Classic Reuben Sandwich: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

8 slices of rye bread
8 slices of Swiss cheese
1 pound of corned beef brisket, thinly sliced
1 cup sauerkraut, drained
1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Steps and instructions

Heat a large skillet or griddle on medium heat.
Spread each slice of bread with a generous amount of Thousand Island dressing.
On half of the slices of bread, layer one slice of Swiss cheese, a generous serving of corned beef, a layer of sauerkraut, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the remaining slices of bread, dressing side down.
Spread the butter on the outside of each sandwich.
Place the sandwiches on the skillet or griddle, buttered side down. Spread butter on the top side of the sandwich.
Cook until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Once both sides are toasted, remove the sandwich from the griddle, slice in half and serve warm.

Tools for making

Skillet or griddle - A large skillet or griddle will be needed to cook the sandwiches.
Knife - A knife will be needed to slice the corned beef brisket and the Reuben sandwiches.
Butter knife - A butter knife will be needed to spread the softened butter and Thousand Island dressing.
Spatula - A spatula will be useful for flipping the sandwiches while they are cooking.

Recipe variations

Use marble rye bread instead of traditional rye bread.
Try using Russian dressing or Dijon mustard instead of Thousand Island dressing.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or cheddar.
Replace the corned beef with pastrami for a variation of the Reuben sandwich.
Create a vegetarian version by substituting the corned beef with marinated tempeh or grilled portobello mushrooms.
Make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread or wraps.
Add additional toppings like sliced tomatoes, pickles, or red onion for extra flavor.

Recipe overview

The Classic Reuben sandwich is a lunchtime staple, loved for its perfect combination of flavors and textures. This recipe takes you through the simple steps of making your own Reuben at home, featuring layers of melt-in-your-mouth corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and gooey Swiss cheese, all between slices of butter-toasted rye bread. It's a satisfyingly delicious meal that's easy to prepare and will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of Reubens, this recipe is a must-try!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use a different type of bread if you prefer. However, rye bread is traditionally used for a classic Reuben sandwich.
Can I substitute the Thousand Island dressing? If you're not a fan of Thousand Island dressing, you can substitute it with Russian dressing or even regular mayonnaise if you prefer.
Can I use a different cheese? While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar or provolone if you prefer.
Do I have to use sauerkraut? Sauerkraut is a key ingredient in a Reuben sandwich, as it provides the distinct tangy flavor. However, if you don't like sauerkraut, you can omit it or substitute it with coleslaw.
Can I use pre-packaged corned beef instead of brisket? Yes, you can use pre-packaged corned beef slices instead of cooking a brisket from scratch. Just make sure the slices are thinly sliced for the best texture.

Serving dishes and utensils

Skillet or Griddle - A large skillet or griddle is essential for toasting the Reuben sandwiches.
Butter knife - Use a butter knife to spread the Thousand Island dressing and butter onto the bread.
Spatula - A spatula will be helpful for flipping the sandwiches while they are cooking.
Cutting board - Place the sandwiches on a cutting board for slicing them in half before serving.
Sharp knife - Use a sharp knife to slice the Reuben sandwiches in half.
Plate - Serve the Classic Reuben sandwich on a plate for easy consumption.

Origin stories

While one might suspect the Reuben sandwich comes straight from the delis of New York City, its origins may actually lie in the heart of the United States. It is believed to have been created in Omaha, Nebraska in the 1920s during a late-night poker game. Reuben Kulakofsky, a local grocer, supposedly concocted the sandwich to feed his fellow players. The sandwich impressed one of the players so much that he put it on the menu of his hotel, the Blackstone. The Reuben sandwich swiftly gained popularity, eventually becoming a staple deli item nationwide. So next time you take a bite of this hearty sandwich, remember the humble Omaha origins of this now-famous delicacy.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.