Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of melty cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and savory corned beef wrapped in a perfectly crispy tortilla. Reuben Quesadillas bring all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich into a quick, handheld format that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

this Recipe

I first whipped up these quesadillas during a craving for something hearty but didn’t have any rye bread on hand. One bite, and I knew I’d stumbled upon a winning fusion dish! If you love the classic deli sandwich, you’re going to adore this simple, family-friendly twist.

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Quesadilla Recipe

Prepare to fall head over heels for these Reuben Quesadillas! Not only are they absolutely delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make.

First off, they’re super quick and simple to prepare. In just 20 minutes, you can have these golden, gooey quesadillas ready to serve. Perfect for those nights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

These quesadillas are also a great way to use up leftovers. Whether you have extra corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or a jar of sauerkraut lingering in the fridge, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet delight.

Looking for a crowd-pleaser? These quesadillas are a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve them as a main dish, an appetizer for game day, or a quick lunch everyone will rave about.

Finally, this recipe is incredibly customizable. From swapping out corned beef for turkey to experimenting with different cheeses, there’s no limit to the variations you can try.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Reuben Quesadillas lies in their simplicity, yet every ingredient brings something special to the table.

• Flour Tortillas: These are the perfect vessel for holding everything together. Their neutral flavor lets the bold fillings shine, and they crisp up beautifully in the pan. Corn tortillas can work, but flour tortillas are sturdier and closer in flavor to classic Reuben rye bread.
• Corned Beef: The star protein of this dish! Look for thinly sliced deli-style corned beef for easy layering. You can also chop up leftover homemade corned beef for a more rustic texture.
• Swiss Cheese: The essential cheese for a Reuben! Its nutty, slightly sweet flavor complements the tang of the sauerkraut perfectly. Shredded cheese melts faster, but sliced Swiss works just as well.
• Sauerkraut: This adds a punch of tanginess and balances out the richness of the cheese and beef. Be sure to drain it well and give it a quick pat with paper towels to avoid soggy quesadillas.
• Thousand Island Dressing: A must-have for that classic Reuben flavor. Use it both inside the quesadillas and as a dipping sauce. Russian dressing is another great option if you prefer.
• Butter: A light smear on the tortillas before toasting creates that irresistible golden, crispy exterior.

You’ll also need a large skillet or griddle for cooking these quesadillas to perfection.

How to Make Reuben Quesadillas

Creating these delicious quesadillas is as easy as layering, toasting, and serving. Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Slice or shred the corned beef, grate the Swiss cheese, and drain the sauerkraut. Having everything ready to go will make assembly quick and easy.

2. Layer the Quesadillas
Lay out a tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing over half of it. On top of the dressing, layer a portion of Swiss cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut. Add another sprinkle of cheese on top – this helps the tortilla stick together when folded.

3. Cook to Crispy Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small pat of butter. Once melted, place the folded quesadilla in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, with the cheese fully melted.

4. Slice and Serve
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges. Serve with a side of Thousand Island dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

Total Time: With prep and cooking, you’ll have these quesadillas ready in about 20 minutes. The result? A perfectly crispy, melty, and satisfying meal.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence with these!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Place cooled quesadilla slices in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each quesadilla in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispy texture. You can also use an oven or toaster oven set to 350°F, but avoid microwaving as it makes the tortillas soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of these Reuben Quesadillas means you can get creative with the ingredients:

• Swap the Protein: Not a fan of corned beef? Try pastrami, turkey, or even roast beef for a different take.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss is traditional, Havarti or provolone can add a unique twist.
• Add Vegetables: Thinly sliced pickles, caramelized onions, or even shredded cabbage can boost the flavor and texture.
• Make it Spicy: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of spicy mustard for an extra kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Conclusion:

There’s no denying the irresistible charm of Reuben Quesadillas. They’re quick, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use leftovers or just want to switch up your weeknight routine, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

What will you try first – the classic version or a custom spin? Let me know in the comments!

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