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Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Main Course
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 slices rye bread
  • 3-4 oz corned beef
  • 2 slices  Swiss cheese
  • ¼ cup sauerkraut (well-drained)
  • 1-2 tbsp Russian dressing
  • 1 tbsp butter

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prep Everything First
    Drain the sauerkraut well
    Press it with paper towels
    Preheat your skillet over medium heat
    Why this matters:
    Wet sauerkraut = soggy sandwich.
  2. Step 2: Build It the Right Way
    Layer like this:
    Bread
    Cheese
    Corned beef
    Sauerkraut
    Cheese
    Bread
    Yes—cheese on both sides.
    It keeps everything together and prevents sogginess.
  3. Step 3: Butter & Grill
    Spread butter on the outside of the bread
    Place in skillet
    Cook 3–4 minutes per side
    Press lightly with a spatula.
    Don’t smash it—you want structure, not a pancake.
    Look for:
    Golden brown crust
    Fully melted cheese
  4. Step 4: Rest, Then Slice
    Let it sit for 1–2 minutes.
    Then slice diagonally.
    (Somehow… it really does taste better that way.)