Roast Beef Reuben Recipe

There's nothing like the satisfying crunch of toasted rye bread paired with the savory flavors of tender roast beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing. The Roast Beef Reuben is a mouthwatering twist on the classic Reuben, making it perfect for sandwich lovers looking to shake things up.

this Recipe

I first made this sandwich on a chilly Sunday afternoon when I had leftover roast beef from the night before. That accidental discovery turned into a family favorite, with requests pouring in every week for this irresistible sandwich. Let’s dive into why you’re going to love it.

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

Get ready to fall in love with a hearty, flavor-packed sandwich that feels like a hug in every bite. The Roast Beef Reuben combines robust flavors with a satisfying crunch, perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a skillet, you can have this sandwich ready in less than 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

It’s also an excellent way to use up leftovers. Got extra roast beef or a jar of sauerkraut lingering in your fridge? This recipe transforms them into a gourmet meal that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Plus, this sandwich is bursting with bold flavors. The combination of tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, melty Swiss cheese, and the smoky richness of roast beef creates a balance that will keep you coming back for more.

Finally, the crispy rye bread toasted to perfection adds a texture that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese and juicy filling. Trust me, this sandwich has it all.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of the Roast Beef Reuben lies in its carefully chosen, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you need to know about each component:

Rye Bread
The classic choice for a Reuben, rye bread provides the ideal foundation with its hearty texture and subtle tang. Opt for seeded rye if you like an extra punch of flavor.

Roast Beef
The star of the show! Use thinly sliced roast beef—store-bought deli meat works great, but if you have leftover roast beef from dinner, even better. The beef adds a smoky, savory depth that makes this sandwich irresistible.

Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese melts beautifully and has a nutty, mild flavor that perfectly complements the boldness of the roast beef and sauerkraut.

Sauerkraut
Tangy and slightly crunchy, sauerkraut is essential to balancing out the richness of the sandwich. Be sure to drain and pat it dry to avoid a soggy sandwich.

Thousand Island Dressing
This creamy, tangy dressing ties all the flavors together. You can use store-bought or make your own with mayonnaise, ketchup, and a touch of pickle relish.

Butter
A little butter on the bread ensures that perfect golden-brown crust when you toast the sandwich.

You’ll also need a nonstick skillet or griddle for assembling and toasting the sandwiches.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Making a Roast Beef Reuben is simple, but a few key steps ensure perfection. Let’s get started!

Begin by prepping your ingredients. Lay out four slices of rye bread and butter one side of each slice. Thinly slice your roast beef, pat your sauerkraut dry with paper towels, and have your Swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing ready.

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. Spread a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing on the bread.

Layer on a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a hearty portion of roast beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top it with a second slice of bread, buttered side up.

Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on one side, pressing down gently with a spatula for even toasting. Flip it carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the bread is golden and the cheese is fully melted.

Repeat the process for the remaining sandwiches, keeping them warm in a low oven if needed. Serve immediately, and enjoy the gooey, crispy, tangy perfection!

Storage Options

While these sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers with a little care.

If you anticipate needing to store them, don’t assemble the sandwiches ahead of time. Instead, store the components separately:

• Roast beef: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Sauerkraut: Store in its original jar or transfer to a container with a tight lid, lasting up to a week.
• Bread: Rye bread stays fresh in a bread box or sealed bag for 2-3 days.

Reheat assembled sandwiches by placing them in a skillet over low heat until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

The Roast Beef Reuben is incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to customize it to your taste:

Turkey or Corned Beef
Swap out the roast beef for turkey or corned beef for a more traditional Reuben experience or a lighter twist.

Cheese Options
If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, try provolone or a sharp cheddar for a unique flavor profile.

Gluten-Free Bread
Use your favorite gluten-free bread to make this sandwich gluten-free. Rye-flavored gluten-free bread is a great option to maintain the classic taste.

Add a Kick
For a spicier sandwich, mix a little sriracha into your Thousand Island dressing or add pickled jalapeños to the filling.

Vegetarian Version
Replace the roast beef with roasted portobello mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly take.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

Enjoy this hearty Roast Beef Reuben as a satisfying lunch, a quick dinner, or even a party favorite. It's sure to be a hit with anyone who takes a bite.

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