There's nothing better than biting into a perfectly toasted Roast Beef Reuben sandwich—crunchy rye bread, tender roast beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing all come together for a flavor explosion. It’s the kind of sandwich that turns a regular meal into a memorable treat.

I discovered this recipe while trying to make the most of leftover roast beef from a Sunday roast, and it quickly became a household favorite. This twist on the traditional Reuben is bold, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s get started on making your new favorite sandwich!

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef Reuben

If you’re looking for a sandwich that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and packed with flavor—this Roast Beef Reuben is the one.

First and foremost, it’s a quick meal option. You can have this sandwich ready in about 15 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy lunches or a speedy dinner.

It’s also a great way to use up leftovers. Transforming leftover roast beef into a crave-worthy sandwich saves time and reduces waste.

The flavor is simply unbeatable. Smoky, savory roast beef paired with tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and gooey cheese creates a perfectly balanced bite every time.

Lastly, it’s customizable to your taste. Whether you tweak the dressing, swap out the cheese, or try a different bread, this recipe is incredibly versatile.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of a Roast Beef Reuben lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a key role. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

Rye Bread
The foundation of a classic Reuben, rye bread’s slightly tangy flavor and hearty texture make it perfect for holding up to the sandwich’s robust fillings.

Roast Beef
Use thinly sliced roast beef, either leftover from a previous meal or from the deli. The smoky, savory meat is the centerpiece of this sandwich.

Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese melts beautifully, adding a creamy, nutty element that complements the bold flavors of the beef and sauerkraut.

Sauerkraut
This fermented cabbage provides a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the cheese and dressing. Be sure to drain it well before using to avoid sogginess.

Thousand Island Dressing
This sweet and tangy dressing ties everything together. You can use store-bought or whip up a homemade version with mayo, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish.

Butter
A light layer of butter on the bread ensures a perfectly golden, crispy crust when toasted.

How to Make This Roast Beef Reuben

Making a Roast Beef Reuben is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a sandwich that’s perfectly crisp and melty:

Prep Your Ingredients
Lay out four slices of rye bread. Butter one side of each slice, and place them buttered-side down on a clean surface. Drain and pat your sauerkraut dry, slice your roast beef, and have your Swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing ready.
Assemble the Sandwich
Spread a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing on the unbuttered side of two bread slices. Layer on a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a generous portion of roast beef, a few spoonfuls of sauerkraut, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
Toast to Perfection
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, pressing down gently with a spatula. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve Hot
Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair with potato chips, a pickle, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

While the Roast Beef Reuben is best enjoyed fresh, here are some tips for storing and reheating leftovers:

Refrigerator: Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Freezer: You can freeze fully assembled, uncooked sandwiches. Wrap them in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month.

When reheating, avoid microwaving to prevent soggy bread. Instead, warm the sandwich in a skillet over low heat until the bread is crisp and the filling is heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This Roast Beef Reuben is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Corned Beef
Swap the roast beef for corned beef for a more traditional Reuben flavor.

Different Cheeses
Not a fan of Swiss? Provolone, Havarti, or even cheddar make great substitutes.

Homemade Dressing
Elevate your sandwich by making a homemade Thousand Island dressing. Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and a splash of vinegar for a fresh, tangy touch.

Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free rye-style bread to make this sandwich suitable for gluten-free diets.

Vegetarian Twist
Replace the roast beef with marinated portobello mushrooms or a plant-based protein for a meatless option.

The possibilities are endless—don’t hesitate to experiment and make this sandwich your own!

A Roast Beef Reuben is a surefire way to elevate your lunch or dinner game. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!