There's something about a well-made Roast Beef Reuben that feels both comforting and indulgent. Layers of tender roast beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and melty cheese sandwiched between crispy, golden slices of bread—it’s a flavor combination that’s hard to resist.
This version of the classic Reuben has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to casual gatherings. Once you see how easy it is to whip up, it might just become one of your favorites too.
Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef Reuben
Get ready to add this Roast Beef Reuben to your list of go-to recipes. It’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare.
First off, the balance of flavors is unbeatable. The savory roast beef pairs perfectly with the tangy bite of sauerkraut and the creamy richness of the dressing, all wrapped up in warm, crispy bread.
This recipe is also highly versatile. Whether you want to use deli-sliced beef or leftovers from a roast dinner, it adapts beautifully to what you have on hand.
Lastly, it’s a quick meal option that doesn’t sacrifice quality. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a gourmet sandwich that feels like it came straight from a deli.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Roast Beef Reuben lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds something special, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Roast beef is the star of the show. Opt for thinly sliced, high-quality beef for the best results. Leftover roast works beautifully, but deli-sliced roast beef is a convenient option if you’re in a hurry.
Sauerkraut adds that essential tangy punch. Be sure to drain it well before adding it to the sandwich to avoid making the bread soggy.
For the cheese, Swiss is the classic choice. Its mild, nutty flavor complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. If Swiss isn’t your favorite, try a mild mozzarella or provolone.
The dressing ties everything together. A creamy, slightly tangy blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a touch of spices does the trick. You can customize it with a pinch of paprika or a squeeze of lemon for extra depth.
Finally, the bread is key. Rye bread is traditional, but any hearty, crusty bread will work. Be sure to butter the outside generously for that golden, crispy finish.
How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Crafting this delicious sandwich is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof meal.
Start by preparing your dressing. In a small bowl, mix equal parts mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth. Add a pinch of garlic powder and a dash of paprika for a hint of warmth and flavor.
Next, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. While it warms up, assemble your sandwiches. Lay out the bread slices and spread a thin layer of the dressing on one side of each slice.
On one slice of each sandwich, layer the roast beef, a generous handful of sauerkraut (well-drained), and a slice or two of Swiss cheese. Top with the other slice of bread, dressing side down.
Butter the outsides of the sandwiches generously. Place them in the skillet, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure even browning. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese has melted.
Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing them in half. This helps the layers stay intact when you cut into them.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), this Roast Beef Reuben stores well with a few simple steps.
Wrap any remaining sandwiches tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat, pressing gently until the bread crisps up again and the filling is warmed through.
For longer storage, you can prepare the components separately. Store the roast beef, sauerkraut, and dressing in individual containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Assemble and grill the sandwiches fresh for the best results.
Variations and Substitutions
This Roast Beef Reuben is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own with a few tweaks.
Swap out the cheese for a more robust flavor. Aged cheddar or gouda can add an extra layer of richness.
Experiment with the dressing by adding a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a splash of pickle juice for added tanginess.
If rye bread isn’t your favorite, try sourdough or even a sturdy whole wheat loaf. Just ensure it’s hearty enough to hold up to the filling.
Looking for a lighter option? Use whole-grain wraps instead of bread to turn this into a handheld wrap sandwich.
Finally, you can add a touch of heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a few slices of pickled jalapeño.
This Roast Beef Reuben is a recipe that invites creativity. Play with the ingredients and make it your own—you might just discover your new favorite version!
PrintRoast Beef Reuben Recipe
Make this Roast Beef Reuben recipe with savory sliced roast beef, tangy dressing, Swiss cheese, and toasted rye bread for the perfect sandwich. A quick, easy, and delicious meal that satisfies every craving!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 8 slices rye bread
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup coleslaw
- ½ cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Spread a thin layer of dressing on one side of each bread slice.
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the dressing on half of the bread slices.
- Layer with roast beef and a generous scoop of coleslaw.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, dressing-side down.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon butter.
- Grill each sandwich in the skillet, pressing lightly, for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
- Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitute Russian dressing with Thousand Island if preferred.
- Serve with a side of pickles or baked fries for a complete meal.
- Adjust grilling time based on bread thickness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
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