The Best Reuben Sandwich Recipe for a Hearty Lunch

The Reuben sandwich, an all-American classic, has stood the test of time and remains a favorite for many sandwich lovers around the world. The combination of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Russian dressing, all pressed between slices of rye bread and grilled to crispy perfection, creates a deliciously satisfying bite. It’s the epitome of comfort food and one that can be enjoyed as a quick lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack.

But where did this delectable sandwich come from, and how can you make the best Reuben sandwich at home ? In this exclusive article, we’ll dive into the history of the Reuben, walk through the key ingredients that make it unique, and offer up the ultimate Reuben sandwich recipe for your next lunch. So, whether you’re a seasoned sandwich maker or a newcomer to the Reuben, you’ll find everything you need to make this iconic dish in your own kitchen.

The History of the Reuben Sandwich

The origin of the Reuben sandwich is somewhat contested, with two popular stories vying for the title of the sandwich’s creation.

1. The Omaha Origin : One story traces the Reuben’s origins to Omaha, Nebraska, where a grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky purportedly invented the sandwich in the 1920s. Kulakofsky, a member of a local poker group, reportedly made the sandwich for his poker pals, and it was such a hit that it became a staple at the Blackstone Hotel, where the poker games were hosted. Charles Schimmel, the hotel’s owner, later added the Reuben to the menu, and its popularity grew from there.
2. The New York Origin : The second, and perhaps more famous, origin story comes from New York City. It’s said that Arnold Reuben, owner of Reuben’s Delicatessen, created the sandwich in the early 1900s. According to legend, Reuben made the sandwich for a famous actress who came into his restaurant after a late-night performance. The sandwich was an instant hit, and soon Reuben’s Deli became known for this savory creation.

Whichever story you believe, one thing is clear : the Reuben sandwich has earned its place in the pantheon of great sandwiches.

The Key Ingredients of a Perfect Reuben Sandwich

To create a truly remarkable Reuben sandwich, each ingredient must be carefully chosen and balanced. While variations exist, the core elements are almost always the same. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients that make a classic Reuben sandwich :

1. Corned Beef

The heart of the Reuben is undoubtedly the corned beef. Corned beef is made from beef brisket that has been cured in a seasoned brine for several days, then slow-cooked to tender, flavorful perfection. It’s savory, salty, and has a rich, meaty taste that pairs perfectly with the other elements of the sandwich.

While you can make your own corned beef at home, many prefer to buy it pre-cooked from a deli or grocery store. When choosing corned beef, look for slices that are thick enough to provide substance but not so thick that they overpower the other ingredients.

1. Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut, which is fermented cabbage, adds a necessary tanginess to the Reuben sandwich. Its slightly sour flavor cuts through the richness of the corned beef and cheese, providing a welcome contrast that brightens each bite. Sauerkraut also adds texture, offering a slight crunch that complements the softness of the meat and cheese.

When using sauerkraut in your Reuben sandwich recipe, it’s important to drain it thoroughly. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy sandwich, which is definitely something to avoid. You can also sauté the sauerkraut briefly to enhance its flavor and ensure that it’s warm when added to the sandwich.

1. Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is another essential component of the Reuben sandwich. Known for its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and signature holes, Swiss cheese melts beautifully, binding the sandwich together. Its creaminess helps balance the acidity of the sauerkraut and complements the corned beef without overwhelming it.

When assembling your Reuben sandwich, be sure to use good-quality Swiss cheese, and don’t be afraid to add a generous slice. The key to a perfect Reuben is the balance between the ingredients, and the right amount of cheese is essential to achieve that harmony.

1. Russian Dressing

Although some variations of the Reuben sandwich use Thousand Island dressing, the traditional choice is Russian dressing. Russian dressing is a tangy, creamy condiment made with mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and a few other seasonings. Its mild spiciness pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients, especially the corned beef and sauerkraut.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own Russian dressing at home, but store-bought varieties work well too. The dressing should be spread evenly across the sandwich to ensure that each bite has a balance of flavors.

1. Rye Bread

Finally, we come to the bread. Rye bread is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, and for good reason. Its earthy, slightly bitter flavor provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich, savory fillings. Marble rye, which is a combination of dark and light rye, is particularly popular for its striking appearance and complex flavor.

To make the perfect Reuben, the bread should be buttered and grilled to golden-brown perfection. The outside should be crispy, while the inside remains soft and tender, allowing the flavors of the sandwich to meld together.

The Ultimate Reuben Sandwich Recipe

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, it’s time to dive into the recipe. This Reuben sandwich recipe is perfect for a satisfying lunch and is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients (Makes 2 sandwiches) :

4 slices of rye bread (or marble rye)

6-8 oz. Of thinly sliced corned beef (about 3-4 oz. Per sandwich)

4 slices of Swiss cheese

½ cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry

4 tbsp. Russian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

2 tbsp. Butter (for grilling)

Optional Ingredients for Homemade Russian Dressing :

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp. Ketchup

1 tbsp. Horseradish

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. Red wine vinegar

¼ tsp. Paprika

Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions :

1. Prepare the Russian Dressing (if making homemade) : In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste and set aside.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches : Lay the slices of rye bread on a clean surface. Spread 1 tablespoon of Russian dressing on each slice of bread.
3. Layer the Ingredients : On two of the slices of bread, layer 1-2 slices of Swiss cheese, followed by 3-4 oz. Of corned beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top each sandwich with the remaining slices of bread, dressing-side down.
4. Grill the Sandwiches : Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter the outside of each sandwich with about ½ tablespoon of butter per side.
5. Cook the Sandwiches : Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to help them cook evenly.
6. Serve and Enjoy : Once the sandwiches are fully grilled, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute or two before cutting them in half. Serve immediately with a pickle spear and some potato chips, or enjoy it on its own for a perfect lunch.

Variations of the Reuben Sandwich

While the classic Reuben sandwich recipe is hard to beat, there are a few variations that offer new twists on this timeless favorite :

1. The Rachel Sandwich : A popular cousin of the Reuben, the Rachel sandwich replaces corned beef with turkey or pastrami and swaps sauerkraut for coleslaw. It’s a lighter, yet equally flavorful, alternative to the original.
2. Vegetarian Reuben : For a meatless option, substitute the corned beef with roasted vegetables or a plant-based alternative like tempeh or seitan. You can also find vegan versions of Swiss cheese and Russian dressing to make a completely vegan Reuben.
3. Reuben Casserole : If you’re serving a crowd or looking for a new way to enjoy the flavors of a Reuben, consider making a Reuben casserole. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish and bake until hot and bubbly. Serve it with a side of toasted rye bread or crackers for a deconstructed Reuben experience.

Tips for Making the Perfect Reuben Sandwich

Use fresh ingredients : The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your sandwich. Whenever possible, use fresh, deli-sliced corned beef, good-quality Swiss cheese, and fresh rye bread.

Don’t overfill : While it’s tempting to pile on the ingredients, overstuffing your Reuben can lead to a messy sandwich. Aim for a balanced sandwich with each ingredient playing its part.

Grill to perfection : A well-grilled Reuben is golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and gooey on the inside. Be patient while Grilling your sandwich, and keep the heat at medium to ensure even cooking. Press down with a spatula as it grills to encourage crispness without burning the bread.

Drain the sauerkraut : Wet sauerkraut can turn your sandwich soggy, so make sure to drain and pat it dry before adding it to the sandwich. You can also warm the sauerkraut slightly before assembling the sandwich to ensure everything is hot and evenly cooked.

Layer thoughtfully : Place the Swiss cheese slices directly against the bread and corned beef. The cheese acts as a binder that keeps the sandwich from falling apart while grilling. It also ensures that the cheese melts thoroughly, creating that gooey, irresistible texture that’s crucial to a good Reuben.

Pairing Your Reuben Sandwich with the Perfect Sides

The Reuben sandwich is a hearty and flavorful dish on its own, but pairing it with the right side can elevate your lunch to the next level. Here are a few side dishes that complement the flavors of the Reuben :

1. Pickles : The briny tang of a pickle spear is a classic accompaniment to a Reuben. Whether you prefer a crisp dill pickle or a spicy variety, the sharp contrast cuts through the richness of the sandwich.
2. Potato Chips or French Fries : A crunchy side like potato chips or fries is a great textural contrast to the softness of the Reuben. You can opt for classic salted chips, or try something more adventurous like kettle-cooked or flavored chips to mix things up.
3. Potato Salad : A creamy potato salad is another great option. Its smooth texture and mild flavor provide a cool and satisfying contrast to the hot, savory Reuben.
4. Coleslaw : If you enjoy the combination of sweet and tangy flavors, coleslaw is a fantastic match. Its crunch and zesty dressing pair well with the Reuben’s ingredients, especially if you enjoy the Rachel variation of the sandwich.
5. Tomato Soup : For a comforting meal, pair your Reuben with a cup of tomato soup. The acidity of the tomatoes complements the richness of the sandwich and adds warmth, especially on a cold day.
6. Beer : If you’re looking to add a beverage to the mix, a light, crisp beer like a pilsner or a German lager is a traditional pairing for a Reuben sandwich. The refreshing carbonation of the beer helps cleanse the palate between bites, keeping the meal from feeling too heavy.

A Lunch Classic That Never Gets Old

The Reuben sandwich has stood the test of time for good reason. Its combination of savory, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements creates a perfect balance of flavors that delights the senses. Whether you’re making it for a simple weekday lunch, a weekend treat, or a casual dinner, a well-executed Reuben sandwich can satisfy cravings and offer a moment of indulgence.

Despite its origins in early 20th-century America, the Reuben remains relevant and adaptable to modern tastes. With the rise of creative sandwich-making, people are finding new ways to tweak the traditional recipe—whether that means using artisanal rye bread, swapping in different cheeses, or experimenting with homemade dressings. The beauty of the Reuben lies in its versatility, allowing it to be both a nostalgic classic and a canvas for culinary experimentation.

In Conclusion

Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves the classic Reuben sandwich recipe or someone who likes to experiment with variations, there’s no denying that this iconic sandwich offers a fulfilling and delicious experience. The perfect balance of ingredients—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and rye bread—makes for a lunchtime favorite that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat.

The Reuben sandwich is more than just a meal ; it’s a comforting reminder of the beauty of simple, well-balanced flavors. The next time you’re craving a hearty, delicious lunch, give this recipe a try, and enjoy a little taste of sandwich history in every bite.