Reuben Sandwich with Russian Dressing

If you’re a fan of bold, tangy flavors wrapped up in a warm, toasty sandwich, then the Reuben sandwich with Russian dressing is about to become your new favorite lunchtime treat. This classic deli-style sandwich combines layers of savory corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and a delectably creamy Russian dressing that elevates every bite. The best part? You can make this iconic sandwich right at home with simple ingredients and a homemade Russian dressing that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal for lunch or a satisfying dinner, this Reuben is sure to hit the spot.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The Reuben sandwich is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time thanks to its perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy elements. What sets this recipe apart is the homemade Russian dressing, which infuses the sandwich with a vibrant, smoky, and slightly spicy kick thanks to the smoked paprika and horseradish. Unlike store-bought dressings loaded with preservatives and artificial flavors, making your own allows you to control the freshness and quality of ingredients.

Plus, this recipe is fully customizable and uses ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible for any home cook. The combination of tender, flavorful deli meat, melty Swiss cheese, and zesty sauerkraut all sandwiched between toasted rye bread creates a comforting and irresistible meal. It’s perfect for a quick weekday lunch or a leisurely weekend brunch. Once you try this sandwich with the luscious Russian dressing, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.

Ingredients

• For the Russian Dressing:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon onion, finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (ensure a halal-certified brand or substitute with soy sauce)
  • ½ teaspoon yellow mustard
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices rye bread
• 12 oz thinly sliced cooked corned beef (check for halal-certified sources)
• 8 slices Swiss cheese (or a suitable halal cheese alternative)
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
• Butter or margarine for grilling

How To Make Reuben Sandwich with Russian Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Russian Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, finely grated onion, prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce substitute), yellow mustard, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you assemble the sandwich.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Lay out 4 slices of rye bread on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of the Russian dressing on each slice. Layer on the sliced corned beef evenly, followed by a portion of sauerkraut. Top with two slices of Swiss cheese on each sandwich, then place the remaining slices of bread on top, dressing side down.

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter or margarine on the outside of each sandwich slice to ensure a golden, crispy crust. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the bread is toasted and the cheese has melted. Press down slightly with a spatula to help everything meld together.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once golden and melty, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Let them rest for a minute, then slice each sandwich in half. Serve warm with your favorite side like pickles, coleslaw, or potato chips for a complete deli-style experience.

Expert Tips

• Use freshly grated onion: It adds moisture and a natural sweetness to the dressing that pre-chopped or powdered onion can’t match.
• Drain the sauerkraut well: Excess liquid can make your sandwich soggy. Press it between paper towels before adding.
• Low and slow grilling: Cook the sandwich on medium to medium-low heat to melt the cheese thoroughly without burning the bread.
• Customize your bread: While rye is traditional, marble rye or pumpernickel also work beautifully for different flavor profiles.
• Make extra dressing: This dressing is great on burgers, as a dip, or tossed with salads for a tangy twist.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Reuben: Swap the corned beef for grilled portobello mushrooms or thinly sliced tempeh for a plant-based option.
• Cheese alternatives: If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, try provolone or mozzarella for a different melt and flavor.
• Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the Russian dressing for extra heat.
• Gluten-free bread: Use your favorite gluten-free bread to make this sandwich suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Extra crunch: Add thinly sliced pickles or coleslaw inside the sandwich for additional texture.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, unwrap and place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, covering it with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly. Avoid microwaving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can separate the components: store the corned beef, sauerkraut, and dressing individually and assemble fresh sandwiches when ready to enjoy.

FAQ

Can I make the Russian dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The Russian dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors develop even more.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce or prefer to avoid it, soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option) makes a great substitute that keeps the umami flavor intact.

Is there a way to make this sandwich dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace the Swiss cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, such as a vegan mozzarella or cheddar. Also, ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free.

Can I freeze leftover Reuben sandwiches?

While you can freeze the components separately (corned beef, sauerkraut, dressing), freezing the assembled sandwich is not recommended as the bread may become soggy and the texture can degrade. For best results, assemble fresh after thawing ingredients.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a homemade Reuben sandwich with luscious Russian dressing to satisfy your craving for something rich, tangy, and utterly delicious. This recipe brings together the perfect blend of savory corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all elevated by a smoky, slightly spicy dressing made from scratch. Whether you’re an experienced sandwich lover or just discovering the magic of the Reuben, this recipe is easy to follow and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. So next time you want a deli-quality meal at home, give this Reuben sandwich a try—you won’t be disappointed!