Irresistibly Gooey Reuben Sandwich Recipe: Crispy Rye Bread Meets Savory Corned Beef & Swiss

If you're craving the ultimate deli-style comfort food, then this Reuben Sandwich recipe is just what you need. Imagine layers of tender, thinly sliced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese, all nestled between crispy slices of buttery rye bread. Add a generous smear of homemade Russian dressing, and you've got a sandwich that will make your taste buds sing! I first discovered this mouthwatering recipe from Insanely Good Recipes, and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since. Trust me, once you make this sandwich, it’ll become your go-to favorite for lunch or dinner.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

A Little History: The Iconic Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is a true American classic, typically made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled on rye bread. While its exact origins are debated, the most popular theory credits Reuben Kulakofsky, a grocer from Omaha, Nebraska, for creating this iconic sandwich in the early 1920s. Whether enjoyed at a New York deli or made right at home, it’s a hearty, satisfying dish that perfectly balances rich flavors with tangy, fermented ingredients.

Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Reuben Sandwich

Let’s dive into the details so you can make this delicious sandwich at home. You’ll want to follow these simple steps for a crisp and gooey Reuben that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of rye bread (preferably marble rye for an extra visual appeal)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup Russian dressing (see the recipe below)
• 1 pound thinly sliced corned beef
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
• 8 slices Swiss cheese

For the Russian Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon grated onion or shallot
• 1 tablespoon horseradish
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Russian Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, grated onion or shallot, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and sweet paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well blended, then set aside.
2. Prepare the Bread: Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. On the unbuttered side of four slices, spread a generous amount of the homemade Russian dressing.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Layer the corned beef on the bread slices that have the dressing, followed by a scoop of sauerkraut and two slices of Swiss cheese on each. Spread more Russian dressing on the unbuttered side of the remaining bread slices and place them on top to close the sandwiches, dressing side down.
4. Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches on the hot surface and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden and crisp, and the cheese begins to melt. Press down gently with a spatula to get a nice, even toast on the bread.
5. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and oozy.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice them diagonally, and serve immediately while they’re hot and gooey. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent Reuben!

Tips & Variations:

• Make it Gluten-Free: Simply swap the rye bread for your favorite gluten-free bread to enjoy this Reuben without gluten.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the corned beef with a plant-based deli-style meat or roasted vegetables for a veggie-friendly take on this classic sandwich.
• Extra Crunch: For an even crunchier bite, lightly toast the bread slices before assembling the sandwich.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve your Reuben with a side of crispy French fries, a pickle spear, or a light salad to balance the richness of the sandwich.

Final Thoughts: A Reuben Sandwich to Remember

There’s something magical about the combination of crispy bread, savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese. The homemade Russian dressing ties it all together with a sweet and zesty kick that you just can’t replicate with store-bought versions. I’m sure this Reuben sandwich will quickly become a beloved addition to your regular recipe rotation, just like it has in my home.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Try it out and let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below, share this recipe with your friends, and follow me for more mouthwatering creations. Huge thanks to Insanely Good Recipes for inspiring this fantastic dish!