Why You’ll Love this Classic New York Reuben
When hunger strikes and nothing but comfort food will do, this Classic New York Reuben sandwich steps up to save the day. The combination of warm corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors between two perfectly toasted slices of rye bread.
What makes this version special? It’s the simplicity. Just a handful of quality ingredients, a hot skillet, and five minutes of your time.
No fancy equipment needed. The buttery, crisp exterior gives way to that gooey center we all crave. Comfort food perfection, wouldn’t you agree?
What Ingredients are in Classic New York Reuben?
The magic of a Classic New York Reuben sandwich lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients, each one playing an essential role in creating that iconic deli flavor.
There’s something almost meditative about laying out these simple components and watching them transform into something far greater than the sum of their parts.
Ready to stock your kitchen for Reuben success?
- 2 slices of rye bread
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 2 ounces thinly sliced corned beef
- 2 ounces sauerkraut
- 1 slice mozzarella cheese
While traditional Reubens often feature Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, this streamlined New York version keeps things deliciously simple with mozzarella for that perfect melt factor.
The quality of your ingredients matters tremendously here. Look for fresh bakery rye with visible caraway seeds, well-drained sauerkraut (too much moisture ruins the crisp exterior), and the best corned beef you can find.
Want to take it up a notch? Some delis add a schmear of thousand island dressing, though our classic recipe stands perfectly delicious without it.
Isn’t it amazing how five basic ingredients can create such an iconic sandwich?
How to Make this Classic New York Reuben
Making a Classic New York Reuben couldn’t be more straightforward, yet the results are absolutely mouthwatering. Start by heating a medium skillet over medium heat—this temperature sweet spot guarantees your sandwich gets that perfect golden-brown exterior without burning.
While your pan is warming up, take 1 tablespoon of softened butter and spread it generously on one side of each of your 2 slices of rye bread. The butter is your secret weapon for achieving that irresistible crispy, golden crust that makes biting into a Reuben so satisfying.
Now comes the assembly, which is where the magic happens. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in your heated skillet. This is your foundation. Layer 2 ounces of thinly sliced corned beef on top, followed by 2 ounces of sauerkraut (make sure it’s well-drained—nobody wants a soggy Reuben!), and finally, crown your creation with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
The cheese acts as delicious glue that will hold everything together once melted. Top it all with your second slice of bread, buttered side facing up, ready to meet the hot pan when you flip.
Cook your sandwich with patience, turning just once when the bottom bread is beautifully browned, about 3-4 minutes depending on your stove. After flipping, press down gently with a spatula—hear that satisfying sizzle? That’s the sound of culinary perfection in the making.
Continue cooking until both sides are golden brown, the corned beef is heated through, and the cheese has melted into a gooey blanket that hugs all the ingredients together. Isn’t it remarkable how something so simple can bring such joy?
For an elevated outdoor dining experience, consider preparing your Reuben on one of those premium outdoor grills that offer precise temperature control for the perfect sear.
Serve immediately while hot, perhaps with a crisp pickle spear on the side for that authentic deli experience.
Classic New York Reuben Substitutions and Variations
While we’ve covered the traditional approach to this iconic sandwich, let’s explore some creative twists that’ll breathe new life into your Reuben game.
Try swapping corned beef with pastrami or turkey for a delightful flavor shift. Not a fan of mozzarella? Swiss cheese is actually more authentic, or go bold with Gruyère for nutty depth.
Marble rye offers visual appeal, and pumpernickel brings earthier notes.
For the adventurous, Russian dressing can replace traditional sauce, and kimchi makes a tangy alternative to sauerkraut.
Vegetarians might enjoy tempeh or seitan instead of meat—still hearty, completely satisfying.
What to Serve with Classic New York Reuben
Four perfect side dishes can transform your Reuben from a standalone sandwich into a memorable meal.
I’m partial to crispy dill pickle spears, their tangy crunch cutting through the richness of that melted mozzarella. A small bowl of potato salad works wonders too—cold, creamy, and substantial without stealing the show.
For something lighter, coleslaw provides a revitalizing contrast. Not the soupy kind, mind you, but one with just enough dressing to coat the cabbage.
And don’t forget a handful of kettle-cooked chips for that salty crunch we all crave.
Final Thoughts
The perfect Reuben sandwich isn’t just a meal—it’s a New York institution that deserves your full attention.
When that buttery rye bread meets the savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty mozzarella, something magical happens.
I’ve shared the basics, but don’t be afraid to make it your own.
Maybe you prefer Swiss cheese instead of mozzarella (quite traditional, actually).
Perhaps you want to add Russian dressing for authentic flavor.
