Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

There's something about the savory combination of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese that makes a Reuben Quesadilla irresistible. Imagine the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich, perfectly crisped between two flour tortillas—it's the best of both worlds!

I discovered this twist on a traditional Reuben during a weekend craving for comfort food. With just a few simple swaps and minimal prep, this dish has become my go-to when I need a quick, hearty snack or meal. Let’s dive into what makes these quesadillas a standout hit.

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners or game-day snacks with this quick and easy Reuben Quesadilla recipe. Packed with bold flavors and ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the kind of recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Perfect for a busy schedule: These quesadillas come together in no time, making them ideal for weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With minimal prep and just one pan to clean, it’s a win for any home cook.

All the Reuben flavors you love: Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing—each bite delivers that classic deli sandwich taste in a new form.

Versatile and customizable: Whether you want to use leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or try a vegetarian twist, this recipe adapts to your needs. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Family-friendly favorite: The crispy tortilla and gooey cheese make these quesadillas kid-approved, while the tangy sauerkraut adds a gourmet touch for adults. Everyone at the table will find something to love.

Ready to dive into these golden, cheesy quesadillas? Let’s explore the simple ingredients that make them shine.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe keeps things simple while highlighting key ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:

Flour tortillas: Large, soft tortillas work best to hold all the fillings. They crisp up beautifully in the pan while staying sturdy enough to handle the gooey goodness inside.

Corned beef: Thinly sliced corned beef is the star of the show. If you don’t have any on hand, pastrami or deli-style roast beef makes a fantastic substitute. For extra flavor, use leftover homemade corned beef if available.

Swiss cheese: The nutty, melty richness of Swiss cheese ties the flavors together. Shredded Swiss melts quickly, but sliced cheese works just as well. If you prefer a sharper taste, try Gruyère.

Sauerkraut: Don’t skip the sauerkraut! Its tangy bite cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef, adding a perfect balance. Drain and pat it dry with paper towels to avoid making the quesadilla soggy.

Thousand Island dressing: A drizzle of Thousand Island dressing inside the quesadilla (or on the side for dipping) brings that signature Reuben creaminess. If you’re out of Thousand Island, Russian dressing or a quick mix of mayo and ketchup works too.

Optional equipment: A non-stick skillet or griddle is key for even browning and easy flipping. A pizza cutter also makes slicing the quesadillas into perfect wedges a breeze.

How To Make This Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

Creating these delectable quesadillas is as simple as layering ingredients and cooking until crisp. Follow these steps for a no-fail, flavor-packed dish:

1. Prep the ingredients: Start by draining the sauerkraut well and patting it dry. This prevents excess moisture from making the tortillas soggy. Lay out your tortillas, corned beef, cheese, and dressing for easy assembly.

2. Layer the quesadilla: Place one tortilla on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing, leaving a small border around the edges. Add a layer of shredded Swiss cheese, followed by the corned beef and sauerkraut. Top with another sprinkle of cheese before placing the second tortilla on top.

3. Heat and cook: Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter or a drizzle of oil to the pan for extra crispiness. Carefully place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even browning.

4. Check for doneness: Once the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown, remove the quesadilla from the pan. Let it rest for a minute before slicing to keep the filling intact.

5. Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the quesadilla into wedges. Serve hot with extra Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.

Cooking tip: Work in batches if making multiple quesadillas, and keep cooked ones warm in a low oven until ready to serve.

Storage Options

These Reuben Quesadillas taste best fresh, but you can easily store leftovers for later. Here’s how:

Refrigerate: Place any cooled quesadilla slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze cooked quesadilla wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheat: To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ideas:

Vegetarian option: Swap the corned beef for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies. The sauerkraut and cheese combination still delivers that tangy, hearty flavor.

Gluten-free twist: Use your favorite gluten-free tortillas. Make sure they’re pliable to prevent tearing when assembling the quesadilla.

Spicy kick: Add a layer of spicy mustard or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a bold, zesty twist.

Cheese variations: While Swiss is traditional, you can experiment with mozzarella, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Low-carb option: Ditch the tortillas and turn this into a Reuben skillet by layering the ingredients in a cast iron pan and broiling until bubbly.

With these delicious options, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it!

Your next favorite comfort food is here, and it’s as simple as tossing a few pantry staples together. Whether you’re serving up a weeknight meal or a party snack, these Reuben Quesadillas deliver every time. Enjoy!

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