Reuben The Great from Jason's Deli features tender corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing layered between toasted rye bread, delivering a classic deli sandwich with savory and tangy flavors and a satisfying crunchy bite.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Bread knife
- Slicing knife
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Mixing bowl (optional, for sauerkraut or dressing)
- Ladle or spoon (for sauerkraut/dressing)
- Cutting board
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) sliced corned beef
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut
- 8 slices rye bread
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
The key to an authentic Reuben The Great sandwich lies in using high-quality, thinly sliced corned beef and fresh Swiss cheese to achieve the perfect melt. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to prevent sogginess while maintaining its tangy punch. Toast the rye bread evenly with butter on a grill or griddle to get that satisfying crunch without burning. Using creamy Thousand Island dressing adds a balanced richness that complements the savory and tangy flavors. Your homemade Reuben The Great from Jason's Deli copycat menu will offer a deliciously balanced and satisfying experience reminiscent of the classic deli favorite.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or griddle.
- Place rye bread slices on a cutting board.
- Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one side of each bread slice.
- Drain sauerkraut (if watery) and portion it for sandwiches.
- Layer corned beef on half of the bread slices.
- Add Swiss cheese slices over the corned beef.
- Top with sauerkraut.
- Place remaining bread slices (dressing side down) on top to form sandwiches.
- Butter the outsides of each sandwich.
- Place sandwiches on the preheated grill or griddle.
- Cook until bread is golden brown and crispy, and cheese melts (3-5 min per side), flipping with a spatula.
- Remove sandwiches and let cool briefly on the cutting board.
- Slice each sandwich in half using a bread knife.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Reuben The Great from Jason's Deli copycat menu can be customized by substituting corned beef with pastrami or turkey if preferred. Swiss cheese can be replaced with provolone or mozzarella to suit your taste and dietary needs. If sauerkraut is unavailable, try using pickled cabbage or coleslaw for a similar tangy crunch. When toasted rye bread is hard to find, substitute with pumpernickel or sourdough to maintain that hearty texture. Your choice of Thousand Island dressing can be swapped with Russian dressing or a homemade mixture of mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish for convenience.
Tips
Ensure you properly drain the sauerkraut to prevent soggy sandwiches and maintain the crispiness of the rye bread. Butter the outside of the bread evenly to achieve a golden, crispy crust when grilled. Use medium heat on your grill or griddle to allow the Swiss cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread. For easier handling, use tongs to flip the sandwiches and a sharp bread knife to slice your Reuben neatly before serving.
Nutritions
The Reuben The Great from Jason's Deli offers a rich source of protein primarily from tender corned beef, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. Swiss cheese contributes beneficial calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. Sauerkraut adds dietary fiber and probiotic benefits that support digestive health, while Thousand Island dressing provides flavorful fats, though it is best enjoyed in moderation due to calorie density. Your choice to balance portion size can help manage overall nutrient intake for a satisfying and nutritionally rounded meal.
Storage
Store any leftover Reuben The Great sandwiches in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent the rye bread from drying out. Refrigerate for up to 2 days to keep the corned beef and Swiss cheese fresh while avoiding sogginess from the sauerkraut and dressing. When reheating, use a grill or griddle to restore the sandwich's crispy texture and melt the cheese evenly, preserving your meal's original savory and tangy flavors.
Variation or Alternatives
You can try substituting corned beef with pastrami or roast beef for a different flavor profile while maintaining the sandwich's meaty richness. Swiss cheese can be replaced with Gruyere or provolone to add a nuttier or creamier texture. Lightly sauteing the sauerkraut with onions and caraway seeds before assembly enhances its depth and balances the sandwich. Use mayonnaise mixed with ketchup and a dash of pickle juice as an alternative to Thousand Island dressing for a tangy twist.
Allergies
The Reuben The Great from Jason's Deli contains common allergens such as dairy from Swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing, as well as gluten from rye bread. Corned beef may also pose a risk for those with red meat allergies or sensitivities. If you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or meat, it's important to consider these ingredients before enjoying this sandwich.
Why this recipe?
The Reuben The Great sandwich at Jason's Deli stands out for its perfect balance of rich corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing on toasted rye bread. Its complex flavors and satisfying texture create an indulgent yet comforting dining experience that keeps customers coming back. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredient quality and freshness, ensuring a superior taste that rivals the original. Trying to recreate this iconic sandwich at home lets you appreciate the craftsmanship behind Jason's Deli's popular menu item while enjoying a personalized, delicious meal.