Squeeze the sauerkraut bone-dry before it hits the sandwich and griddle low and slow. Wet kraut steams the bread limp; the goal is a patient sear that melts the Swiss fully before the rye burns.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook10 min
Makesmakes 2
CuisineAmerican
Cost$$$
Contains dairy · gluten
Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for2servings
Corned beef
Sliced thin from the deli; pile it high and warm it through.
Can you make Reuben Sandwich in an air fryer? — Sometimes
Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.
Can you freeze Reuben Sandwich? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make Reuben Sandwich ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it needs the chill time to set, so making it ahead is the whole point.
Is Reuben Sandwich gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Is Reuben Sandwich vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.