The Reuben sandwich, a timeless favorite among deli enthusiasts and comfort food lovers alike, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. Traditionally made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread, this mouthwatering creation is a true delight. However, for those looking to mix things up and add a new dimension to this beloved classic, we’ve got a game-changing solution: baking the Reuben sandwich in the oven.
The Benefits of Oven-Baking a Reuben Sandwich
While grilling a Reuben sandwich is undoubtedly delicious, oven-baking offers several advantages that can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are just a few benefits of taking the oven-baked route:
- Even heating: Unlike grilling, which can sometimes result in unevenly cooked bread or overcooked filling, oven-baking ensures that your Reuben sandwich is cooked consistently throughout.
- Crispy bread: A hot oven can produce a crispy, golden-brown crust on your rye bread that’s simply impossible to achieve with grilling.
- Melty cheese: Oven-baking allows the Swiss cheese to melt to perfection, binding all the flavors together in a rich, creamy sauce.
- Easy to make in bulk: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, oven-baking makes it simple to cook multiple Reuben sandwiches at once.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the instructions, let’s make sure you have everything you need to create the ultimate oven-baked Reuben sandwich.
- Ingredients:
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup of Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Equipment:
- Large baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Oven-safe skillet or broiler pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Cheese grater (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparing the Filling
The key to a great Reuben sandwich lies in its filling, so let’s start by preparing the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
- Corned beef: Slice the corned beef into thin strips, making sure to remove any excess fat or connective tissue.
- Sauerkraut: Drain and rinse the sauerkraut, squeezing out as much liquid as possible. You can also add some caraway seeds or chopped fresh parsley to give it an extra boost of flavor.
- Swiss cheese: Slice the Swiss cheese into thin strips, or grate it using a cheese grater for an extra-melty texture.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Now that our filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the Reuben sandwiches.
- Buttering the bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter onto each slice of rye bread, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Adding the filling: Place a slice of bread, butter-side down, onto the prepared baking sheet. Add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut, and finally a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Adding the Thousand Island dressing: Spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing onto the top slice of bread, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Assembling the sandwich: Place the top slice of bread, dressing-side down, onto the filling.
Baking the Sandwiches
With our Reuben sandwiches assembled, it’s time to bake them to perfection.
- Preheating the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), making sure to adjust the racks to the middle position.
- Baking the sandwiches: Place the baking sheet onto the middle rack and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broiling the sandwiches: If you want an extra-crispy crust, place the sandwiches under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted to your liking.
Tips and Variations
While the classic Reuben sandwich recipe is undoubtedly delicious, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and add your own twist.
- Using different types of cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese, to add a unique flavor profile to your Reuben sandwich.
- Adding some spice: Add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
- Using different types of bread: Experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta, to add a unique texture and flavor to your Reuben sandwich.
Conclusion
The oven-baked Reuben sandwich is a game-changing twist on a classic recipe that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates. With its crispy bread, melty cheese, and flavorful filling, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to mix things up and add some excitement to their meal routine. So why not give it a try and experience the ultimate comfort food for yourself?
What is an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich?
An Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich is a creative twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. It features corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all baked to perfection in the oven instead of being grilled or pan-fried. This method allows for a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior.
The Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of a traditional Reuben without the hassle of grilling or pan-frying. It’s also a great option for a crowd, as it can be easily made in large quantities and served hot.
What are the ingredients needed for an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich?
The ingredients needed for an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich include corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, rye bread, and butter or non-stick cooking spray. You can also add some caraway seeds or chopped fresh parsley for extra flavor and texture.
You can use store-bought corned beef, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing to make the sandwich, or you can make your own from scratch. The rye bread should be sliced into thick pieces and toasted before assembling the sandwich.
How do I assemble an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich?
To assemble an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter or spray one side of each slice of rye bread, then place one slice, buttered side down, on a baking sheet. Top with a slice of corned beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a dollop of Thousand Island dressing.
Place the second slice of rye bread, buttered side up, on top of the filling. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make more sandwiches. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Can I customize an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich to my taste?
Yes, you can customize an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich to your taste by adding or substituting different ingredients. Some ideas include adding sliced turkey or roast beef, using different types of cheese or bread, or adding some caramelized onions or bell peppers.
You can also use different types of sauerkraut, such as spicy or flavored sauerkraut, to give the sandwich an extra kick. If you’re not a fan of Thousand Island dressing, you can use mayonnaise or mustard instead.
How do I serve an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich?
An Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich is best served hot, straight from the oven. You can serve it on its own or with a side of soup, salad, or fries. It’s also a great option for a picnic or outdoor gathering, as it can be easily transported and served.
You can also serve the sandwich with some additional toppings, such as sliced pickles or coleslaw. If you’re serving a crowd, you can set up a toppings bar with different ingredients and let everyone customize their own sandwich.
Can I make an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can make an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before baking. You can prepare the ingredients, such as slicing the corned beef and sauerkraut, and toasting the bread, ahead of time.
However, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches and bake them just before serving, as the bread can become soggy if it’s assembled too far in advance. You can also bake the sandwiches ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Is an Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich a healthy option?
An Oven-Baked Reuben Sandwich is not the healthiest option, as it contains a significant amount of fat and calories from the corned beef, cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. However, it can be made healthier by using leaner corned beef, reducing the amount of cheese and dressing, and using whole-grain bread.
You can also add some healthier ingredients, such as sliced vegetables or avocado, to increase the nutritional value of the sandwich. Additionally, baking the sandwich in the oven instead of grilling or pan-frying it reduces the amount of added fat.