There's nothing quite like the comforting flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich – the tangy sauerkraut, melty cheese, savory corned beef, and creamy Thousand Island dressing. Now imagine all that goodness packed into a crispy, golden quesadilla! Reuben Quesadillas are the ultimate fusion dish, bringing together the best of deli-style flavors and Tex-Mex comfort.

I first tried this twist on a traditional Reuben while brainstorming quick dinner ideas that didn’t require a trip to the store. With just a few pantry staples, this became an instant hit with my family. It's a perfect weeknight meal – quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. Let me show you how to make this irresistible dish!

Why You’ll Love These Reuben Quesadillas

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's as easy to make as it is delicious. These Reuben Quesadillas are about to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

First and foremost, this recipe combines the best parts of two classic cuisines. It’s like having the flavor-packed indulgence of a Reuben sandwich with the ease and crispiness of a quesadilla. Perfect for when you're craving something unique yet familiar.

You'll also love how quick and fuss-free it is. From start to finish, these quesadillas come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a casual lunch.

Not to mention, they’re super customizable. Whether you want to keep it traditional or experiment with new flavors, this dish is a canvas for creativity.

Lastly, cleanup is a breeze. With minimal dishes and simple ingredients, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Reuben Quesadillas lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's what you'll need to make this dish shine:

Corned Beef: Thinly sliced deli corned beef works beautifully here. You can also use leftover corned beef from a previous meal, chopped or shredded.
Swiss Cheese: Melty and mild, Swiss cheese is a must-have for that classic Reuben taste. If you prefer a sharper flavor, you can use Gruyere or even a mix of cheeses.
Sauerkraut: This tangy, fermented cabbage adds a bright and unique flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Make sure to drain it well to avoid soggy quesadillas.
Thousand Island Dressing: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, this dressing acts as the "sauce" in these quesadillas. You can also use Russian dressing for a more savory twist.
Flour Tortillas: Choose medium or large flour tortillas that are sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing.

Optional Additions:

A sprinkle of caraway seeds for that rye bread flavor.
A handful of chopped pickles for extra tang and crunch.

You'll also need a large skillet or griddle for cooking and a spatula to help flip the quesadillas.

How to Make These Reuben Quesadillas

Making Reuben Quesadillas is as simple as layering ingredients, cooking, and enjoying. Here's how to do it step by step:

Prepare the Sauerkraut
Start by draining and pressing your sauerkraut to remove as much liquid as possible. Excess moisture can make your quesadillas soggy, so this step is key!
Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing over one side. Then, layer Swiss cheese, corned beef, and a portion of the drained sauerkraut. Top with another tortilla or fold the tortilla in half if using smaller ones.
Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or cooking spray. Place the assembled quesadilla in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
Slice and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and let it rest for a minute. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice it into wedges. Serve warm with extra Thousand Island dressing or pickles on the side.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Reuben Quesadillas to keep them tasting great.

Refrigerator: Place cooked quesadilla slices in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze assembled (but uncooked) quesadillas by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen when ready.
Reheating: For the crispiest results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. You can also use an oven or air fryer to revive the crunch.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Low-Carb Option: Swap the tortillas for low-carb wraps or make a Reuben-inspired "bowl" with the fillings.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for a hearty, meat-free version.
Spicy Kick: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy upgrade.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Mini Quesadillas: Use smaller tortillas for bite-sized appetizers, perfect for parties or game day.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – the possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe!

Reuben Quesadillas are a delightful way to mix up your meal routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or whipping up a quick snack for yourself, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try, and don't forget to share your delicious creations!