There’s something so comforting about biting into a warm, flavorful Reuben sandwich. With its melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, and creamy dressing, all grilled to perfection between slices of crispy rye bread, it’s no wonder this sandwich has stood the test of time.
But how did this crowd-pleasing sandwich come to be? While its exact origins are the source of some debate, many credit Reuben Kulakofsky, a grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, with creating the sandwich in the 1920s for his poker buddies. Its rise to fame, however, can be traced to the Blackstone Hotel, where it was later added to the menu. Whatever its beginnings, today the Reuben is celebrated as one of the finest deli sandwiches out there.
If you’re ready to sink your teeth into this classic, here’s how to make the perfect Reuben sandwich at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make two sandwiches (because trust me, you won’t want to share just one!), gather the following ingredients:
- 4 slices of rye bread (marble rye is a popular choice)
- 4-6 oz. of corned beef (sliced thin)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup of sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened for spreading
- 1/4 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing, plus more for serving (optional)
Variations Note:
- If corned beef isn’t your favorite, pastrami is a tasty substitute.
- Homemade Russian dressing is a fun option and usually combines mayo, ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Sauerkraut
Drain your sauerkraut well, pressing out any liquid. This step is important! If it’s too wet, your sandwich might end up soggy instead of perfectly toasted.Butter Your Bread
Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will give you that golden, crispy crust we love.Build the Sandwich (Unheated)
On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, spread a generous spoonful of Russian or Thousand Island dressing. Then layer on 1-2 slices of Swiss cheese, followed by half the corned beef and half the sauerkraut. Top it with another slice of cheese (yes, double the cheese is key!) and place another slice of bread on top, butter side out. Repeat for the second sandwich.Heat Your Pan
Place a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. You want it hot enough to toast the bread but not so high that it burns before the cheese melts.Grill the Sandwiches
Lay the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side. Press lightly with a spatula as they cook to help everything melt together. Flip the sandwiches carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is perfectly gooey.Slice and Serve
Remove the Reubens from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing them in half. Serve with extra Russian or Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.
Tips for Reuben Perfection
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh rye bread, thinly sliced corned beef, and tangy sauerkraut make all the difference.
- Avoid Overloading: It’s tempting to pile on all the fillings, but too much can make the sandwich hard to handle and cook evenly. Strike the perfect balance.
- Press While Cooking: You don’t need a panini press! A simple spatula works to gently press the sandwich and ensure even browning.
Tasty Twists and Accompaniments
While the classic Reuben is a delight on its own, there’s always room to experiment or complement it with the perfect sides:
- Turkey Reuben (aka Rachel Sandwich): Swap the corned beef for turkey and the sauerkraut for coleslaw for a lighter variation.
- Vegetarian Reuben: Use roasted mushrooms or tempeh in place of meat and make sure to use non-dairy cheese and vegan dressing.
- Add a Peppery Kick: Sprinkle a little cracked black pepper or red chili flakes on your corned beef for a spicy twist.
- Accompaniments: Serve your sandwich with crunchy dill pickles, potato chips, or a hearty cup of soup (tomato soup or a rich potato leek soup work wonders). A cold, crisp beer or ginger ale makes for the perfect pairing.
Why You’ll Love It
What makes the Reuben sandwich so special? It’s the combination of textures and flavors in perfect harmony. The crisp bread holds up against the juiciness of the meat and sauerkraut, while the Swiss cheese and creamy dressing add richness that ties everything together. It’s hearty yet balanced, with every bite offering something a little tangy, a little savory, and a lot delicious.
Whether you’re recreating it for a deli-style lunch or impressing guests with the ultimate comfort food dinner, a homemade Reuben sandwich is a surefire winner every time.
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