There's something undeniably comforting about a well-made Roast Beef Reuben. Layers of tender, flavorful roast beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted cheese, and a creamy, savory dressing, all held together by perfectly toasted bread—this sandwich is a feast for the senses. It's the ultimate combination of textures and flavors, guaranteed to leave you satisfied.

I first came across this recipe while experimenting with ways to elevate a simple sandwich into something special. With just a few thoughtful tweaks and substitutions, this hearty Reuben has become a lunch and dinner staple in my home. Let’s dive into how you can make this crowd-pleasing classic.

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

Get ready to fall head over heels for this savory masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or treating yourself to a cozy meal at home, this Roast Beef Reuben delivers on every front.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you can whip up a sandwich that tastes like it came from your favorite deli.

It’s also packed with bold, satisfying flavors. The combination of roast beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese creates a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy. Every bite is a harmony of deliciousness.

This recipe is versatile enough to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer a classic presentation or want to tweak it with your favorite condiments and sides, it’s endlessly customizable.

Best of all, it’s filling and hearty. Paired with a side salad or crispy fries, this sandwich makes for a complete and comforting meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Roast Beef Reuben lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this sandwich unforgettable.

The roast beef is the star of the show. Look for thinly sliced, high-quality roast beef with a rich, savory flavor. You can use freshly cooked roast beef or deli-sliced versions depending on your preference.

Sauerkraut adds that signature tangy note that makes a Reuben stand out. Drain it well before using to prevent your sandwich from becoming soggy. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can rinse it lightly under cold water.

Swiss cheese provides the perfect creamy, slightly nutty counterpoint to the other ingredients. Its meltability is unmatched, making every bite indulgent.

For the dressing, a combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, and finely chopped pickles creates a creamy, tangy spread that ties everything together. Feel free to adjust the proportions to suit your taste.

Choose a hearty bread like rye or sourdough to hold all the ingredients. The bread should be sturdy enough to handle toasting and the sandwich’s generous filling.

You’ll also need a skillet or grill pan to achieve that beautifully golden, crisp exterior.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Making this sandwich is a straightforward process that comes together in just a few simple steps.

Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and finely chopped pickles. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Next, drain and prepare your sauerkraut. If it’s very wet, use a paper towel to gently pat it dry. This ensures your sandwich stays crisp and flavorful.

Lay out your bread slices and spread a generous layer of the dressing on each piece. On one side, layer the roast beef, followed by the sauerkraut and a slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, dressing side down.

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan and let it melt. Carefully place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula. The goal is to achieve a crisp, golden crust while melting the cheese.

Once both sides are perfectly toasted and the cheese is gooey, remove the sandwich from the pan. Let it rest for a minute before slicing it in half for easy handling.

Serve warm with your favorite side dish and enjoy every delicious bite.

Storage Options

While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time for convenience.

The dressing can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This saves time when assembling the sandwiches.

If you have leftover roast beef or sauerkraut, store them separately in the fridge. Roast beef should be kept in a sealed container and consumed within three days, while sauerkraut can last a bit longer if stored properly.

Reheating the sandwich is simple. Warm it in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side to maintain its crisp exterior and melty interior. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of the Roast Beef Reuben lies in its adaptability. Here are some ways to make it your own.

For a lighter option, swap out Swiss cheese for a reduced-fat variety or a mild mozzarella. It will still provide that satisfying meltiness without the extra calories.

Experiment with different types of bread. Multigrain or whole wheat bread can add a nutty flavor and a bit more texture, while brioche creates a richer, softer bite.

If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt as a base for the dressing. Add the ketchup and pickles as usual for the same creamy tang.

Want a little extra kick? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy twist.

No sauerkraut on hand? Thinly sliced, pickled cucumbers or shredded coleslaw can provide a similar tangy crunch.

With this Roast Beef Reuben, you have endless opportunities to tailor the recipe to your tastes. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.