Air Fryer Reuben Sandwich Recipe - Fork To Spoon (2024)

Get ready to elevate the classic Reuben sandwich to new heights with the magic of the air fryer.

This innovative take on the beloved deli classic combines layers of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and zesty Russian dressing, all nestled between slices of rye bread.

The result?

A Reuben sandwich that’s delightfully crispy on the outside and irresistibly melty on the inside, all without the need for a skillet or grill. Get ready to savor every bite of this air-fried masterpiece!

With just a few simple steps, you can create a yummy and satisfying Reuben sandwich in the air fryer that’s perfect for any occasion.

The Best Air Fryer Reuben Sandwich Recipe

AnAir Fryer Reuben Sandwichis amazing! There is nothing better for a quick lunch than this Reuben recipe.

Reubens are perfect in the air fryer and such a leisurely lunch or dinner. I had been making them for years before I purchased my first air fryer. So, it was one of my first attempts at making anair fryer Reuben sandwich.

The words to describe an air fryer Reuben are juicy and delicious. Today, I used rye bread slices with corned beef, cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing — the classic Reuben sandwich.

I love a great Air Fryer Sandwich Recipes. Someof my favorites are AIR FRYER TURKEY CLUB SANDWICH, AIR FRYER GRILLED CHEESE PIZZA SANDWICHES, AIR FRYER PATTY MELT, and AIR FRYER CHEESY BBQ PORK SLIDERS.

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Sandwiches Recipe

• The perfect savory, cheesy comfort meal
• Better than you, local deli
• Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or Game Days!
• A deli classic made from the comfort of your own home
• Only a handful of ingredients
• So easy in the air fryer!

Ingredients Needed for an Air Fryer Reuben

With a few simple ingredients, you can make this delicious deli sandwich in minutes! Here are the following ingredients that you will need to make these treats:

The detailed ingredient list and printable recipe card are at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Corned Beef:Thinly sliced, tender, and flavorful, corned beef is the star of the Reuben sandwich, providing a rich, savory taste.
• Sauerkraut:Tangy and fermented cabbage adds a delightful sour crunch and complements the meat with its zesty notes.
• Swiss Cheese:The creamy, nutty Swiss cheese melts beautifully, enveloping the sandwich in gooey goodness.
• Rye Bread:Hearty rye bread, with its slightly sour flavor and firm texture, forms the perfect foundation for the sandwich.
• Russian Dressing:A creamy and zesty Russian dressing with a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and spices adds a signature kick to the Reuben.
• Butter or Cooking Spray:To achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior in the air fryer, a light coating of butter or cooking spray is essential.

These ingredients combine to create the classic and irresistible flavors of the Air Fryer Reuben sandwich.

How To Make Air Fryer Reuben Sandwich

With a few simple steps, you can make this delicious recipe for a true Reuben sandwich.

Step 1: Start Layers

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Lay out 4 slices of rye bread on a flat surface or cutting board.

Spread a generous amount of Russian dressing on each slice, covering one side of each slice.

Layer the Ingredients:

On two of the slices of bread (dressing side up), layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese.

Top each sandwich with the remaining slices of rye bread (dressing side down). Add the remaining ingredients.

Butter the Sandwiches:

Lightly spread butter or apply a thin layer of cooking spray to the outside of each sandwich. This will help achieve a crispy crust when air frying.

Step 3: Air Fry

Place the assembled sandwiches in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded, in a single layer.

Set the air fryer temperature to 350 degrees F (175°C) and set the cooking time for 5-7 minutes, or until the sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese is melted, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.

Serve and Enjoy:

Carefully remove the Reuben sandwiches from the air fryer, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of Thousand Island dressing.

Recipe Variations

While the recipe below is for a traditional Reuben, mix and match these variations to create unique Air Fryer Reuben Sandwich recipes. Customize them to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic sandwich in new and exciting ways.​

• Turkey Reuben Sandwich:Swap the corned beef for thinly sliced turkey. Use coleslaw instead of sauerkraut for a refreshing twist.
• Vegetarian Reuben Sandwich:Replace the meat with grilled or roasted portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. Opt for a plant-based or vegan Swiss cheese and Russian dressing.
• Smoked Salmon Reuben:Substitute smoked salmon for the corned beef for a luxurious twist. Add capers and thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor.
• Pumpernickel Bread Reuben:Use pumpernickel bread instead of rye for a darker, earthy flavor. Consider using pastrami or roast beef for a unique flavor combination.
• Mini Reuben Sliders:Make more miniature versions of Reuben sandwiches using dinner rolls or slider buns. Perfect for serving as appetizers or party snacks.
• Sauerkraut Variation:Experiment with different types of sauerkraut, such as spicy sauerkraut or homemade fermented sauerkraut, to customize the flavor.
• Open-Faced Reuben:Toast a single slice of rye bread, add the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, and then air fry until the cheese is melted. Serve it open-faced with a drizzle of Russian dressing.
• Reuben Quesadilla:Create a Reuben-inspired quesadilla by placing the ingredients between two flour tortillas and air frying until crispy and melty.
• Reuben Wraps:Roll up the Reuben ingredients in a giant tortilla or flatbread for a portable and convenient meal.
• Spicy Reuben:– Add a kick to your Reuben with sliced jalapeños, caraway seeds, or pickled hot peppers.

Pro Tips For Cooking Reuben Sandwich in Air Fryer

Here are some pro tips for cooking a Reuben sandwich in an air fryer to achieve the best results:

• Preheat Your Air Fryer:Always preheat your air fryer before cooking. This ensures the cooking temperature is consistent, resulting in even browning and crispiness.
• Butter or Cooking Spray:To achieve that perfect crispy exterior, lightly coat the outside of the sandwich with melted butter or apply a thin layer of cooking spray. This helps with browning and prevents the bread from drying out.
• Don’t Overcrowd:Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the sandwiches in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation for even cooking. Depending on the type of air fryer that you’re using, you may need to cook the sandwiches in batches.
• Flip Halfway ThroughTo ensure both sides of the sandwich are evenly browned and the cheese is melted, flip the sandwich halfway through the cooking time.
• Check for Doneness:Keep a close eye on the sandwiches toward the end of the cooking time. The cooking times may vary based on the size and thickness of the sandwiches and your specific air fryer model. Adjust as needed to prevent overcooking.
• Serve Hot:Reuben sandwiches are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the air fryer. Let them cool for a minute or two to avoid burning your mouth, but don’t wait too long to enjoy that delicious crispiness.
• Customize Your Reuben:Feel free to customize your Reuben sandwich with different variations of ingredients, such as turkey, mushrooms, or unique sauces, to suit your taste preferences.
• Toast the Bread Separately:If you prefer extra crispy bread, you can toast it separately in a toaster before assembling the sandwich.
• Adjust Temperature and Time:Experiment with the air fryer’s temperature and cooking time based on your preferences. Some like a lighter toast, while others prefer a deep golden-brown crust.
• Serve with Pickles:Reuben sandwiches pair with dill pickles or pickled cucumbers. The tangy, crunchy pickles complement the rich flavors of the sandwich.

FAQ’s:

Can I use a different type of bread for my Reuben sandwich?

Yes, you can experiment with different bread varieties, such as whole wheat, sourdough, or even a gluten-free option if needed. Traditional rye bread is a classic choice, but the choice of bread is flexible to suit your preferences.

Can I make a Reuben sandwich with pastrami instead of corned beef?

Absolutely! Pastrami is a delicious alternative to corned beef and can be used interchangeably in a Reuben sandwich for a slightly different flavor profile.

What if I’m out of Russian dressing? Can I use another sauce?

While Russian dressing is the classic choice, you can use Thousand Island dressing or a combination of ketchup and mayonnaise as a substitute. Feel free to customize the sauce to your liking.

Can I make a Reuben sandwich with sauerkraut on the side instead of inside the sandwich?

Yes, you can serve sauerkraut on the side if you prefer. Some people enjoy dipping their sandwich into a small bowl of sauerkraut for an extra tangy bite.

How do I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?

If you have leftover Reuben sandwiches, wrap them in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place them into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven for best results.

Can I freeze Reuben sandwiches for later?

It’s not recommended to freeze fully assembled Reuben sandwiches, as the texture of the bread and ingredients may change upon thawing. Instead, you can freeze individual components (e.g., cooked corned beef, sauerkraut) and assemble the sandwiches when needed.

Can I make Reuben sandwiches in advance for a party or gathering?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble the sandwiches just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispiness of the bread. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for a perfect way to serve them up as a party appetizer or snack.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Reuben sandwiches in the air fryer?

To reheat leftover Reuben sandwiches in the air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), and then air fry the sandwiches for a few minutes until they are heated through and the bread is crispy.

Can I use a different cheese in my Reuben sandwich?

While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.

Can I make Reuben sandwiches in a regular oven if I don’t have an air fryer?– Yes, you can make Reuben sandwiches in a regular oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the assembled sandwiches for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

How to make classic Reuben in a skillet?

Assemble the sandwich as called in the directions, coat the outside of the bread with room temperature butter, and cook over medium-heat for 5-7 minutes; flip halfway during the cooking process.

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