Grilled Pastrami Reuben: Restaurant-Style | Arteflame

Introduction

There is something undeniably soul-warming about the scent of toasted rye and melting cheese drifting through the air. This Grilled Pastrami Reuben isn't just a sandwich; it is a textural masterpiece where the crunch of buttery bread meets the tender warmth of savory meat. It reminds me of those bustling New York delis, but with a unique, smoky twist that only the open air can provide. It is the perfect easy meal for a laid-back Sunday or a quick, satisfying lunch that feels like a decadent treat.

Why I Love This Dish

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between gourmet flavor and backyard simplicity. The Arteflame cooktop sears the bread to a golden crisp while warming the sauerkraut and pastrami, ensuring every bite is hot and flavorful without the dreaded cold center. The creamy richness of the Swiss cheese and dressing perfectly offsets the salty punch of the meat. It is a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but comes together with minimal fuss, making you look like a pro griller with hardly any effort.

Tips for Success

• Dry the Sauerkraut: To avoid a soggy bottom crust, wring out your sauerkraut in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before adding it to the sandwich. Excess moisture is the enemy of a crisp Reuben.
• Heat Management: Utilize the moderate heat zones of your grill (away from the direct center). If the heat is too high, the bread will char before the cheese fully melts.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find pastrami, corned beef is a classic alternative, or try sliced turkey for a lighter "Rachel" variation. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based Swiss cheese alternative and olive oil instead of butter on the bread.

Ingredients

• 8 slices rye bread
• 1 pound sliced pastrami
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions

Step 1:

1. Preheat your Arteflame grill to medium heat.
2. Lightly butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
3. Place the bread butter-side down near the center of the grill cooktop.

Step 2:

1. Add a slice of Swiss cheese to each piece of bread.
2. Top half the slices with warm pastrami.
3. Spread Thousand Island dressing over the remaining slices.

Step 3:

1. Add sauerkraut on top of the pastrami.
2. Close the sandwich by placing the dressed bread on top, cheese-side down.
3. Press gently to help everything meld together.

Step 4:

1. Grill each side for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. Flip carefully with a spatula and grill the second side.
3. Remove once the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.

Tips

For the best grilled Reuben, use high-quality pastrami and well-drained sauerkraut to avoid soggy bread. Grilling on the Arteflame cooktop adds subtle smoky flavor, so choose a medium heat to prevent burning. Buttering the bread evenly helps achieve a golden crisp exterior. If you prefer a stronger tang, add an extra layer of Thousand Island dressing just before serving. For easier flipping, press the sandwich lightly with a spatula to help it hold its shape.

Variations

This grilled Reuben recipe is easy to customize depending on your taste and the ingredients you have available. Try adjusting the meat, cheese, or sauce for a personalized spin while still enjoying the classic Reuben flavor profile. Here are a few delicious variations to explore:

• Turkey Reuben using sliced turkey instead of pastrami
• Swiss-and-cheddar combo for extra melt
• Spicy Reuben with pepper jack and hot sauce
• Coleslaw Reuben replacing sauerkraut with creamy slaw
• Vegetarian Reuben with grilled mushrooms

Best pairings

A grilled pastrami Reuben pairs wonderfully with classic deli-style sides and refreshing beverages. These combinations help balance the richness of the sandwich while enhancing its smoky grilled flavor. Whether you're planning a full meal or a simple lunch, choose sides that complement its tangy, savory character.

• Crispy kettle chips
• Garlic dill pickles
• Classic potato salad
• Coleslaw or vinegar slaw
• Cold craft beer or iced tea

Conclusion

Grilling a Pastrami Reuben Sandwich on the Arteflame transforms a traditional deli favorite into a smoky outdoor experience packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a hot, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth sandwich everyone will love. Whether you're cooking for friends or making a quick weekend meal, this grilled Reuben delivers satisfying results every time.

Let the Arteflame’s signature heat and char elevate this classic sandwich into something unforgettable.