The Reuben is a classic American deli food that still steals the hearts of food enthusiasts everywhere. With the ideal blend of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, all grilled between two slices of rye bread, the Reuben sandwich is comfort food at its best.

In this article, we’ll dive into the history of the Reuben sandwich, its ingredients, how to make it at home, popular variations, and why it remains one of the most beloved sandwiches in the world.

The History of the Reuben Sandwich
The exact origin of the Reuben sandwich is debated, but two popular stories stand out.

Omaha Version
One legend says that the Reuben sandwich was invented in the 1920s by Reuben Kulakofsky, an Omaha, Nebraska grocer. Legend has it that Kulakofsky created the sandwich for his poker friends at the Blackstone Hotel. It became popular and a menu favorite in no time.

New York Version
Another theory suggests that the sandwich was created in New York City by Arnold Reuben, the owner of Reuben’s Delicatessen. According to reports, he made the sandwich for a hungry actress.

Whatever its origin, the Reuben sandwich has become a deli staple throughout the United States.

Ingredients of a Classic Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich has some key ingredients that make it what it is.

1. Rye Bread
Rye bread is the classic option, offering a strong, slightly sour flavor that pairs well with the filling.

2. Corned Beef
Thinly sliced, tender corned beef is the highlight of the sandwich, bringing rich flavor and texture.

3. Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese provides a mild, creamy flavor that melts well when grilled.

4. Sauerkraut
Fermented cabbage provides a tangy crunch that cuts the richness of the meat and cheese.

5. Russian or Thousand Island Dressing
A slightly sweet, creamy dressing holds everything together.

How to Prepare a Reuben Sandwich at Home
It is surprisingly simple to prepare a Reuben sandwich at home and only takes a few minutes.

Ingredients:
2 slices of rye bread

4 oz thin slices of corned beef

2 slices of Swiss cheese

1/4 cup sauerkraut (drained)

2 tbsp Russian or Thousand Island dressing

Butter for grilling

Instructions:
Butter one side of each bread slice.

Spread the dressing evenly on the non-buttered side.

Layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.

Top the sandwich with the second bread slice, buttered side outward.

Grill the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted (about 3-4 minutes per side).

Cut in half and serve hot.

Popular Variations of the Reuben Sandwich
Food enthusiasts have crafted quite a few tasty variations of the original Reuben sandwich.

1. Rachel Sandwich
Replace turkey with corned beef and sauerkraut with coleslaw.

2. Vegetarian Reuben
Use marinated tofu or grilled vegetables in place of corned beef.

3. Reuben Sliders
Small Reuben sandwiches to serve as party appetizers or snacks.

4. Reuben Casserole
A baked casserole version of the sandwich with alternate layers of meat, cheese, bread, and dressing.

5. Reuben Wrap
Everything the classic contains wrapped up in a tortilla for a takeout meal.

Why is the Reuben Sandwich So Popular?
The Reuben sandwich has won the hearts of sandwich enthusiasts for a variety of reasons:

1. Balance of Flavors
The salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and melted cheese provide a burst of flavors.

2. Satisfying Texture
Crunchy bread, juicy meat, and gooey cheese provide a satisfying mouthfeel.

3. Versatility
It can be tailored to suit different dietary needs and is ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a filling snack.

4. Deli Classic
The Reuben sandwich is an icon of American deli culture, particularly in New York-style delis.

Serving Suggestions
Serve your Reuben sandwich with:

Crisp French fries

Dill pickles

Coleslaw

Potato salad

A cup of soup

These sides serve to enhance the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Tips for Creating the Best Reuben Sandwich
Use premium corned beef from your neighborhood deli.

Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent a soggy sandwich.

Grill on low to medium heat to melt cheese without burning the bread.

Butter the bread well for a golden crust.

Healthier Reuben Options
Want to make your Reuben sandwich healthier? Here are some tips:

Use whole-grain rye bread.

Select lean corned beef with less fat.

Select low-fat Swiss cheese.

Use a lighter dressing or even Greek yogurt-based spread.

Add more veggies such as lettuce or tomatoes.

Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is not only a staple on the deli menu — it’s a classic dish with rich heritage and flavor that lingers long after the meal has ended. Its distinctive blend of flavors makes for a great meal that can be enjoyed at any time.

No matter if you like the classic version or an updated spin, preparing a Reuben sandwich is simple, tasty, and sure to impress family and friends.