This Ina Garten Reuben Sandwich Recipe is a crispy and savory recipe, which uses sliced corned beef and sauerkraut. It’s a no-fuss take on the classic, ready in about 20 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Reuben Sandwich Recipe Ingredients
- 8 slices rye bread
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ pound sliced corned beef
- ½ pound Swiss cheese, sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Optional:
- Dill pickles (for serving)
- Potato chips or coleslaw (as sides)

How To Make Ina Garten Reuben Sandwich Recipe
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Prep the ingredients:
Drain the sauerkraut by placing it in a colander and pressing out excess moisture. Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. -
Assemble the sandwiches:
On the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices, spread Thousand Island dressing. Layer each with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Top with remaining slices, buttered side facing out. -
Grill the sandwiches:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches on the hot surface and grill for 3–4 minutes per side, until bread is golden and cheese is melted. Press lightly with a spatula for even browning. -
Serve hot:
Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately. Pair with pickles, chips, or slaw for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips
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Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Yes, pastrami works well and gives a smoky twist to the sandwich. -
How to keep the sandwich from getting soggy:
Make sure the sauerkraut is well-drained and pressed dry before layering. -
Best bread for a Reuben sandwich:
Rye bread is traditional and adds the best flavor, but marble rye is also a great option. -
Can I use a panini press?
Yes, a panini press is perfect for evenly toasted Reubens with melted cheese. -
How to reheat a Reuben sandwich:
Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven for the crispiest results.
What To Serve With Reuben Sandwiches
This hearty sandwich pairs well with crunchy and tangy sides:
- Classic dill pickles
- Potato chips
- Coleslaw
- Pickled red onions
- Creamy potato salad

How To Store Reuben Sandwiches
Refrigerate:
Wrap leftovers in foil or place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Freeze:
It’s not ideal to freeze assembled Reuben sandwiches due to moisture, but you can freeze the individual components separately.
Reuben Sandwich Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 620 per sandwich
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I make Reuben sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead, but cook just before serving to keep them crisp.
What can I use instead of Thousand Island dressing?
Russian dressing or a simple mix of mayo and ketchup can work in a pinch.
Is a Reuben sandwich served hot or cold?
It’s traditionally served hot and grilled so the cheese melts and the bread crisps up.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based deli meat.
Why is my sandwich falling apart?
Make sure fillings are evenly layered and use firm rye bread for better structure.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Chicken Piccata Recipe
- Ina Garten Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
- Ina Garten Salmon With Lentils Recipe
Ina Garten Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes10
minutes620
kcalThis crispy, melty Reuben sandwich with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing is ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
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8 slices rye bread
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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½ pound sliced corned beef
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½ pound Swiss cheese, sliced
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1 cup sauerkraut, drained
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½ cup Thousand Island dressing
Directions
- Drain and prep: Drain sauerkraut well. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Assemble: Spread dressing on the unbuttered side of 4 slices. Layer with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Top with the other 4 slices, buttered side out.
- Grill: Heat a skillet over medium. Grill sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side until golden and melted.
- Serve: Cut in half and serve hot with pickles or chips.
