Description

Craving something rich, savory, and bursting with layers of flavor? This Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich delivers it all. With layers of juicy corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing, all grilled between buttery, golden rye bread slices—it’s everything a proper deli sandwich should be. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or game day, this hearty sandwich hits the spot every time.

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Ingredients

Scale

8 slices rye bread (marble or seeded rye works great)
½ lb cooked corned beef, sliced thin
4 slices Swiss cheese
1 cup sauerkraut, well drained
4 tbsp Thousand Island dressing or Russian dressing
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Optional Add-Ons:

Dill pickles on the side
Extra dressing for dipping
Caraway seeds for extra rye flavor

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Pat sauerkraut dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture—this keeps the bread crispy.
Butter one side of each bread slice. These will be the outer sides when grilling.
Lay out the bread (butter side down) and spread 1 tbsp of dressing on the unbuttered side of 4 slices.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
4. On top of the dressing, layer 1 slice of Swiss cheese, followed by sliced corned beef, about ¼ cup of sauerkraut, and another slice of cheese.
5. Top with the remaining slices of bread, butter side facing up.

Step 3: Grill the Sandwiches
6. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. If the bread browns too quickly before the cheese melts, reduce the heat and cover the pan for a minute or two.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
9. Slice each sandwich in half. Serve hot with a side of pickles, extra dressing, or chips.

Notes

Use Good Rye Bread – Dense and hearty bread holds up best to the fillings.
Dry the Sauerkraut – Too much moisture makes the sandwich soggy.
Layer Cheese on Both Sides – It acts as a barrier and helps hold everything together.
Use Low Heat If Needed – This ensures the cheese melts before the bread burns.
Press Lightly – Helps everything meld without smashing the sandwich.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American Deli