Roast Beef Reuben Recipe

There’s something about the rich, savory aroma of a freshly made Reuben sandwich that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. With layers of tender roast beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey melted Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing all nestled between perfectly toasted rye bread, this sandwich is the epitome of comfort food.

I first fell in love with this version of the classic Reuben after experimenting with leftover roast beef from Sunday dinner. It was a revelation—the heartiness of the beef paired beautifully with the traditional flavors. Now, it's my go-to sandwich when I want something indulgent but quick.

Let’s dive into what makes this Roast Beef Reuben so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

Get ready to meet your new favorite sandwich! The Roast Beef Reuben takes everything you love about the classic Reuben and elevates it with a bold, beefy twist.

First off, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Whether you're pulling it together for a hearty lunch or a laid-back dinner, you can whip it up in under 20 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.

It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover roast beef. Instead of letting that tender beef sit in your fridge, transform it into a melty, flavor-packed sandwich.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The combination of beef, sauerkraut, and cheese is so satisfying that even picky eaters will be tempted to take a bite.

Finally, this sandwich is endlessly adaptable. Whether you prefer classic Russian dressing or want to try a zesty Thousand Island version, the options are endless.

Ready to get started? Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of the Roast Beef Reuben lies in its perfectly balanced combination of simple ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

Roast Beef: The star of this sandwich! Leftover roast beef works beautifully, but you can also use deli-sliced roast beef for convenience. Look for meat that’s thinly sliced but still tender and juicy.

Rye Bread: Traditional rye bread with caraway seeds adds that classic Reuben flavor. If you're not a fan of caraway, a marble rye or sourdough is a great alternative.

Swiss Cheese: This mild, nutty cheese melts beautifully and complements the tangy sauerkraut and dressing. Pro tip: opt for thinly sliced Swiss for optimal meltability.

Sauerkraut: Choose a high-quality sauerkraut for maximum flavor. Drain it well to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy. If you're not into sauerkraut, pickled red cabbage is a delicious substitute.

Russian Dressing: A creamy, tangy dressing ties everything together. You can use store-bought or make your own with mayo, ketchup, horseradish, and a touch of paprika. Thousand Island dressing works well, too.

Butter: Don’t skip this! Buttering the bread ensures a crispy, golden crust when you grill the sandwich.

You’ll also need a large skillet or griddle for cooking the sandwich to perfection.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Making a Roast Beef Reuben is as satisfying as eating it. Here’s how to do it, step by step:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by draining your sauerkraut and patting it dry with a paper towel. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Arrange your roast beef, Swiss cheese, and dressing so they're ready to layer.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place a slice of bread butter-side down on a cutting board. Spread a layer of Russian dressing on the unbuttered side. Add a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a generous layer of roast beef, a handful of sauerkraut, and another slice of cheese. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
3. Grill the Sandwich: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. The bread should turn golden brown, and the cheese should melt beautifully.
4. Serve Immediately: Once the sandwich is perfectly toasted and gooey, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it in half. Serve with a side of pickles or chips for the ultimate meal.

This process takes just about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days or impromptu cravings.

Storage Options

If you have leftover ingredients or want to prep ahead, here’s how to store everything:

• Roast Beef: Keep cooked roast beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using.
• Sauerkraut: Store any leftover sauerkraut in its original container or transfer it to a jar with a tight lid. It can last for weeks in the fridge.
• Assembled Sandwiches: While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the sandwiches (without grilling) and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to a day.
• Reheating: To reheat, grill the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

The Roast Beef Reuben is wonderfully versatile, and you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences:

• Turkey Reuben: Swap the roast beef for sliced turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Reuben: Replace the meat with roasted portobello mushrooms or a hearty veggie burger patty.
• Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the Russian dressing for a kick of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free rye bread or your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread.
• Cheese Swap: Try sharp cheddar, provolone, or even a creamy Havarti for a different flavor profile.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients—the beauty of this recipe is that it’s endlessly customizable.

This Roast Beef Reuben is guaranteed to become a household favorite. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to guests, it’s the kind of dish that’s equal parts comforting and impressive. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy every gooey, savory bite!

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