35-minute Reuben Sandwich Recipe

Indulge in a mouth-watering, classic deli-style Reuben sandwich, right in the comfort of your own home, with the help of this exceptional Reuben recipe. The recipe has received top ratings, so you can trust that the flavors will be perfectly balanced, with every bite offering a satisfying crunch and a delectable combination of savory and tangy flavors.

Ah, the classic Reuben sandwich - a beloved staple of delis everywhere, now brought to life in your own kitchen! With this recipe, you can recreate the nostalgic flavors of a traditional Reuben right at home, ensuring each bite is filled with that perfect blend of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this timeless favorite!

Vadim Rachok

Chef

What Is a Reuben Sandwich?

The Reuben sandwich is a classic American deli favorite known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. Typically made with corned beef and cheese on rye bread, the sandwich is then grilled until the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp. It is a popular menu item in Jewish delis but is not considered kosher due to the combination of meat and cheese.

When it comes to where the Reuben came from, the exact history of the Reuben is somewhat controversial. One popular story claims that it originated with Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer who lived in Omaha, Nebraska. The story goes that the sandwich was first made in the early 20th century at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha, where Kulakofsky and his poker-playing friends gathered for an evening meal.

Another version of the story credits New York City deli owner Arnold Reuben with inventing the sandwich, hence the name “Reuben”.

What Is On a Reuben?

• Whole grain bread: Whole wheat bread is the base for a sandwich. 
• Sliced ham: Provides savory flavor and texture and is the protein component of the sandwich.
• Cheddar cheese: A tangy cheese that melts easily and adds richness to the sandwich.
• Pickled cucumber: Add a spicy and crunchy element to balance the other tastes.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Complement the savory ingredients with a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
• Crispy Onion: Add a crunchy texture and savory flavor with crispy fried onions or shallots.
• Spinach and arugula or lettuce mix: To balance the richness of the other ingredients, these leafy greens add freshness and a hint of bitterness.
• Butter: Used for grilling the sandwich, it adds crispness and richness.

Sauce:

• Mayonnaise: Enhances the flavor and texture of the sandwich with a creamy, tangy spread.
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and heat to the sauce.
• Bell Peppers and Chili: Depending on your preference, these ingredients can be used to add a spicy kick to the sauce.

How to Make a Reuben?

Let’s take a look at the full recipe with a step-by-step guide.

1. First, cut bread into 6-8 slices.
2. Then, slice cheese and cucumber.
3. To make the sauce: Finely dice the peppers and chili, mix with the mayonnaise and ketchup, and season to taste. 
4. Heat a frying pan and brown bread in butter on both sides over medium heat for one and a half minutes on each side.
5. To assemble: Spread 0,5 ounces (15 g) of the sauce on the bottom slice of bread. Top with sun-dried tomatoes and a slice of pickled cucumber. Then, top with the ham and cheddar cheese.
6. Preheat the oven to 365 degrees F (180 degrees C), and bake the sandwiches for 4 minutes (put the top slice in the oven to dry).
7. Remove the sandwiches and spread the top slice with the sauce. Next, place the arugula and spinach on the cheese, sprinkle with fried onions, and cover with the top slice. Enjoy!

Chef Recipe Tips:

• Sun-dried tomatoes can be substituted for fresh tomatoes. 
• If you don’t like spicy food, you can omit the chili peppers.
• Ham can be substituted with bacon.

How to Serve Reuben Sandwiches

Pair your Reuben with one of these classic deli sides:

• A Pickle: A classic accompaniment to a Reuben sandwich is a crisp and tangy pickle spear. It provides a refreshing contrast by cutting through the richness of the sandwich with its acidity.
• Potato Chips: Add texture and flavor to your meal with crispy potato chips. Opt for the classic salty chips or try flavored varieties such as barbecue or sour cream and onion.
• French Fries: Golden and crispy, French fries are always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with your Reuben sandwich. It’s a satisfying and indulgent meal.
• Pasta Salad: Balance the hearty flavors of a Reuben sandwich with a light and refreshing pasta salad. Choose a pasta salad topped with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing for a delicious side dish.

Storing a Reuben Sandwich

If you have leftover sandwiches, you can refrigerate them and enjoy them the next day. However, the bread will probably be soggy, and they won’t be as good as when you make them fresh. My recommendation is to assemble only what you need and refrigerate the rest of the ingredients separately.

Reuben Recipe FAQs

What are Cuban and Reuben sandwiches?

Cuban and Reuben sandwiches differ in ingredients, flavors, and culinary origins, but they are both hearty and delicious sandwiches. The Cuban sandwich is a classic Cuban-American sandwich consisting of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, gherkins, and mustard on Cuban bread, while the Reuben is an iconic American deli sandwich consisting of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, relish, and rye bread.

Is it better to serve a Reuben hot or cold?

Either is fine. However, I strongly prefer a hot Reuben to a cold one.

Why is the sister of the sandwich called “The Rachel”?

Some theories suggest that it’s a play on the name Reuben. Another traditionally Jewish name was chosen to continue the theme.