If you're a fan of the traditional Reuben, get ready to fall head over heels for this Roast Beef Reuben. Imagine layers of tender roast beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Russian dressing, all sandwiched between buttery, toasted rye bread. It’s hearty, savory, and packed with rich flavors that make every bite unforgettable.

This recipe was born out of a craving for something different yet comforting. I had leftover roast beef in the fridge and a loaf of fresh rye bread on the counter. What started as an experiment has become a new family favorite that’s requested almost weekly.

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

The Roast Beef Reuben is everything you love about the classic sandwich, but with a fresh, meaty twist. Whether you’re a Reuben enthusiast or a roast beef devotee, this sandwich is sure to impress.

Deliciously Unique: While the classic Reuben features corned beef, this version swaps in tender roast beef for a flavor that’s equally satisfying but slightly more familiar.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes of your time, you can whip up a restaurant-quality sandwich right at home.
Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover roast beef into something exciting and new.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re making lunch for one or feeding the whole family, the combination of warm, melty cheese and tangy dressing will have everyone asking for seconds.

Let’s dive into what makes this sandwich so special, starting with the key ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of the Roast Beef Reuben lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Each ingredient brings something essential to the table, creating a sandwich that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Rye Bread: Traditional for any Reuben, rye bread adds a slightly tangy, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. If you’re not a fan of rye, pumpernickel or sourdough are great alternatives.
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced roast beef is the star of this recipe. Use deli-sliced roast beef for convenience or leftover homemade roast beef for an extra-special touch.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and provides a mild, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and tangy sauerkraut.
Sauerkraut: This classic Reuben ingredient adds a tangy bite and a bit of crunch. Be sure to drain it well to avoid a soggy sandwich.
Russian Dressing: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, Russian dressing ties all the flavors together. If you can’t find it, Thousand Island dressing is a good substitute.
Butter: Buttering the bread before grilling ensures a golden, crispy crust that’s absolutely irresistible.

You’ll also need a skillet or griddle for cooking the sandwiches to perfection.

How to Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Creating the perfect Roast Beef Reuben is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to assemble and cook your sandwich like a pro:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by draining about ½ cup of sauerkraut thoroughly. This is key to avoiding excess moisture in your sandwich. Lay out your slices of rye bread and butter one side of each slice.

Step 2: Build the Sandwich

On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, spread 2 tablespoons of Russian dressing. Layer with a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by 4-6 ounces of roast beef, a small handful of sauerkraut, and another slice of cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula. The sandwich is ready when the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it in half. Serve hot with a pickle on the side or a handful of potato chips for the ultimate deli experience.

The total prep and cooking time is just 20 minutes, making this a quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Storage Options

While the Roast Beef Reuben is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some elements in advance or store leftovers if needed.

Leftovers: If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to refresh the crispiness.
Make-Ahead Components: You can prepare the Russian dressing and drain the sauerkraut ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Bread and Meat Storage: Keep your rye bread fresh by storing it in a bread box or a sealed bag. Roast beef should be stored in the fridge and used within 3-4 days.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of the Roast Beef Reuben lies in its versatility. Here are some ideas to customize this sandwich to suit your taste:

Meat Options: Swap out the roast beef for turkey, pastrami, or even leftover pot roast for a creative twist.
Cheese Choices: While Swiss cheese is traditional, provolone, Havarti, or even pepper jack can add a unique flavor profile.
Add Heat: Kick up the spice by mixing a little hot sauce or horseradish into the Russian dressing.
Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free bread to make this sandwich accessible for everyone.
Extra Toppings: Add a slice of tomato, some caramelized onions, or a handful of arugula for an added layer of flavor and texture.

The Roast Beef Reuben takes a beloved classic and transforms it into something new and exciting. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack, this sandwich is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in my kitchen!