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Crispy Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich

crispy corned beef Reuben sandwich - featured image

This crispy corned beef Reuben sandwich features melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and golden rye bread for the ultimate comfort food experience. Quick to make and packed with nostalgic deli flavors, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or sharing at gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 slices thick-sliced rye bread (marble rye preferred)
  • 4 oz thinly sliced corned beef
  • 23 slices (about 2 oz) Swiss cheese (Emmental or Jarlsberg recommended)
  • 1/3 cup well-drained sauerkraut
  • 2 tablespoons Russian or Thousand Island dressing
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional: caraway seeds (if bread does not contain them)
  • Optional: grainy mustard
  • Optional: turkey or pastrami (as substitute for corned beef)
  • Optional: vegan cheese and plant-based corned beef
  • Optional: gluten-free rye bread

Instructions

  1. Gather and prep your ingredients: Measure out corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut (pat dry with paper towels), rye bread, Russian dressing, and softened butter.
  2. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread evenly. Optionally, spread a thin layer of Russian dressing on the inside of the bread.
  3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, on a cutting board. Spread 1 tablespoon Russian dressing on the inside. Layer half the Swiss cheese, then the corned beef, then the sauerkraut, and top with the remaining Swiss cheese. Finish with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
  4. Preheat a large skillet over medium-low heat for about 2 minutes.
  5. Place the sandwich in the skillet. Press gently with a spatula. Cook for 4-5 minutes, checking for a golden-brown crust.
  6. Flip the sandwich carefully, press again, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is melted. If needed, cover the pan with a lid for the last minute to help melt the cheese.
  7. Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and let rest for 1-2 minutes. Slice in half with a serrated knife.
  8. Serve immediately with extra Russian dressing, a pickle spear, or kettle chips.

Notes

For best results, use well-drained sauerkraut and layer cheese on both sides of the filling to hold everything together. Cook over medium-low heat for a crispy crust and melty cheese. If making multiple sandwiches, wipe out the skillet between batches. Sandwich can be adapted with turkey, pastrami, or vegetarian options. Serve hot for maximum crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Reuben sandwich, corned beef, Swiss cheese, rye bread, sauerkraut, deli sandwich, comfort food, easy lunch, skillet sandwich, classic sandwich