reuben sandwich

35-minute Reuben Sandwich Recipe

5/5 (1)
35 mins
Vadim Rachok
06.03.2024
31.03.2024
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Recipe Ingredients Video Nutrition
0.0 / 10
Health score
Nut Free Dish

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!

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”.

recipe for reuben sandwich

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?

Reuben Sandwich Recipe Step By Step 1-4

Reuben Sandwich Recipe Step By Step 5-6

Reuben Sandwich Recipe Step By Step 7

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 do i make a reuben sandwich

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 sandwich recipe

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.

35-minute Reuben Sandwich Recipe
5/5 (1)
Author:Vadim Rachok
A Reuben sandwich is one of my family's favorite quick-fix meals. They are delicious and easy to make, and I like to serve them with steaming bowls of vegetable soup and dill pickles on the side.
reuben sandwich
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
35 mins
Servings:
3
Yield:
3 sandwiches
Ingredients you will need
1 pc whole wheat bread
3,5 ounces (100 g) sliced ham
3,5 ounces (100 g) cheddar cheese
1,4 ounces (40 g) pickled cucumber
1 ounce (30 g) sun-dried tomatoes
0,4 ounces (10 g) onion crispy
0,7 ounces (20 g) spinach and arugula or salad mix
0,7 ounces (20 g) butter
salt
pepper
2,5 ounces (70 g) mayonnaise
2,5 ounces (70 g) ketchup
0,5 pc bell pepper
1 pc small chili pepper
salt (for sauce)
Let’s start !
1

Cut bread into 6-8 slices.

2

Slice cheese and cucumber.

3

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. 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, spread the top slice with the sauce, place the arugula and spinach on the cheese, sprinkle with fried onions, and cover with the top slice.

Nutrition Information
Servings Per Recipe: 3 Calories: 2647
% Daily Value *
 % Daily Value *
Total Fat 40g52%
Saturated Fat 18g90%
Cholesterol 115mg38%
Sodium 1930mg84%
Total Carbohydrate 44g16%
Dietary Fiber 5g17%
Total Sugars 10g 
Protein 32g 
Vitamin C 6mg28%
Calcium 517mg40%
Iron 4mg21%
Potassium 412mg9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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Watch How To Make It

To take your Reuben sandwich to the next level, consider toasting the rye bread before assembling the sandwich. This simple step adds an extra layer of texture and flavor, providing a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the melty cheese and tender corned beef. Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different variations of Russian or Thousand Island dressing to find the perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess for your sandwich. Don't be afraid to get creative and make this classic recipe your own!

Vadim Rachok
Vadim Rachok
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