What happens when you take the bold flavors of a Reuben sandwich and transform them into a crispy, cheesy quesadilla? You get the ultimate Reuben Quesadillas – a quick, satisfying dish that combines the best of deli classics and Tex-Mex comfort food.

I first made this recipe when craving a Reuben but only had tortillas on hand. The result was a crunchy, melty creation that quickly became a family favorite. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer!

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Quesadilla Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dish, these Reuben Quesadillas are a must-try.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a skillet, you can whip up this dish in under 20 minutes.

Second, they’re loaded with the bold flavors you love. Tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, savory corned beef, and creamy Russian dressing come together in every crispy bite.

Lastly, they’re versatile. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or making a quick solo meal, these quesadillas are endlessly customizable to suit your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Reuben Quesadillas lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients:

Tortillas: Large flour tortillas work best for a golden, crispy exterior that holds everything together. For a twist, try rye-flavored wraps if you can find them.
Corned Beef: Thinly sliced deli corned beef is perfect for this recipe. If you have leftover corned beef from a meal, even better!
Swiss Cheese: This classic cheese melts beautifully and brings a nutty, tangy flavor. Havarti or Gruyère are great alternatives if you prefer.
Sauerkraut: The tangy crunch of sauerkraut is a key component. Be sure to drain it well to avoid a soggy quesadilla.
Russian Dressing: This creamy, tangy sauce ties everything together. If you don’t have Russian dressing, Thousand Island is an excellent substitute.

Optional add-ins like diced pickles, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of caraway seeds can elevate the flavor even more.

How To Make Reuben Quesadillas

Making these quesadillas is as easy as layering, folding, and crisping. Here’s how to do it:

Prepare the Ingredients: Drain the sauerkraut and pat it dry with paper towels. Slice or shred the corned beef into bite-sized pieces if needed.
Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of Russian dressing over one side. Sprinkle half of the tortilla with Swiss cheese, followed by corned beef and sauerkraut. Add a little more cheese on top to help everything stick together. Fold the tortilla in half.
Cook the Quesadilla: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Repeat: Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling ingredients until all the quesadillas are made.
Slice and Serve: Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve immediately with extra Russian dressing or mustard for dipping.

Storage Options

While these quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare them in advance for added convenience.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 1 day. Cook them just before serving.
Leftovers: Cooked quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to regain their crispness.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked quesadillas in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes per side.

Variations and Substitutions

These Reuben Quesadillas are endlessly customizable. Here are some fun variations to try:

Turkey Reuben Quesadilla: Substitute corned beef with sliced turkey for a lighter option inspired by the classic "Rachel" sandwich.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and peppers.
Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or layer in pepper jack cheese for a little heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish accessible to everyone.
Mini Quesadillas: Make smaller versions using street taco-sized tortillas for party appetizers or kid-friendly portions.

Now that you know how to make these crispy, melty Reuben Quesadillas, it’s time to get cooking! Perfect for a casual weeknight meal, game-day snack, or even lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every tangy, cheesy bite!