There's something irresistible about a perfectly crafted Roast Beef Reuben. The crunch of toasted rye bread, the creamy tang of the sauce, and the tender, savory roast beef come together in perfect harmony to create a sandwich that feels indulgent yet approachable.

I first fell in love with this recipe when I was experimenting with ways to elevate my lunchtime favorites. One bite of this hearty sandwich was enough to make it a permanent staple in my kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this sandwich a must-try.

Why You'll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

Get ready to discover your new favorite sandwich. The Roast Beef Reuben is not just a meal; it’s an experience that hits all the right notes—crunchy, savory, creamy, and tangy.

First, this sandwich is a breeze to assemble, making it ideal for busy days when you want something quick but satisfying. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy sandwich ready in minutes.

The bold flavors are perfectly balanced. The tender roast beef pairs beautifully with the creamy, slightly sweet dressing, while the tangy sauerkraut adds just the right amount of zing.

It’s also a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers. Whether you have some extra roast beef from last night’s dinner or a jar of sauerkraut waiting to be used, this recipe makes sure nothing goes to waste.

Lastly, this recipe is completely customizable. From the bread to the toppings, you can tweak it to suit your preferences while maintaining its signature taste.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of the Roast Beef Reuben lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component adds something special to create a sandwich that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Rye bread: Traditional rye bread is key for that classic Reuben taste. Its hearty texture and subtle tang complement the filling beautifully. If you prefer, you can use sourdough or multigrain bread as an alternative.

Roast beef: Choose thinly sliced roast beef for the best results. The meat should be tender and flavorful, enhancing the sandwich's rich and satisfying profile. If you’re making your own roast beef, aim for medium-rare for optimal tenderness.

Sauerkraut: This ingredient provides a delightful tanginess that cuts through the richness of the dressing and meat. Be sure to drain and lightly squeeze the sauerkraut to avoid soggy bread.

Swiss cheese: Creamy and slightly nutty, Swiss cheese melts beautifully, holding the sandwich together and adding a touch of luxury. You can substitute with Havarti or Gouda if desired.

Dressing: A creamy sauce is essential for a Reuben. A homemade mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a touch of pickle relish works wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite store-bought dressing if you’re short on time.

For this recipe, a nonstick skillet or panini press will ensure perfectly toasted bread and melty cheese, while a sharp knife will help you slice your sandwich cleanly.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Making a Roast Beef Reuben is as simple as layering your ingredients and giving the sandwich a quick toast. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preparing your dressing. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and a spoonful of pickle relish. Mix well and set aside. This dressing will be the flavorful glue that holds everything together.

Lay out two slices of rye bread. Spread a generous amount of the dressing on one side of each slice. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

Next, layer your sandwich. Start with a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a generous handful of sauerkraut, ensuring it’s evenly spread to cover the bread. Add a few slices of tender roast beef, then top it off with another slice of Swiss cheese.

Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread, dressing side down. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a small pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil.

Carefully place your sandwich in the skillet and press down gently with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.

Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing. This helps everything set, so you don’t lose any of that delicious filling.

Enjoy your Roast Beef Reuben warm, with an extra dollop of dressing on the side for dipping if you like.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, the components of this sandwich can be stored separately for easy assembly later.

Store the roast beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The dressing can be kept in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Sauerkraut will last even longer when refrigerated, as it’s naturally fermented.

Avoid assembling the sandwich ahead of time, as the sauerkraut and dressing can make the bread soggy. Instead, prepare all components in advance and toast the sandwich fresh when ready to eat.

Reheat any pre-made sandwiches in a skillet over low heat or in an oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to adjust it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Swap out the rye bread for sourdough, multigrain, or even a soft ciabatta roll for a different texture and flavor profile.

For a lighter twist, use turkey or chicken instead of roast beef. These leaner proteins pair just as well with the sauerkraut and dressing.

Add some extra crunch with a handful of fresh coleslaw or shredded cabbage in place of sauerkraut. The slight sweetness of coleslaw brings a unique twist to the sandwich.

If you prefer a spicier kick, stir a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into your dressing. It’s a small addition that packs a flavorful punch.

Finally, feel free to experiment with the cheese. While Swiss is traditional, Havarti, Gouda, or even sharp cheddar can add a new dimension to this classic sandwich.

However you make it, this Roast Beef Reuben is sure to become a beloved part of your recipe collection. Have fun experimenting and enjoy every savory, tangy, crispy bite!