If you’re a fan of hearty sandwiches, you’re in for a treat with this Roast Beef Reuben recipe. It takes the iconic Reuben – known for its bold flavors and tangy dressing – and gives it a delicious spin by swapping corned beef for juicy, tender roast beef. The result? A sandwich that’s rich, savory, and just the right amount of indulgent.

I first stumbled upon this variation during a weekend trip to a quaint diner, and it instantly became a favorite. The combination of crispy rye bread, melted Swiss cheese, and the flavorful twist of roast beef won me over. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen when I’m craving something warm and satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

This Roast Beef Reuben is everything you love about a traditional Reuben with a few exciting updates. It’s comfort food at its finest and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a game-day spread.

First, it’s packed with bold flavors. The savory roast beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing come together in perfect harmony, all nestled between slices of buttery, toasted rye bread.

Second, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a hot, satisfying meal on the table in less than 20 minutes.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Whether you’re using leftover roast beef or deli slices, this recipe adapts to what you have on hand. You can even adjust the toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of the Roast Beef Reuben lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds a distinct element to the sandwich's rich flavor profile.

Rye Bread: Traditional rye bread, with its nutty and slightly tangy taste, is the ideal base for this sandwich. If you prefer a milder flavor, marble rye or pumpernickel are great alternatives.
Roast Beef: Opt for high-quality deli-sliced roast beef or use leftovers from a roast dinner. The beef’s tender texture and savory flavor pair beautifully with the other ingredients.
Swiss Cheese: This creamy, nutty cheese is a classic in any Reuben. It melts beautifully and adds a mild richness that balances the tangy components of the sandwich.
Sauerkraut: The acidity and crunch of sauerkraut cut through the richness of the meat and cheese. Be sure to drain it well to prevent a soggy sandwich.
Russian Dressing: A key player in the Reuben, this creamy, tangy dressing ties all the flavors together. If you don’t have Russian dressing, Thousand Island is a great substitute.
Butter: Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of the bread to achieve a golden, crispy crust when grilling.

How To Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Creating this delicious sandwich is easy and takes just a few simple steps. Here’s how:

Prepare the Bread: Lay out the slices of rye bread on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of Russian dressing on one side of each slice.
Layer the Ingredients: On one slice of bread, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, a portion of roast beef, and a spoonful of drained sauerkraut. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese for extra melty goodness. Place the second slice of bread on top, dressing side in.
Butter the Bread: Spread a thin, even layer of butter on the outside of each slice of bread. This step is essential for achieving that signature golden crust.
Grill the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwich from the skillet, slice it in half, and serve immediately. Pair it with pickles, chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time to save time later.

Make-Ahead Russian Dressing: The dressing can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This also works great as a dip or salad dressing.
Assemble Ahead: You can assemble the sandwich (without grilling) up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to eat, simply butter the bread and grill as directed.
Leftovers: If you have a fully assembled sandwich left over, wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to crisp up the bread and melt the cheese again.

Variations and Substitutions

This Roast Beef Reuben is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Turkey Reuben: Swap the roast beef for turkey to create a "Rachel," a popular variation of the classic Reuben.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with roasted portobello mushrooms or a hearty veggie patty for a plant-based version of this sandwich.
Spicy Kick: Add a layer of spicy horseradish sauce or a few slices of pickled jalapeños for a zesty upgrade.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this sandwich accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Cheese Substitutions: If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, try provolone or Havarti for a different flavor profile.

Now that you know how to make this Roast Beef Reuben, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a weekend indulgence, this sandwich is sure to impress. Enjoy every crispy, melty, and flavorful bite!