Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe (Deli-Style)

Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe (Deli-Style)
Prep 10 min Cook 10 min Serves 4 Source

Ingredients

  • 8 slices rye bread (marbled rye is also common)
  • 1 to 1½ cups sauerkraut (very well drained (rinsed if desired))
  • Butter (softened (or mayo) for grilling the bread)
  • 12 ounces corned beef (thinly sliced (about 3 oz per sandwich - or more as desired for extra meaty!))
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese
  • ½ cup Russian dressing (or Thousand Island)
  • ½ cup mayo
  • ¼ cup chili sauce or ketchup
  • 1-2 tablespoons minced pickles/relish
  • 1 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire + squeeze of lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

  1. 1

    For the dressing, whisk the ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.

  2. 2

    Heat corned beef in a skillet just until warm, 20-30 seconds.

  3. 3

    Warm the sauerkraut in a small pot on the stovetop over low heat (important so the sandwich isn’t cold/wet in the center).

  4. 4

    Build the Sandwich. On 4 slices of rye bread, spread the dressing, then add Swiss cheese, warmed corned beef, warmed/drained sauerkraut. Drizzle a bit more dressing, top with another slice of Swiss if you like it extra melty. Top with remaining bread.

  5. 5

    Butter the outside of the bread (or spread mayo for extra crispy).

  6. 6

    Heat a skillet or large pan to medium heat. Cook each sandwich 3-5 minutes per side, until golden and the cheese melts. Pro Tip: Cover the pan (or tent) to help melt the cheese - a tiny splash of water added nearby creates steam for extra melting power.

  7. 7

    Rest 1 minute, slice, and serve hot.