Reuben Sandwich Recipe

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You’re here for a Reuben Sandwich that delivers melty cheese, crisp rye, and that perfect tangy bite in every single bite. This version stacks the layers just right, grills up golden and buttery, and gives you the exact balance people want when they search for a reuben sandwich recipe. It’s bold, satisfying, and the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich!

 

Ingredient Notes + Variations

This reuben sandwich keeps things classic with hearty rye, warm corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut tucked under a generous swipe of dressing. Every ingredient pulls its weight, so you get that signature flavor in each bite.

• Rye bread – You’ll need 2 slices of bread per sandwich. The hearty base that holds all the delicious layers together. Dark rye bread is fine to use if you prefer a stronger flavor in rye bread. Also consider thicker slices of bread for your sandwich, if desired.
• Corned beef – Thin slices warm quickly and layer easily. Reheat in the skillet before adding to the sandwich for a toasty option. If you have a smoker, you must try my smoked corned beef brisket!
• Swiss cheese – Melts smoothly and adds that mild nutty flavor.
• Sauerkraut – Tangy and bright, be sure it’s well drained.
• Russian dressing or Thousand Island – Creamy, slightly sweet, and essential for that classic reuben flavor. My homemade Russian Dressing is a really good one to use if you want to make it from scratch.
• Butter – Soft butter on the bread creates that crisp golden crust.

How to Make Reuben Sandwiches

A reuben sandwich is all about layering, grilling, and letting the cheese melt into everything. For full recipe details, including ingredient measurements, see the printable recipe card down below.

1. Preheat Large Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches

Butter one side of each piece of bread. Spread Russian dressing on the other side of each slice of bread. Evenly divide and layer cheese, warm corned beef and sauerkraut on four of the pieces of bread on top of the Russian dressing. Top with other four pieces of bread, butter side out. 

If you want to add a second slice of Swiss cheese, go for it! I won’t tell.

3. Grill Sandwiches

Place each sandwich in the hot skillet and grill until golden brown and cheese begins to melt, about 4 minutes. Flip over and brown other side another 3-4 minutes, keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

If you have a Panini Press, that would also work great for grilling a reuben sandwich.

4. Serve!

Remove from heat, cut sandwiches in half and serve.

Tips for Success

• Let the sandwich rest 1 minute before slicing so everything holds together
• Drain the sauerkraut well so the sandwich stays crisp
• Use medium heat so the bread browns evenly while the cheese melts
• Press lightly with a spatula for even contact with the pan

What to Serve with a Reuben Sandwich

Your choices are endless as far as sides to pair with a warm (or cold) reuben! Here are a few of my favorites:

• Homemade Kettle Chips or store-bought Potato Chips
• Air Fryer French Fries, Pomme Frites, or Garlic Parmesan Shoestring Fries
• Potato Salad
• Irish Potatoes & Cabbage
• Thin slices of Homemade Dill Pickles or store-bought Pickle Spears
• See 35+ Ideas for What to Serve with Reuben Sandwiches

This reuben sandwich hits all the right notes with crispy bread, melty cheese, and that signature tang. Make it once and it earns a permanent spot in your rotation. The printable recipe card is below. Have a great day, friends!

Variations

• For a twist, swap out the corned beef for pastrami or turkey for a lighter option.
• Experiment with different types of cheese like Gruyere or cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
• If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, try substituting it with coleslaw for a crunchy texture.

More Sandwiches to Try

• Chicken Salad Sandwich on a Croissant of course!
• Egg Salad Sandwich
• Tuna Salad Sandwich
• Southern Turkey Salad Recipe
• Juicy Turkey Burger Recipe

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.