The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli favorite, has been a staple in American cuisine for decades. Typically made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, this sandwich is usually grilled or pan-fried to perfection. However, in this article, we’ll explore a unique twist on the traditional Reuben: making it in the oven. This method not only simplifies the cooking process but also adds a crispy, caramelized texture to the bread that’s hard to achieve with traditional grilling methods.
The Benefits of Oven-Baking a Reuben Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s discuss the benefits of oven-baking a Reuben sandwich. Here are a few advantages of this method:
- Easy to make in large quantities: Oven-baking is ideal for making multiple sandwiches at once, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.
- Less mess: Unlike grilling or pan-frying, oven-baking eliminates the risk of splatters and spills.
- Even cooking: The oven heat ensures that the sandwich is cooked evenly throughout, eliminating the risk of undercooked or overcooked areas.
- Crispy bread: The dry heat of the oven helps to crisp up the bread, adding a satisfying texture to the sandwich.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make oven-baked Reuben sandwiches, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 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
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Cheese grater (optional)
Preparing the Ingredients
Before assembling the sandwiches, it’s essential to prepare the ingredients. Here’s how:
- Slice the corned beef: Use a sharp knife to slice the corned beef into thin strips. You can also use a meat slicer if you have one.
- Drain and rinse the sauerkraut: Remove the sauerkraut from the jar and rinse it under cold running water to remove excess vinegar. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Grate the cheese: If you prefer a more melted cheese, you can grate the Swiss cheese using a box grater or a food processor.
- Soften the butter: Leave the butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. This will make it easier to spread on the bread.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Now that the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here’s how:
- Butter the bread: Spread a small amount of softened butter on each slice of rye bread. This will help the bread brown evenly in the oven.
- Add the corned beef: Place 2-3 slices of corned beef on each slice of bread, depending on your desired level of meatiness.
- Add the sauerkraut: Spoon a small amount of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef. You can use as much or as little as you like, depending on your taste preferences.
- Add the cheese: Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. If you grated the cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the sauerkraut.
- Add the Thousand Island dressing: Spread a small amount of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese. You can use as much or as little as you like, depending on your taste preferences.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place the other slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
Baking the Sandwiches
Now that the sandwiches are assembled, it’s time to bake them in the oven. Here’s how:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the sandwiches on the baking sheet: Place the sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each sandwich.
- Bake the sandwiches: Bake the sandwiches for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Flip the sandwiches: After 10 minutes of baking, flip the sandwiches over to ensure even cooking.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your oven-baked Reuben sandwiches to the next level:
- Use a broiler: If you want a crisper bread, you can broil the sandwiches for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Add some spice: You can add some spice to your Reuben sandwiches by sprinkling a pinch of paprika or caraway seeds on top of the cheese.
- Use different types of cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional in Reuben sandwiches, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the Reuben sandwiches. Simply cook some onions in a pan until they’re caramelized and add them to the filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making oven-baked Reuben sandwiches:
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each sandwich to ensure even cooking.
- Not buttering the bread: Buttering the bread helps it brown evenly in the oven, so don’t skip this step.
- Not flipping the sandwiches: Flipping the sandwiches halfway through baking ensures even cooking, so don’t forget to do this.
Conclusion
Oven-baked Reuben sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic deli favorite. By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can create a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a quick lunch. So next time you’re in the mood for a Reuben, consider oven-baking it for a unique and satisfying twist.
What is a Reuben sandwich?
A Reuben sandwich is a classic deli favorite that typically consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The Reuben sandwich is often associated with Jewish delis, where it originated.
The traditional Reuben sandwich is usually made with thinly sliced corned beef, which is a type of cured beef that has been cooked in liquid. The sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor, while the Swiss cheese provides creaminess. The Thousand Island dressing adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
What is the twist in oven-baked Reuben sandwiches?
The twist in oven-baked Reuben sandwiches is that they are baked in the oven instead of being grilled. This method allows for a crispy, toasted bread without the need for a pan or grill. The oven heat also melts the cheese and warms the corned beef and sauerkraut, creating a gooey, savory filling.
Baking the Reuben sandwiches in the oven also makes it easier to make multiple sandwiches at once. Simply assemble the sandwiches, place them on a baking sheet, and bake until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. This method is perfect for large gatherings or parties.
What type of bread is best for oven-baked Reuben sandwiches?
The best type of bread for oven-baked Reuben sandwiches is a dense, chewy bread that can hold up to the filling. Rye bread is a classic choice, but other types of bread such as pumpernickel or sourdough also work well. The bread should be sliced thickly to provide a sturdy base for the filling.
It’s also important to choose a bread that has some texture and chew to it. A soft, fluffy bread may become too soggy when baked with the filling. A bread with some heft and texture will provide a nice contrast to the soft, gooey filling.
Can I use different types of cheese in oven-baked Reuben sandwiches?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for Reuben sandwiches, other types of cheese can also be used. Cheddar, provolone, or even mozzarella can add a unique flavor to the sandwich. However, keep in mind that the cheese should be melted and gooey, so a cheese with a high melting point is best.
Experimenting with different types of cheese can also add some creativity to the recipe. For example, using a spicy cheese like pepper jack can add a bold flavor to the sandwich. Alternatively, using a mild cheese like mozzarella can provide a creamy, subtle flavor.
How do I assemble oven-baked Reuben sandwiches?
To assemble oven-baked Reuben sandwiches, start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on each slice of bread. Then, add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut. Finally, top with a slice of cheese and place the other slice of bread on top.
Make sure to assemble the sandwiches carefully, as the filling can be messy. You can also use a toothpick to hold the sandwich together while it bakes. This will ensure that the filling stays inside the bread and the cheese melts evenly.
Can I make oven-baked Reuben sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, oven-baked Reuben sandwiches can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble the sandwiches and place them on a baking sheet. Cover the sandwiches with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the sandwiches from the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Making the sandwiches ahead of time can be a convenient option for large gatherings or parties. Simply assemble the sandwiches, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready. This will save you time and effort in the long run.
How do I serve oven-baked Reuben sandwiches?
Oven-baked Reuben sandwiches can be served hot, straight from the oven. Simply remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, slice in half and serve.
You can also serve the sandwiches with a side of soup or salad. A bowl of creamy tomato soup or a green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory sandwich. Alternatively, you can serve the sandwiches on their own as a satisfying snack or meal.