Few sandwiches can claim the timeless appeal of the Classic Reuben Sandwich. Layered with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and a luscious spread of either homemade Russian or Thousand Island dressing, all hugged between slices of quality rye bread, this sandwich is a celebration of bold, harmonious flavors. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or an indulgent dinner, the Classic Reuben Sandwich delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Reasons to Love Classic Reuben Sandwich

The Classic Reuben Sandwich is a culinary masterpiece for a variety of reasons. Its combination of warm, savory corned beef and the crunch of well-drained sauerkraut offers a delightful textural contrast. The Swiss cheese melts perfectly, binding everything together with creamy richness. The dressing, whether you lean toward the spicy kick of Russian or the sweeter notes of Thousand Island, adds that extra layer of complexity. Plus, the rye bread’s subtle tang and sturdy crumb make it the ideal foundation for this flavor-packed stack.

This sandwich is more than just tasty; it’s an experience that brings together traditional deli flavors in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. If you’re a fan of sandwiches that pack a punch, the Classic Reuben Sandwich is a must-try.

Your Shopping Guide

Rye Bread: Choose 8 slices of quality rye bread with a firm crust and a slightly dense texture to hold the fillings well.
Corned Beef: Look for 1 pound of sliced corned beef from a trusted source. Make sure it’s fresh and tender.
Sauerkraut: Get 1 cup of sauerkraut, but make sure it’s very thoroughly drained to prevent your sandwich from becoming soggy.
Swiss Cheese: Eight slices of Swiss cheese bring that classic mellow, nutty flavor and meltability.
Butter: Four tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature for easy spreading and even browning.
Russian or Thousand Island Dressing: Either ½ cup of homemade Russian Dressing (click here for recipe) for a spicy edge or homemade Thousand Island Dressing for a sweeter touch.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Non-stick skillet or griddle: For toasting the sandwich evenly and achieving that golden crust.
Spatula: To carefully flip the sandwich without losing any filling.
Paper towels: Essential for pressing and drying the sauerkraut thoroughly.
Butter knife: For spreading butter and dressing.
Plate and cutting board: To assemble and cut your sandwich neatly.

Cooking Classic Reuben Sandwich: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Sauerkraut

Drain the sauerkraut thoroughly by pressing it between paper towels or using a fine mesh sieve. Removing excess moisture is crucial to keep your sandwich from becoming soggy and to maintain the ideal texture.

Step 2: Butter the Rye Bread

Spread a thin, even layer of softened unsalted butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. This buttered side will be the exterior, which crisps beautifully when cooked.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

On the unbuttered side of four slices, spread 2 tablespoons of your choice of dressing—either the spicy Russian Dressing or the sweeter Thousand Island Dressing. Layer on the sliced corned beef evenly, then the drained sauerkraut, followed by two slices of Swiss cheese on each sandwich.

Step 4: Close and Press

Top each sandwich with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side facing out. Press them gently to compact the layers slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Sandwich

Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Use a spatula to flip carefully, pressing down slightly to help everything meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Remove the sandwiches from the pan, let them rest for a minute, then cut in half diagonally for the perfect presentation and easier eating.

What to Use Instead

Beef Pastrami: Swap out corned beef for sliced beef pastrami for a similar savory flavor with a slightly smoky twist.
Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, use thinly sliced roasted turkey or chicken breast.
Swiss Cheese Alternatives: Gruyère or Emmental can substitute Swiss cheese if you want a slightly different cheese profile.
Pickled Cabbage: If you can’t find sauerkraut, thinly sliced pickled cabbage works well too, just be sure it’s dry.
Store-bought Dressing: If you’re short on time, high-quality Russian or Thousand Island dressings from the store can be used, though homemade versions always shine.

What I Learned Testing

Draining the sauerkraut thoroughly is a game-changer — skipping this step leads to a soggy sandwich very quickly.
Butter at room temperature spreads much easier and ensures an even toasty crust on the rye bread.
Using high-quality rye bread with a firm crust prevents the sandwich from falling apart during cooking.
The choice of dressing can completely change the character of the sandwich: Russian dressing adds a spicy, tangy kick, while Thousand Island offers a sweeter, milder profile.
Pressing the sandwich gently during cooking helps meld the flavors and ensures the cheese melts evenly without overcooking the bread.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can assemble the Classic Reuben Sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate them unbuttered and ungrilled for up to 4 hours, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. When ready to eat, spread the butter on the bread and grill as directed.

Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped tightly in foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melted.

Ask & Learn

Can I make the Classic Reuben Sandwich vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the corned beef with hearty grilled vegetables or a plant-based deli slice. You can also try adding sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture.

How can I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Make sure the sauerkraut is very well drained by pressing out excess moisture with paper towels. Also, applying butter on the outside of the bread before grilling helps seal it and adds crispness.

What’s the difference between Russian and Thousand Island dressing?

Russian dressing is typically spicier with horseradish and sometimes chili components, while Thousand Island is sweeter, often with a base of ketchup or sweet relish. The choice depends on whether you want a spicy or sweeter sandwich.

Can I freeze the Classic Reuben Sandwich?

While it’s possible to freeze the assembled sandwich, the texture of the sauerkraut and bread may suffer. It’s best to freeze the ingredients separately and assemble fresh before cooking.

Desserts to Finish

Dill Pickle Cottage Cheese Wrap Hack – A refreshing light dessert to balance the hearty sandwich.
Classic Lemon Bars – Bright, tart, and sweet, perfect for cleansing the palate.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse – Creamy and indulgent, yet surprisingly healthy.
Warm Apple Crisp – Comforting with cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy topping.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Classic Reuben Sandwich hot off the griddle with a side of crisp pickle spears or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Pair with your favorite chips or a bowl of soup for extra comfort. Bite into that perfect blend of savory corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all elevated by your chosen dressing, and you’ll understand why this sandwich remains a deli legend. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch or a weekend treat, the Classic Reuben Sandwich never disappoints.

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