There's nothing quite like biting into a perfectly layered Roast Beef Reuben. The savory, tender roast beef pairs beautifully with tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all nestled between crispy slices of buttery rye bread. This hearty sandwich is a twist on the classic corned beef Reuben and is sure to become a family favorite.

I first discovered this variation during a local deli trip, and it immediately became a go-to comfort meal. It’s quick, easy, and satisfies those cravings for a warm, flavorful sandwich. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.

Why You'll Love This Roast Beef Reuben Recipe

Get ready to savor your new favorite sandwich. The Roast Beef Reuben is a flavor-packed meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.

First, the tender roast beef gives this sandwich a rich, meaty flavor that sets it apart from the traditional Reuben. It’s a perfect choice when you want a hearty, protein-packed meal.

The creamy, tangy Thousand Island dressing ties all the ingredients together. It adds a layer of sweetness and acidity that balances the savory flavors of the roast beef and Swiss cheese.

If you love crispy textures, you’ll adore the golden, buttery rye bread that gets perfectly toasted on the outside while staying soft and tender inside. The crunch makes each bite irresistible.

Best of all, this recipe comes together in minutes, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients Notes

This Roast Beef Reuben shines because of its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter.

Rye bread forms the foundation of this sandwich. Its slightly nutty, earthy flavor is the perfect partner for the savory filling. Opt for seeded rye for added texture, or go with unseeded if you prefer a smoother taste.

Roast beef is the star of the show here. Thinly sliced deli roast beef works wonderfully, but you can use leftover roast beef for an even more authentic, homemade touch.

Swiss cheese provides a mild, nutty creaminess that melts beautifully. Choose aged Swiss for a bolder flavor or a milder variety if you prefer something subtle.

Sauerkraut adds a bright, tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat. Be sure to drain it well to avoid soggy bread.

Thousand Island dressing ties everything together with its creamy texture and sweet-tangy flavor. You can use store-bought dressing or whip up your own with mayo, ketchup, and relish.

For cooking, you’ll need butter to achieve that golden, crispy crust on the rye bread. A cast-iron skillet or griddle is ideal for evenly browning the bread while melting the cheese to perfection.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Crafting the perfect Roast Beef Reuben is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a sandwich that’s sure to impress.

Begin by prepping your ingredients. Slice your rye bread if it isn’t pre-sliced, and pat your sauerkraut dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Lay out all your components for easy assembly.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. While it warms up, spread butter generously on one side of each slice of rye bread. The butter will give your sandwich its signature golden crust.

Place a slice of bread, butter-side down, on the skillet. Layer it with Swiss cheese, followed by a generous portion of roast beef. Top the beef with sauerkraut and a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing. Add another slice of Swiss cheese for extra creaminess before capping it with a second slice of bread, butter-side up.

Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula to help it brown evenly. You'll know it's ready when the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey.

Once cooked, transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and let it rest for a minute before slicing it in half. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Storage Options

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat your Roast Beef Reuben.

Store the cooked sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Wrap them in foil or parchment paper to keep them intact and prevent drying out.

For reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to warm the sandwich, pressing gently to restore the crispy exterior. Alternatively, reheat it in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

If you're working with prepped but uncooked sandwiches, assemble them up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best results.

Variations and Substitutions

The Roast Beef Reuben is a versatile recipe, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own.

For a spicier kick, add a layer of sliced pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sandwich. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the creamy dressing and Swiss cheese.

If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, swap it for coleslaw. The crunch and tang of coleslaw provide a different, but equally delicious, twist on the classic recipe.

Try experimenting with different cheeses. Provolone or sharp cheddar can add a unique flavor profile, though Swiss remains the traditional favorite.

To lighten things up, use whole-grain bread and low-fat cheese. You can also swap out the Thousand Island dressing for mustard to cut down on calories.

For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free bread. Rye flavors may be hard to replicate, but the sandwich will still be delicious with a hearty, gluten-free loaf.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out a variation, this Roast Beef Reuben is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy experimenting and creating your perfect sandwich!