Roast Beef Reuben Recipe

There's something magical about biting into a perfectly crafted Roast Beef Reuben sandwich. The tender, juicy beef paired with tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all held together by crispy, buttery rye bread—this is comfort food at its finest.

I first discovered this delightful twist on the classic Reuben when I had leftover roast beef from Sunday dinner. With a quick pantry raid and a little creativity, this sandwich was born and quickly became a family favorite. Whether you're craving a hearty lunch or a quick, satisfying dinner, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

Get ready to enjoy your new go-to sandwich recipe! The Roast Beef Reuben offers everything you love about the traditional Reuben with an exciting twist.

First, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of savory roast beef, the sharpness of Swiss cheese, and the tangy punch of sauerkraut creates a medley of bold tastes in every bite. Add the creamy sweetness of Thousand Island dressing, and you have a perfectly balanced sandwich.

Next, this recipe is a breeze to make. In less than 20 minutes, you can go from prep to table, making it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.

It’s also versatile! Whether you’re repurposing leftover roast beef or starting from scratch, this sandwich is flexible enough to accommodate what you have on hand.

Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Serve these sandwiches at a casual family dinner or as a game-day snack, and watch them disappear in minutes.

Hungry yet? Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering sandwich.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients in this Roast Beef Reuben are simple, yet each one plays a vital role in creating that unforgettable flavor.

• Roast Beef: The star of the show! Leftover roast beef works beautifully, but deli-sliced roast beef is an excellent alternative. Look for beef with a good balance of flavor and tenderness.
• Rye Bread: Classic rye bread with caraway seeds adds the traditional Reuben flavor, but you can use pumpernickel or marbled rye for a fun twist.
• Swiss Cheese: The melty richness of Swiss cheese ties all the flavors together. If you prefer a sharper taste, opt for aged Swiss.
• Sauerkraut: Tangy, slightly salty sauerkraut provides the classic Reuben kick. Be sure to drain it well to prevent soggy bread.
• Thousand Island Dressing: Creamy and slightly sweet, Thousand Island dressing is the glue that binds this sandwich. You can use store-bought or make your own with mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish.
• Butter: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust when grilling the sandwich. Don’t skimp on this step—it’s worth it!

Special Equipment: A large skillet or griddle will ensure even cooking and that delightful crispy exterior.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Making a Roast Beef Reuben is as easy as assembling, grilling, and enjoying. Follow these steps for a sandwich that’s perfectly crispy and gooey every time.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients
   Start by gathering all your ingredients. Drain the sauerkraut thoroughly, slice the roast beef if needed, and butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Lay your ingredients out for easy assembly.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
   Place a slice of bread, buttered side down, on a cutting board or plate. Spread a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing on the unbuttered side. Add a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a layer of roast beef and a scoop of well-drained sauerkraut. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese and the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
3. Cook the Sandwiches
   Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the pan, pressing gently with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve and Enjoy
   Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice them in half, and serve immediately. Pair with dill pickles or potato chips for the ultimate deli-style experience.

This recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Storage Options

If you have leftover ingredients or sandwiches, here’s how to store them for maximum freshness.

• Refrigerator: Store any unused roast beef, sauerkraut, or cheese in airtight containers for up to 3 days. If you have already assembled but not grilled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• Freezer: You can freeze fully assembled sandwiches (before grilling) by wrapping them in foil and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For refrigerated sandwiches, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore crispiness. Frozen sandwiches can be reheated directly from the freezer by grilling on low heat until warmed through and crispy.

Variations and Substitution

One of the best things about the Roast Beef Reuben is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences.

• Protein Swap: Not a fan of roast beef? Try corned beef, pastrami, or even turkey for a lighter version.
• Cheese Options: While Swiss is traditional, Havarti or provolone also work wonderfully. For a more robust flavor, experiment with smoked Gouda.
• Bread Choices: If rye isn’t your favorite, use sourdough, ciabatta, or even a hearty whole-grain bread.
• Dressing Variations: Swap out Thousand Island dressing for spicy Russian dressing or a creamy horseradish sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and load up on roasted veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. No matter how you adapt it, the result will be a delicious, comforting sandwich that’s sure to please.

There you have it: a simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious Roast Beef Reuben recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!

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