If you’ve ever wondered, “What dressing goes on a Reuben?”, you’re in good company. The Reuben sandwich, an iconic American deli favorite, is traditionally made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and rye bread. However, the dressing or sauce is the element that truly ties the sandwich together, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Choosing the right dressing for a Reuben involves balancing the saltiness of corned beef, the tang of sauerkraut, and the richness of melted cheese. While traditional Reubens call for Russian or Thousand Island dressing, variations abound. Understanding the types of dressings, flavor profiles, and homemade options will help you craft a Reuben sandwich that is both authentic and delicious. This comprehensive guide explores classic choices, flavor pairings, homemade recipes, variations, and serving tips to ensure your Reuben is perfectly dressed every time.
Classic Ingredients of a Reuben Sandwich
Before delving into dressings, let’s examine the core components of a Reuben:
1. Bread
- Rye bread: Traditional choice, with a robust, slightly tangy flavor
- Pumpernickel: Rich and slightly sweet alternative
- Marbled rye: Popular for visual appeal and mild flavor
2. Protein
- Corned beef: The classic Reuben protein, seasoned and thinly sliced
- Pastrami: Alternative for a slightly spicier flavor
- Turkey: Used in lighter or “Turkey Reuben” variations
3. Cheese
- Swiss cheese: Mild, nutty, and melty, complements the tang of sauerkraut
- Gruyère: Optional substitute for added depth
- Provolone: Less traditional, but works in some variations
4. Vegetables
- Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage providing tang and crunch
- Pickles or cucumber slices: Occasionally added for extra crunch
5. Butter
- Applied to the bread for grilling, creating a golden, crispy exterior
6. Dressing
The dressing is what defines the Reuben, binding flavors and enhancing the sandwich’s classic profile.
What Dressing Goes on a Reuben: Traditional Choices
1. Russian Dressing
Russian dressing is the classic Reuben dressing, creamy with a touch of spice.
Ingredients:
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup or chili sauce
- Horseradish
- Paprika
- Lemon juice
- Worcestershire sauce
Flavor Profile:
- Creamy, tangy, slightly spicy
- Complements the saltiness of corned beef and the tang of sauerkraut
- Traditional choice in many American delis
Why It Works:
- Balances richness from cheese and buttered bread
- Provides moisture to the sandwich without overpowering the other ingredients
2. Thousand Island Dressing
Thousand Island is another popular choice for a Reuben, especially in restaurant variations.
Ingredients:
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup or chili sauce
- Pickle relish
- Lemon juice or vinegar
- Paprika and seasonings
Flavor Profile:
- Slightly sweet, tangy, and creamy
- Enhances flavor complexity
- Provides a mild contrast to the salty and tangy sandwich ingredients
Why It Works:
- Smooth and creamy consistency
- Adds visual appeal with its pinkish hue
- Mild flavor ensures the sandwich remains balanced
3. Horseradish Cream Sauce
For those seeking a spicy twist, horseradish cream is an excellent alternative.
Ingredients:
- Sour cream or mayonnaise
- Prepared horseradish
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Flavor Profile:
- Tangy with heat from horseradish
- Cuts through richness from cheese and butter
- Works well with corned beef or pastrami Reubens
4. Spicy or Chipotle Variations
Modern twists include chipotle mayo or spicy mustard-based sauces:
- Adds smokiness or heat
- Appeals to those who prefer a more contemporary, bold flavor
- Pairs well with robust rye bread and sharp Swiss cheese
5. Vegan or Dairy-Free Options
For dietary restrictions, alternatives include:
- Cashew-based creamy dressing
- Vegan mayonnaise with ketchup and paprika
- Mustard and vinegar blends for tang
These maintain flavor without dairy or animal products while keeping the sandwich moist.
How to Choose the Right Dressing
1. Match Dressing to Protein
- Corned beef: Traditional Russian or Thousand Island complements the saltiness
- Turkey or chicken Reuben: Mild dressings like Thousand Island or horseradish cream work best
- Pastrami Reuben: Spicy or smoky dressings enhance flavor depth
2. Balance Flavors
- Salty vs. tangy: Corned beef and sauerkraut need a dressing that balances richness and acidity
- Creamy vs. zesty: Creamy dressings add indulgence; zesty or spicy ones add complexity
3. Consider Bread Type
- Rye bread: Bold flavors like Russian or Thousand Island pair well
- Pumpernickel: Sweeter dressings complement the natural sweetness of the bread
4. Dietary Considerations
- Low-fat: Mustard-based or vinegar-forward sauces
- Gluten-free: Ensure dressings are free from added sugars or starches
- Vegan: Cashew or plant-based mayonnaise options
5. Texture Matters
- Smooth, creamy dressings coat ingredients evenly
- Chunky dressings or relishes provide bursts of flavor
Homemade Dressings for a Reuben
Making your own dressing ensures freshness, control over ingredients, and customization.
1. Classic Russian Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
2. Homemade Thousand Island Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Paprika and black pepper to taste
Instructions: Whisk together until creamy. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.
3. Horseradish Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Instructions: Combine ingredients and chill. Ideal for a spicier Reuben experience.
4. Spicy Chipotle Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 teaspoons chipotle in adobo, minced
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions: Blend until smooth. Adds a smoky heat to traditional Reubens.
Reuben Variations and Dressing Pairings
1. Classic Corned Beef Reuben
- Best with Russian dressing or Thousand Island
- Balances saltiness, tang, and creaminess
2. Turkey Reuben
- Thousand Island or horseradish cream complements lean protein
- Provides moisture and flavor without overpowering the sandwich
3. Pastrami Reuben
- Spicy chipotle or horseradish cream enhances the bold, cured meat
- Can add extra mustard for tang
4. Vegetarian Reuben
- Substitute corned beef with marinated tempeh, roasted vegetables, or portobello mushrooms
- Use Russian-style vegan dressing or mustard-based sauces
5. Smoked Salmon Reuben
- A modern twist featuring smoked salmon and cream cheese
- Pair with dill-infused Russian dressing or yogurt-based sauces for complementary flavor
Serving Tips for Reubens
- Grill Properly: Butter the bread for crisp exterior, ensuring dressing does not make it soggy
- Apply Dressing Evenly: Spread generously but not excessively on each slice
- Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully: Protein, cheese, sauerkraut, then dressing for even flavor distribution
- Offer Dressings on the Side: Great for customizable heat or tanginess preferences
- Pair with Sides: Potato chips, coleslaw, or pickles enhance the sandwich experience
Nutritional Considerations
1. Calorie Content
- Creamy dressings like Russian or Thousand Island add richness and calories
- Mustard or vinegar-based dressings provide flavor with fewer calories
2. Dietary Adaptations
- Low-fat: Use light mayonnaise or yogurt-based sauces
- Keto-friendly: Full-fat dressings with no added sugar
- Vegan: Cashew or plant-based mayonnaise alternatives
3. Nutrient Balance
- Reubens provide protein, fats, and some fiber
- Dressing adds flavor and moisture but can also add fats and sugar—balance accordingly
Seasonal and Regional Considerations
1. Classic American Delis
- Russian or Thousand Island dressings dominate
- Served hot with grilled rye for a comforting experience
2. Modern or Fusion Reubens
- Incorporate chipotle, horseradish, or avocado-based dressings
- Can feature non-traditional proteins or breads
3. Holiday or Special Occasion Reubens
- Dressings with honey, mustard, or citrus infusions add seasonal flair
- Perfect for gatherings or special menus
Experimenting with Reuben Dressings
Trying new dressings allows you to customize flavor profiles:
- Mix Russian with horseradish for a spicy twist
- Add herbs like dill or parsley to creamy dressings for freshness
- Combine sweet and tangy elements like honey and mustard for unique flavor
- Adjust heat levels with chipotle, jalapeño, or horseradish
Experimentation answers the ultimate question: “What dressing goes on a Reuben?” while allowing personalization for taste, season, or occasion.
This guide provides a comprehensive look at what dressing goes on a Reuben, including classic choices, homemade recipes, variations, pairing suggestions, serving tips, nutritional considerations, and modern twists. With this knowledge, anyone can craft the perfect Reuben sandwich at home, tailored to personal taste or dietary needs.
FAQs About Reuben Dressings
Q1: What dressing goes on a Reuben sandwich?
The classic dressings are Russian dressing and Thousand Island, which provide creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that complement corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut.
Q2: Can I use a spicy dressing on a Reuben?
Yes. Horseradish cream, chipotle mayo, or spicy mustard-based sauces add heat and complexity for those who prefer a bolder flavor profile.
Q3: Are there vegan or dairy-free dressings suitable for a Reuben?
Absolutely. Options include cashew-based creamy dressings, vegan mayonnaise blends, or mustard-vinegar sauces, which provide tang and moisture without dairy.
Q4: Can I make a homemade Reuben dressing?
Yes. Homemade versions of Russian, Thousand Island, horseradish cream, or chipotle dressings allow you to control ingredients, spice levels, and flavor intensity.
Q5: Which dressing pairs best with turkey or chicken Reubens?
Milder dressings like Thousand Island, horseradish cream, or avocado-based sauces complement lean proteins without overpowering them.
Q6: How much dressing should I use on a Reuben?
Spread 1–2 tablespoons per slice of bread, enough to coat ingredients evenly without making the sandwich soggy.
Q7: Can I mix dressings on a Reuben?
Yes. Combining a creamy base with a touch of spice or tang (e.g., Russian with horseradish) creates layered flavors and enhances the overall sandwich experience.
Q8: Are there regional variations in Reuben dressings?
Yes. Classic American delis favor Russian or Thousand Island, while modern or fusion versions might include chipotle, mustard-honey blends, or herb-infused creamy sauces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dressing is essential to answering “What dressing goes on a Reuben?” and elevating this classic sandwich. Traditional Russian and Thousand Island dressings provide creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes that harmonize with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut. For those seeking variety, horseradish cream, chipotle, or vegan alternatives offer exciting twists while maintaining balance and moisture.
Homemade dressings allow full control over ingredients, spice, and flavor intensity, making it easy to tailor a Reuben to personal taste or dietary needs. Creamy dressings enrich the sandwich, tangy dressings cut through richness, and spicy options add depth and boldness.
Ultimately, the perfect Reuben dressing ties all components together, enhancing flavor, texture, and satisfaction, ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory goodness.