If you adore the tangy, savory flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich but crave a twist that’s quick to assemble and irresistibly tasty, this Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe will become your new go-to. Combining the rich salt beef, crunchy gherkins, creamy Swiss cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing atop crisp rye bread, this open-faced delight bursts with bold flavors and textures in every bite. It’s a fresh, satisfying take that elevates a beloved sandwich tradition to something effortlessly special and joyfully shareable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients that create perfect harmony. Each element plays a distinct role, from the tang of the gherkins to the creamy melt of the Swiss cheese and the bold punch of the dressing, all balanced by hearty rye bread.
- Rye bread (2 slices): Provides a sturdy and flavorful base with its signature earthy taste and chewy texture.
- Salt beef or corned beef (50g, sliced): The star protein, rich and tender, offering that classic Reuben savory punch.
- Gherkins (2 large, sliced lengthways 5mm thick): Add a crisp, vinegary crunch that brightens the sandwich.
- Swiss cheese – Emmenthal (2 slices): Melts beautifully, lending a creamy, nutty flavor that ties the sandwich together.
- Butter (10g): Used to crisp the bread, imparting a golden, buttery finish that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Mayonnaise (2 teaspoons): Forms the base of the tangy dressing that adds creaminess and moisture.
- Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Brings a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dressing.
- Horseradish sauce (1 teaspoon): Kick-starts the dressing with a fiery, sharp zing that complements the beef perfectly.
How to Make Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Craft the Dressing
Begin by mixing the mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish sauce in a small bowl until smooth and harmonious. This tangy dressing is the heart of your sandwich experience. Setting it aside gives you time to build the sandwich and brings out the flavors as it rests.
Step 2: Layer Your Flavors
Next, take your rye bread slices and generously divide the salt beef evenly on top. Layer the sliced gherkins over the beef, ensuring every bite will have that satisfying crunch and tang. Then, crown each slice with the Swiss cheese that’s ready to melt and marry all the flavors together.
Step 3: Achieve the Perfect Crisp
Heat a non-stick, ovenproof frying pan over medium heat and add the butter. When the butter foams and smells nutty, carefully place the bread slices, cheese side up, into the pan. Cook for about one minute to brown the bread’s underside slightly. Then transfer the pan directly under the grill for around four minutes, watching closely until the bread base is crisp and the cheese is bubbling with golden spots.
Step 4: Serve with Flair
Once your open-top sandwiches are gloriously melty and crisp, plate them with a generous spoonful of the prepared dressing on the side. This allows everyone to add as much tangy, creamy punch as they like, making the experience wonderfully interactive and customizable.
How to Serve Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of finely chopped fresh parsley can add a pop of color and a bit of freshness to cut through the rich flavors. For an extra touch, a few thin red onion slices or an extra gherkin on the side can enhance crunch and zing.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs beautifully with a crisp dill pickle or a crunchy cabbage slaw to echo those classic deli vibes. For a heartier meal, a bowl of hot matzo ball soup or a small serving of creamy potato salad complements the richness perfectly without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe on a rustic wooden board with a side of spicy mustard or extra horseradish sauce for dipping. For entertaining, cut the sandwich into bite-sized squares and arrange on a platter for a perfect party snack that invites guests to savor each crunchy, cheesy bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Because the sandwich is open-faced, the bread may soften overnight, so it’s best to consume leftovers within one day for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this sandwich due to the fresh crispness of the rye bread and the textured layers of the toppings. The gherkins and dressing can become watery, and the bread can lose its crunch after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low oven or toaster oven to warm the sandwich slowly and help restore some of the crispness to the bread while gently melting the cheese again. Avoid microwaving, as this tends to make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use corned beef instead of salt beef?
Absolutely! Corned beef is a traditional and delicious alternative that works wonderfully in this Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe, offering a slightly different yet equally flavorful experience.
What is the best cheese to use?
Swiss cheese varieties like Emmenthal or Gruyère are ideal due to their mild, nutty flavor and excellent melting qualities. They perfectly complement the boldness of the beef without overpowering it.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
While the classic recipe centers on salt beef, you can swap in hearty, smoky marinated mushrooms or a plant-based deli slice to keep the savory vibe while catering to vegetarian preferences.
Is the horseradish sauce necessary?
The horseradish sauce gives the dressing that signature piquant kick which balances the rich components of the sandwich. If you don’t like spicy flavors, you can reduce the amount or omit it for a milder taste.
What bread types can I use if I don’t have rye?
Rye bread is traditional for its flavor and texture, but a dense pumpernickel or even a crusty sourdough can be excellent substitutes, each adding their own unique character to your open-top creation.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about this Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe that makes me want to share it with every friend and family member. It’s quick, bursting with flavor, and offers a fresh spin on a classic favorite that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or a special snack, dive in and enjoy every heavenly bite!
Print
Reuben Open Top Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and tasty Reuben Open Top sandwich featuring rye bread topped with tender salt beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy gherkins, finished with a creamy horseradish dressing and lightly grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Bread and Meat
- 2 rye bread slices
- 50g salt beef or corned beef, sliced to desired thickness
Vegetables
- 2 large gherkins, sliced lengthways, 5mm thick
Dairy
- 2 slices Swiss cheese, such as Emmenthal
- 10g butter
Dressing
- 2 teaspoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon horseradish sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: Mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish sauce together in a small bowl until combined. Set aside for serving.
- Assemble the sandwich: Spread the slices of rye bread with the slices of salt beef evenly. Layer the sliced gherkins on top of the meat, then place the Swiss cheese slices over the gherkins.
- Cook the sandwich: Heat an ovenproof, non-stick frying pan over medium heat and melt the butter. Once the butter starts to foam, carefully place the assembled bread slices in the pan and cook for about 1 minute to crisp the base slightly. Transfer the pan immediately under a hot grill for 4 minutes or until the bread’s base is crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and serve each sandwich open-faced with a spoonful of the prepared dressing on the side for dipping or spreading.
Notes
- You can substitute the salt beef with corned beef if preferred.
- Adjust the thickness of the gherkin slices to your liking for crunchiness.
- Ensure your frying pan is ovenproof to safely transfer it under the grill.
- Serving this sandwich open-top keeps the textures distinct and prevents sogginess.
