasted brown bread, each slice golden brown and crispy. Between the first and second bread slices, there is a thick, creamy melted pale yellow cheese layer. Above this, a generous layer of thinly sliced pink pastrami folds softly, topped with slightly translucent, shredded pale sauerkraut. Between the second and third bread slices is the same thick melted cheese, topped again with a large pile of folded pink pastrami and sauerkraut on top, draped with a creamy, light pink sauce that slightly spills over the meat. The sandwich rests on a white plate with a few green pickle slices on the side, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While this sandwich stands strong on its own, adding a dill pickle spear alongside further enhances the palate with its sharp, cool crunch. For a touch of fresh vibrance, a few sprigs of fresh parsley or some sweet cherry tomatoes can brighten the plate visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong with classic potato chips or crunchy coleslaw to keep the meal light and satisfying. If you want something heartier, creamy tomato soup complements the salty, tangy notes of the sandwich, making the meal feel extra cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice each sandwich diagonally and serve on a wooden board with a variety of pickled vegetables for an eye-catching deli-style spread. Alternatively, cut into small sliders for parties or game day snacks—everyone will love grabbing these mini versions of the Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Best Reuben Sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. They should stay delicious for up to 2 days, though the bread sometimes softens when chilled, so reheating properly is important.

Freezing

While freezing a Reuben can be tricky due to the sauerkraut’s moisture, you can freeze the individual components separately. Freeze the corned beef and Russian dressing in airtight containers, and keep the bread fresh in a sealed bag. Thaw and assemble before grilling to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

To bring leftover Reuben sandwiches back to life, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness and melt the cheese slowly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that signature crunchy crust and perfectly melted interior.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

While traditional rye bread gives the authentic Reuben flavor, you can experiment with pumpernickel or sourdough for a slightly different taste. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without getting soggy.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the corned beef with marinated tempeh, smoked tofu, or even grilled mushrooms. Use vegetarian Swiss cheese or a flavorful dairy-free alternative, and keep the sauerkraut and Russian dressing for an equally satisfying bite.

What can I substitute for Russian dressing?

If you don’t have Russian dressing on hand, Thousand Island dressing is a close alternative that brings similar tang and creaminess. For a homemade touch, mix mayonnaise with ketchup, a dash of horseradish, and some Worcestershire sauce.

How do I make my sauerkraut less salty?

Rinse the sauerkraut under cold water and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the sandwich. This simple step reduces saltiness while maintaining the tangy crunch essential to the Reuben.

Can I grill the sandwich in a panini press?

Yes! A panini press is a quick and effective way to grill your Reuben sandwich evenly and get delightful grill marks. Just be careful not to press too hard to avoid squeezing out the fillings.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting and enjoying the Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe—it's a true celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with friends, this sandwich promises to delight every time. So, grab your ingredients, get your skillet ready, and dive into the delicious world of Reuben perfection!