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Reuben Sandwich Recipe

This classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe features layers of savoury corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing grilled between buttery rye bread for a perfectly crispy, flavour-packed sandwich.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 700 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 slices rye bread or marble rye
  • 8 –10 oz corned beef thinly sliced
  • 6 –8 slices Swiss cheese
  • 1 cup sauerkraut well drained and lightly squeezed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 4 tablespoons Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing
  • Optional Homemade Dressing if not using store-bought:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients:

  • Drain the sauerkraut thoroughly to remove excess moisture. If the corned beef is cold, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until just heated through.

Butter the Bread:

  • Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. This will be the outer side when grilling.

Assemble the Sandwich:

  • Place two slices of bread butter-side down. Spread about 1 tablespoon of dressing on each slice.
  • Layer one slice of Swiss cheese on each, followed by corned beef, sauerkraut, and another slice of Swiss cheese.
  • Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side facing up.

Grill the Sandwich:

  • Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3–5 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

Serve:

  • Remove from heat, rest for 1 minute, then slice diagonally and serve warm.

Notes

  • Tip: Lightly warming the sauerkraut in a dry skillet helps prevent soggy bread.
  • Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven.
  • Variations: Swap corned beef for pastrami for a smoky flavour.
  • Use turkey and coleslaw to make a Rachel sandwich.
  • Try marble rye for a slightly sweeter taste.