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Crispy Reuben Sandwich Recipe with Homemade Russian Dressing

crispy reuben sandwich - featured image

A nostalgic and delicious Reuben sandwich featuring crispy rye bread, tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and a bright homemade Russian dressing. Perfect for lunch or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices sturdy rye bread (seeded rye preferred)
  • 1 lb (450 g) thinly sliced corned beef
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese
  • 1 cup (150 g) sauerkraut, drained and lightly squeezed
  • Butter, softened, for spreading on bread (unsalted preferred)
  • For the Russian Dressing:
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) ketchup
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) prepared horseradish
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) lemon juice
  • 1 tsp (5 g) paprika
  • Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Make the Russian Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and refrigerate.
  2. Prepare the Bread: Lay out the rye bread slices and spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.
  3. Assemble the Sandwiches: On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, spread about 1 tbsp of Russian dressing. Layer with 2 slices Swiss cheese, ¼ lb (113 g) corned beef, and ¼ cup (37 g) sauerkraut. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
  4. Heat the Skillet: Warm a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
  5. Cook the Sandwiches: Place sandwiches in skillet and press gently with spatula or sandwich press. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese melted. Adjust heat as needed.
  6. Check for Doneness: Ensure cheese is bubbly and corned beef warmed through. If bread browns too fast, lower heat and cover skillet briefly.
  7. Serve: Remove sandwiches, let rest for a minute, slice in half, and serve immediately with extra Russian dressing for dipping.

Notes

Drain and squeeze sauerkraut well to prevent sogginess. Use softened butter generously on bread for a crispy crust. Cook on medium heat to melt cheese without burning bread. Russian dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, substitute bread and cheese accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Reuben sandwich, homemade Russian dressing, corned beef sandwich, crispy rye bread, sauerkraut sandwich, easy lunch, deli sandwich