Why You’ll Love this Classic Deli Reuben
If you’re craving comfort food with a perfect balance of flavors, this Classic Deli Reuben is about to become your new obsession. The combination of warm, buttery rye bread with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey melted mozzarella creates a sandwich that hits all the right notes.
I’m particularly fond of how the crisp, golden exterior gives way to that warm, savory interior.
And can we talk about the textural contrast? Crunchy toasted bread, tender meat, and that distinctive sauerkraut bite. Trust me, this isn’t just lunch—it’s a full sensory experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into something sublime.
What Ingredients are in Classic Deli Reuben?
Making a Reuben sandwich at home is surprisingly simple, and you only need a handful of ingredients to recreate this deli classic. The beauty of this sandwich lies in how these few ingredients work together to create something truly magnificent. The tangy sauerkraut balances perfectly with the rich corned beef, while the melty cheese brings everything together between two slices of rye bread that get deliciously crisp in the buttery skillet.
- 2 slices rye bread
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 2 ounces thinly sliced corned beef
- 2 ounces sauerkraut
- 1 slice mozzarella cheese
While traditional Reubens often call for Swiss cheese and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, this streamlined version uses mozzarella for its excellent melting properties.
Feel free to drain your sauerkraut if you prefer a less juicy sandwich, and make sure your corned beef is sliced thin enough to heat through quickly but thick enough to give you that satisfying bite.
And can I just say, the bread choice matters tremendously here—rye bread with its distinctive flavor is absolutely non-negotiable for an authentic Reuben experience.
How to Make this Classic Deli Reuben
Making this classic deli Reuben couldn’t be simpler, and it starts with heating a medium skillet over medium heat. While that’s warming up, take 1 tablespoon of softened butter and spread it evenly on one side of each of your 2 slices of rye bread. This butter is essential—it’s what gives your sandwich that gorgeous golden crust and rich flavor that reminds me of those perfect diner sandwiches.
Now for the assembly, which is where kitchen magic happens. Place one slice of bread in your skillet, buttered side down (can you hear that satisfying sizzle?). Working quickly, layer on 2 ounces of thinly sliced corned beef, followed by 2 ounces of sauerkraut, and top it with 1 slice of mozzarella cheese. The mozzarella mightn’t be traditional, but it melts beautifully, creating those irresistible cheese pulls we all secretly love.
Cap your creation with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing up. Cook the sandwich, turning once, until both sides are beautifully browned, the corned beef is warmed through, and that cheese is melted to perfection. It usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side, but trust your eyes—that golden-brown color doesn’t lie. For an outdoor cooking adventure, consider preparing this sandwich on an outdoor grill combo that offers versatility for both grilling and smoking foods.
A well-made Reuben demands to be eaten immediately, preferably sliced diagonally (which somehow makes it taste better, don’t ask me why). The contrast between the crispy, buttery exterior and the warm, savory interior creates a sandwich experience that’s hard to beat.
And if you’re like me, you might want a few extra napkins nearby—a good Reuben can get deliciously messy as all those flavors meld together. For a truly elevated breakfast version, consider using one of those luxury breakfast appliances that provide consistent cooking temperature for the perfect grilled sandwich every time.
Classic Deli Reuben Substitutions and Variations
While the classic Reuben sandwich is already a masterpiece of flavor, sometimes you might want to switch things up based on what’s in your fridge or your personal preferences.
Try Swiss or Gruyère instead of mozzarella for a more traditional flavor profile. Not a fan of corned beef? Pastrami works beautifully, or go with turkey for a lighter “Rachel” sandwich.
Kimchi can replace sauerkraut for a Korean-inspired twist, adding spicy complexity. And bread options? Marble rye creates a stunning visual, while pumpernickel adds earthy notes.
Want it vegetarian? Tempeh or mushrooms can stand in admirably for the meat.
What to Serve with Classic Deli Reuben
What could possibly complement the rich, savory goodness of a classic Reuben sandwich?
I’m partial to crispy dill pickle spears, their tangy crunch cutting through the sandwich’s richness. A side of potato chips—kettle-cooked for extra crunch—never disappoints, while a small bowl of coleslaw provides cool, creamy balance.
For heartier appetites, consider hot, crispy french fries or sweet potato fries with a sprinkle of sea salt.
A simple cup of tomato soup works wonderfully on chilly days, creating that perfect soup-and-sandwich combo we all crave when comfort food calls.
Final Thoughts
The Reuben sandwich stands as one of America’s greatest contributions to the culinary world, a perfect marriage of tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, melty cheese, and toasty rye bread.
I’m convinced there’s something magical about that first bite – the way the butter-crisped rye gives way to the warm, savory filling.
What makes this sandwich timeless? Perhaps it’s the simplicity of quality ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.
If you’re looking for another comfort food classic that brings ingredients together beautifully, consider trying a creamy casserole featuring tender chicken and nutritious broccoli.
Whether you’re making your first Reuben or your fiftieth, remember that patience pays off.
Let those edges get golden, wait for that cheese to melt completely. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
For another comforting meal option, try a hearty potato soup recipe that combines both pureed and diced potatoes for an interesting texture contrast.
