There’s something magical about biting into a warm, melty Roast Beef Reuben sandwich. The tangy sauerkraut, gooey Swiss cheese, and savory roast beef come together between crisp slices of buttery rye bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

I discovered this twist on the classic Reuben while searching for ways to use leftover roast beef, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Whether you're whipping it up for a quick lunch or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Let’s dive into why this hearty sandwich deserves a spot on your table.

Why You'll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this incredible Roast Beef Reuben. It’s more than just a meal – it’s a flavor-packed experience.

First and foremost, this recipe is ridiculously easy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for when you need something satisfying in a pinch.

You’ll also love the delicious balance of flavors. The salty roast beef pairs beautifully with the tangy kick of sauerkraut and the creamy richness of Thousand Island dressing.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers. If you have extra roast beef from a previous meal, this is the perfect way to breathe new life into it.

Finally, this sandwich is crowd-pleasing and versatile. Whether you're making it for yourself or serving it to friends, everyone will appreciate the bold flavors and satisfying crunch of perfectly toasted rye bread.

Ready to get started? Let’s talk about the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Roast Beef Reuben lies in the perfect balance of its ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in building the sandwich’s signature flavors.

Rye Bread: Traditional Reubens are made with rye bread, and its earthy, slightly tangy flavor is the perfect base for this sandwich. Marble rye adds an extra layer of visual appeal.
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced roast beef is the star of the show. Whether it’s leftover roast beef or deli-sliced, look for high-quality beef with plenty of flavor.
Swiss Cheese: Melty, nutty Swiss cheese is a classic Reuben staple. It adds a creamy element that ties everything together.
Sauerkraut: Tangy, slightly crunchy sauerkraut provides the signature zing in every bite. Be sure to drain it well to avoid soggy bread.
Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy, tangy sauce is the perfect finishing touch. You can use store-bought, but homemade dressing takes this sandwich to the next level.
Butter: For that golden, crispy crust, you’ll need butter to spread on the outside of the bread before grilling.

No special equipment is required for this recipe – just a skillet or griddle and a spatula to flip your sandwiches.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Creating this delicious Roast Beef Reuben is straightforward and fun. Let’s walk through the steps together.

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering and prepping everything. Drain your sauerkraut, slice your roast beef thinly if needed, and have your Swiss cheese ready. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a slice of rye bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing on the other side. Layer with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, roast beef, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing up.
Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Use a spatula to press down gently as they cook for even browning.
Serve Immediately: Slice the sandwiches in half and serve warm. They’re perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with potato chips, a pickle spear, or a simple salad.

This entire process takes about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal meal for busy days.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare with this sandwich!), here’s how to store and reheat them.

Refrigerate: Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freeze: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze assembled (but uncooked) sandwiches. Wrap them in foil and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
Reheat: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. This restores the crispy texture of the bread while warming the fillings. Microwaving works in a pinch but may leave the bread soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about the Roast Beef Reuben is its versatility. Here are some creative twists you can try:

Turkey Reuben (Rachel): Swap the roast beef for turkey for a lighter variation often called a "Rachel."
Spicy Reuben: Add a kick by mixing a little hot sauce into the Thousand Island dressing or using spicy mustard instead.
Vegetarian Reuben: Replace the roast beef with grilled mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a plant-based option.
Different Cheeses: While Swiss is classic, you can experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even a smoky Gouda.
Homemade Sauerkraut: If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own sauerkraut for a fresher, more customized flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

There you have it – the ultimate Roast Beef Reuben Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself, this sandwich is guaranteed to satisfy. Let me know how yours turns out!