If you’re craving a sandwich that perfectly balances bold flavors, melty cheese, and that unmistakable tang of pickles, the Reuben Open Top Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This open-faced twist on the classic Reuben layers tender salt beef on hearty rye bread, topped with Swiss cheese and crisp gherkins, all crowned with a luscious homemade dressing. It’s a quick, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare but impossible to forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making a memorable Reuben Open Top Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in building up the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of this sandwich.
- Rye bread slices: The sturdy, slightly sour base that holds all the toppings together and adds a deep, hearty flavor.
- Salt beef or corned beef (50g): Thinly sliced for tenderness and characteristic savory punch.
- Gherkins (2 large): Sliced lengthwise to provide a refreshing crunch and tangy bite.
- Swiss cheese (2 slices, such as Emmenthal): Melts beautifully, bringing creamy richness that complements the beef.
- Butter (10g): For crisping the bread and adding a golden, flavorful crust.
- Mayonnaise (2 teaspoons): A smooth base for the dressing, adding moisture and subtle creaminess.
- Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Brings a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dressing.
- Horseradish sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat that lifts the overall flavor without overpowering.
How to Make Reuben Open Top Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish sauce until smooth and well combined. Setting this delicious dressing aside allows the flavors to meld perfectly while you build your sandwich.
Step 2: Prepare the Rye Bread
Lay out your rye bread slices and evenly divide the salt beef between them. Next, layer the sliced gherkins on top of the beef before covering everything with the Swiss cheese slices. This combination guarantees a harmonious mix of flavors and textures with every bite.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Heat an ovenproof non-stick frying pan on medium and add the butter. When the butter foams, carefully place your assembled rye bread slices in the pan. Let them cook for one minute to crisp up the base, then move the pan right under the grill for about four minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and the base is perfectly crisped. This finishing step creates a gooey, crunchy delight that is the heart of your Reuben Open Top Recipe.
Step 4: Serve with Dressing
Once toasted and bubbly, serve the open top sandwiches with a generous spoonful of that tangy dressing on the side. It’s perfect for dipping or drizzling, giving each mouthful an extra pop of flavor.
How to Serve Reuben Open Top Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few extra gherkin slices makes an inviting, vibrant garnish that enhances the sandwich’s presentation and adds a fresh contrast to the richness.
Side Dishes
If you want to elevate your meal, serve the open top sandwich alongside crispy potato chips, a light green salad, or a warm bowl of tomato soup. Each side offers a thoughtful balance that makes the meal feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider layering the sandwiches on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting look or placing them on individual plates with small ramekins of the dressing and pickles. These little touches turn a simple sandwich into a shared experience to savor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days to maintain freshness. The rye bread base might soften slightly, but reheating brings back some of the original crispness.
Freezing
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh because freezing can alter the texture of the bread and cheese. However, you can freeze the leftover salt beef separately for longer storage and use it in other dishes later.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Reuben Open Top Recipe in a low oven or under the grill to revive the crunchy base and melty cheese without drying out the meat or bread. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
While rye bread is traditional and offers a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other hearty breads like pumpernickel or sourdough for a different twist.
Is there a good vegetarian alternative for the salt beef?
Absolutely! Thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated seitan can provide a savory, meaty texture that pairs wonderfully with the Reuben toppings.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the mayonnaise-ketchup-horseradish dressing can be prepared up to two days in advance and kept refrigerated to deepen its flavors.
What kind of cheese works best?
Swiss cheese such as Emmenthal is ideal because it melts well and complements the sandwich’s other flavors, but Gruyère or Jarlsberg are also great substitutes.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the rye bread for a gluten-free bread that holds up well during grilling. Many gluten-free options offer a similar texture and taste, so your Reuben Open Top Recipe will still shine.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Reuben Open Top Recipe enough if you’re looking for a quick yet deeply satisfying meal. Its mix of crunchy, creamy, tangy, and savory elements comes together beautifully and feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate. Give it a try—once you taste it, it just might become your new favorite go-to!
Print
Reuben Open Top Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Reuben Open Top recipe offers a quick and delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring layers of salt beef, tangy gherkins, and melted Swiss cheese on crispy rye bread, complemented by a flavorful homemade dressing. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Sandwich
- 2 rye bread slices
- 50g salt beef or corned beef, sliced to desired thickness
- 2 large gherkins, sliced lengthways, 5mm thick
- 2 slices Swiss cheese, such as Emmenthal
- 10g butter
Dressing
- 2 teaspoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon horseradish sauce
Instructions
- Make the dressing: Mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish sauce together in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare rye bread: Lay the salt beef evenly over the two rye bread slices. Top each with the sliced gherkins and then place a slice of Swiss cheese on top.
- Grill: Heat an ovenproof, non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add the butter. When the butter starts to foam, place the rye bread slices in the pan and cook for about 1 minute to crisp the base slightly. Then, transfer the pan immediately under a preheated grill and cook for approximately 4 minutes, or until the bread base is crispy and the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and serve each sandwich with a spoonful of the prepared dressing on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of horseradish sauce in the dressing.
- If you don’t have an ovenproof pan, transfer the sandwich carefully to a baking tray before placing under the grill.
- Using good quality rye bread and Swiss cheese like Emmenthal enhances the classic taste.
- Ensure the grill is preheated to get the cheese perfectly melted and bubbly.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for more servings.
