Ari’s Classic Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich
If you’ve ever stepped into a classic New York deli, you know there’s nothing quite like a perfectly made Reuben sandwich. That crispy, buttery rye bread, piled high with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Russian dressing—it’s a flavor explosion in every bite! This sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, and trust me, once you make it at home, you’ll never want to settle for anything less than this deli-style perfection.
Why You’ll Love Ari’s Classic Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich
Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that pack a big flavor punch.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes—perfect for busy days.
Customizable: Swap corned beef for pastrami, or try turkey for a “Rachel” sandwich.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with meat and cheese lovers alike!
Ingredients
Ingredients in Ari’s Classic Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich
Rye Bread: The key to a true deli-style Reuben. Its slightly tangy flavor complements the rich ingredients.
Corned Beef: Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor—this is the heart of the sandwich.
Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, nutty richness.
Sauerkraut: Brings that essential tangy crunch that balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
Russian Dressing: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet—this sauce ties everything together.
Butter: For that perfectly golden, crispy bread.
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
Drain the sauerkraut well and pat it dry with a paper towel. This prevents the sandwich from getting soggy.
Butter the Bread
Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. This will give you that golden, crispy crust.
Assemble the Sandwich
Place a slice of Swiss cheese on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread. Layer on the corned beef, sauerkraut, and a generous drizzle of Russian dressing. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese and the second slice of bread (buttered side facing out).
Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the sandwich in half, serve warm, and enjoy every melty, crispy, tangy bite!
Notes
Servings: 1
Calories per serving: Approximately 650 kcal
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
How to Serve Ari’s Classic Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich
Pickles: A crunchy dill pickle on the side is a must!
Potato Chips: Classic deli-style chips pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the sandwich.
Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing, slightly sweet contrast to the tangy sauerkraut.
French Fries: Because, well, fries make everything better!
Additional Tips
Use a panini press for an extra-crispy, evenly toasted sandwich.
If you don’t have Russian dressing, mix mayo, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of hot sauce.
Toast the bread lightly before assembling for an extra crunch.
For a lighter version, use turkey instead of corned beef (this variation is called a Rachel sandwich).
Make sure to cook on medium-low heat—this allows the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
FAQ’s
1. What’s the difference between a Reuben and a Rachel sandwich?
A Reuben is made with corned beef, while a Rachel swaps it for turkey. Both are delicious!
2. Can I use Thousand Island dressing instead of Russian dressing?
Yes! Thousand Island is slightly sweeter but works well as a substitute.
3. How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Drain and pat the sauerkraut dry before adding it to the sandwich. This keeps everything crisp.
4. What’s the best cheese for a Reuben?
Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can also try provolone or Havarti for a twist.
5. Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Absolutely! Pastrami adds a smoky, peppery flavor that works great in a Reuben.
6. Do I need to toast the bread before assembling?
Not necessary, but lightly toasting the bread before assembling can help keep it extra crisp.
7. What type of rye bread is best?
Marble rye or seeded rye bread works best for that authentic deli flavor.
8. Can I make this sandwich in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
9. How do I store leftover sandwiches?
Reubens are best eaten fresh, but you can wrap leftovers in foil and reheat in a skillet for a few minutes.
10. Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes! Swap the corned beef for grilled mushrooms or tempeh for a delicious meat-free alternative.
Conclusion
Ari’s Classic Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich is a timeless favorite that delivers big on flavor. With its crispy rye bread, melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and savory corned beef, it’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or just a comfort food craving, this Reuben is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate deli-style sandwich—right in your own kitchen!
PrintAri’s Classic Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich
Ari’s Classic Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich is a timeless favorite, packed with layers of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Russian dressing, all grilled between slices of buttery rye bread. This indulgent sandwich delivers the perfect balance of crunch, savory flavors, and melty goodness in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Deli
Ingredients
– 8 slices rye bread
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced
– 8 slices Swiss cheese
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1/2 cup Russian dressing
Instructions
1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
3. Place 4 slices of bread, butter-side down, on the skillet.
4. Layer each slice with a slice of Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut, and a generous amount of Russian dressing.
5. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese and a second slice of rye bread, butter-side up.
6. Grill each sandwich for 3-5 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted.
7. Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve warm.
Notes
– For a crispier crust, use a cast-iron skillet and press down on the sandwich while grilling.
– Swap Russian dressing for Thousand Island if needed.
– Serve with a side of pickles or coleslaw for the full deli experience.
– If your sauerkraut is too wet, squeeze out excess liquid before adding it to the sandwich.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
