There's something magical about the way a Reuben quesadilla blends rich, savory flavors into a crisp, golden shell. This fusion of classic deli flavors with the comforting simplicity of a quesadilla makes it an irresistible treat for any time of the day.
I first experimented with this recipe when looking for a fun twist on traditional sandwiches. The result was a dish so satisfying, it quickly became a household favorite. Whether you're making a quick lunch or a snack for a gathering, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit.
Why You'll Love This Reuben Quesadilla
Get ready to indulge in a flavor-packed delight that’s both easy to make and endlessly satisfying. These Reuben quesadillas are the perfect combination of tangy, cheesy, and savory goodness wrapped in a warm tortilla.
First, they're incredibly quick to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting them. Perfect for a busy weekday meal or a last-minute appetizer for guests.
The crispy tortilla shell provides the perfect contrast to the gooey, melted cheese and the flavorful filling inside. Every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes that’ll leave you craving more.
These quesadillas are also wonderfully versatile. You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s already in your fridge. Whether it’s for a picky eater or an adventurous foodie, this dish is easy to adapt.
Lastly, cleanup is a breeze. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing up. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore what makes these quesadillas so special.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Reuben quesadillas lies in their simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing out the distinctive flavors that make this recipe shine.
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas work best for this recipe. They’re easy to fold and crisp up beautifully when cooked. If you prefer a thinner shell, whole wheat tortillas are a great alternative.
Beef Pastrami or Smoked Turkey: This is the heart of the quesadilla. Opt for thinly sliced, high-quality deli meat that complements the other ingredients with its smoky and savory flavor.
Swiss Cheese: The creamy, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese pairs perfectly with the filling. If you’re not a fan of Swiss, mozzarella or provolone are great substitutes that melt beautifully.
Sauerkraut: This tangy, fermented ingredient adds a burst of flavor and balances the richness of the cheese. Be sure to drain and squeeze out any excess liquid to prevent soggy quesadillas.
Homemade Russian Dressing: A simple combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a touch of garlic powder works wonderfully here. It’s a creamy, tangy sauce that ties everything together.
You’ll also need a large skillet or griddle for cooking, ensuring your quesadillas get evenly crisp without sticking.
How To Make This Reuben Quesadilla

Making these Reuben quesadillas is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success every time.
Start by preparing your ingredients. Lay out your tortillas, slice your deli meat, and shred the cheese. If you’re making homemade Russian dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, and a pinch of garlic powder in a small bowl.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. While the pan warms up, assemble your quesadillas. Spread a thin layer of Russian dressing over one side of each tortilla. This will act as a flavor base.
On one half of the tortilla, layer the sliced pastrami or turkey, a generous handful of Swiss cheese, and a small mound of sauerkraut. Be careful not to overstuff, as this makes flipping the quesadilla tricky.
Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal the edges. Add a small drizzle of oil or a pat of butter to the heated skillet, and place the quesadilla in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy, with the cheese fully melted.
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Slice each quesadilla into wedges before serving, and enjoy them hot with a side of Russian dressing for dipping.
Storage Options
These quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh, but they store surprisingly well if you have leftovers. Proper storage ensures they remain flavorful and delicious for another meal.
Allow the quesadillas to cool completely before storing. Wrap each one tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep them from drying out. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the quesadillas. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.
Reheating is simple: place the quesadilla in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, until heated through and crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tortillas soggy.
Variations and Substitutions
This Reuben quesadilla recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your tastes or dietary needs with ease.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead. These ingredients provide a hearty, umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese and sauerkraut.
For a spicier twist, mix a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the Russian dressing. It adds a kick of heat that balances the creamy and tangy elements.
Experiment with different cheeses. While Swiss is traditional, sharp cheddar or creamy Havarti can offer a new flavor profile that complements the other ingredients.
Add a touch of crunch by including thinly sliced pickles in the filling. They bring an extra layer of tang and texture that works brilliantly in this dish.
No sauerkraut on hand? Thinly sliced cabbage sautéed with a splash of vinegar is a fantastic substitute that mimics the tangy notes of sauerkraut.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your quesadillas. The recipe serves as a base, but the possibilities are endless. Have fun experimenting and making it your own!
PrintReuben Quesadillas Recipe
This Reuben Quesadillas recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, featuring corned beef, sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and a creamy dressing, all packed in golden, crispy tortillas. Perfect for quick lunches or dinners, these quesadillas are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Fusion
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked corned beef, thinly sliced or shredded
- ½ cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Place one tortilla on the skillet. Spread 1 tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing evenly across the surface.
- Layer half of the Swiss cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut on one half of the tortilla.
- Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining ingredients.
- Slice into wedges and serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to use a low-fat cheese or dressing if preferred.
- Add a pinch of caraway seeds for extra flavor.
- Pair with a side of salad or fries for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 760mg
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