# How to Make a Classic Reuben Sandwich

- Link: https://lifeandwork.blog/cooking-how-to-make-a-classic-reuben-sandwich/
- Published: 2026-09-28T06:17:17-05:00
- Author: Bert Swope

When you think of classic sandwiches, you almost always think of Reuben. It is probably
the most famous of all the great American bread and perhaps the most popular American
food in the world. However, if you haven’t had a chance to try a Reuben yet, you’re
missing out on one of the finest foods in the world. Although it may seem strange
to include something like this in a cooking recipe, you must look at it realistically.
Making a Reuben is definitely not a difficult task.

For starters, this is definitely one of the simplest sandwiches in existence. The
name pretty much tells you what it is: a Reuben sandwich is made with a slice of
bread. In fact, making a Reuben sandwich is all about bread. And there are many 
recipes for it. However, you can make any Reuben you want by adding your choice 
of ingredients, cheese, and sauce. Below, we’ll take a closer look at that second
ingredient, the cheese.

As you probably know, Reubens are mostly made with a hard, flatbread slice. The 
cheese comes with it. So you’re already getting a head start on the “cheese” category.
Since it’s the main ingredient, you might as well get used to eating it.

Some of the things you can do while making this simple dish are more or less self-
explanatory. The other stuff you need to get ready for this quick recipe is some
type of sandwich fillings. You can choose between nice ham salad, the classic deli
sandwich fillings, or of course, the “real deal,” Reubens themselves.

There is no real secret to how to make a classic Reuben sandwich. Basically, you
just need to make sure the bread is toasted, and the cheese is on it. Then you add
any other type of fillings you want (ham, tuna, chicken, salad olives, etc.)

Another thing you have to remember when learning how to make a classic Reuben sandwich
is that the sandwich should be served with the source of the bread on top. It may
seem counter-intuitive, but you’d be surprised at how many people leave the bread
on the side. Usually, the cheese will go on first, followed by the other ingredients.
But, again, this is something else that will confuse beginners, so be careful!

Finally, there are a few final things you need to think about when learning how 
to make a classic Reuben sandwich. First, make sure the sandwich is sliced in half
because only then does the bread come out of the pocket intact. Also, try and keep
the knife’s tip away from the bread while you are slicing it. You don’t want your
sandwich’s crust to be messed up if it touches the knife. Finally, when folding 
the sandwich, it is best to use a napkin or an unbuttoned bank.

If you follow these simple steps, then you are already off to a good start. Of course,
you could add some other ingredients to the mix if you wish, but we are not about
to discuss those here. For example, you could sandwich meat in between the deli 
meatballs and then cheese over the top. Another popular sandwich topping is Swiss
make-up. These add a lot of fun to the classic Reuben sandwich. Whatever you do,
let your imagination run wild because the more you put into it, the more you’ll 
get out of it!

The classic Reuben can also be served with a variety of condiments. A really nice
touch can be to place a nice salad in addition to the sandwich. This is an especially
nice option during summer since salads can get a little messy. You can even go the
extra mile and put some fresh, cut vegetables in the center of the sandwich as well.
Anything that will help make the classic Reuben a better experience will be a good
choice.

As you can see, there are many ways to make a classic Reuben sandwich. It depends
on what you are trying to accomplish: to provide the meat and bread with just the
right amount of salty, sweet, and meaty flavors. Changing up the recipe a bit will
most times work wonders in bringing out the best that there is. And who knows?

Whether you have the time or not, it is always fun to learn how to make a classic
Reuben sandwich. Especially since the sandwich has been around for so long, there
are plenty of different variations out there. And with the number of variations 
that there are, you are sure to find one that will satisfy your taste buds. So start
thinking up new ways to make a classic Reuben sandwich and discover the great food
that this popular sandwich has to offer.

## **Reuben Sandwich** Recipe

The Reuben is a grilled sandwich filled with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut,
and Russian dressing. It’s rich, savory, and a true deli favorite.

### Ingredients (U.S. and Metric)

| Ingredient | U.S. Measure | Metric Measure | 
| Corned Beef | 4 slices | 100g | 
| Swiss Cheese | 2 slices | 50g | 
| Sauerkraut | 1/4 cup | 60g | 
| Russian Dressing | 2 tablespoons | 30g | 
| Rye Bread | 2 slices | 2 slices (~60g) | 
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | 15g |

### Directions:

 1. **Butter the Bread**: Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
 2. **Assemble the Sandwich**: On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer corned beef,
    sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing. Top with the other slice of bread,
    butter side out.
 3. **Grill**: Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, until
    the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
 4. **Serve**: Slice diagonally and serve hot.

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