Grilled Reuben Sandwich: Crispy Flat Top Style | Arteflame

Introduction

Imagine the sound of buttered rye bread hitting a hot griddle, instantly releasing a toasted, nutty aroma that mingles with the scent of smoky meat. The Classic Reuben is more than just a sandwich; it’s a sensory experience. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching the Swiss cheese bubble and melt over layers of savory corned beef while the sauerkraut adds that essential tangy crunch. It’s the kind of meal that turns a casual backyard lunch into a restaurant-worthy event.

Why I Love This Dish

What elevates this specific recipe is the use of the Arteflame Grill. The flat cooktop provides an incredibly even heat that creates a golden, edge-to-edge crust you simply can’t achieve in a standard frying pan. Plus, the combination of creamy Thousand Island dressing against the salty bite of corned beef creates a flavor profile that is perfectly balanced—rich, yet bright and zesty.

Tips for Success

• Drain the Sauerkraut: Squeeze out excess liquid from the sauerkraut before assembling to ensure your bread stays crisp, not soggy.
• Heat Management: Let the grill reach a steady medium-high heat. If it’s too hot, the bread will burn before the cheese melts inside.
• Pre-warm the Meat: For an extra melty center, flash-sear the corned beef on the grill for 30 seconds before stacking it on the bread.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find corned beef, pastrami makes a delicious, slightly peppier alternative. You can also swap the Swiss cheese for Gruyère for a nuttier flavor, or use a spicy Russian dressing if you prefer a bit of heat over the sweetness of Thousand Island.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Reuben Sandwich

• 8 slices rye bread
• 1 lb sliced corned beef
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 4 tbsp butter, softened

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Arteflame Grill

1. Heat the Arteflame Grill until the cooktop reaches medium-high heat.
2. Lightly oil the surface if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Sandwich Layers

1. Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
2. Place the unbuttered side up and spread Thousand Island dressing on four slices.
3. Add Swiss cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut.

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

1. Place the sandwiches buttered-side down on the hot grill.
2. Top each with the remaining slices of bread, buttered-side out.
3. Cook until the bread is golden and crisp, then flip carefully.
4. Continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Remove from the grill and let the sandwiches rest for one minute.
2. Slice and serve hot.

Tips

To perfect your Reuben on the Arteflame Grill, pay attention to heat control and ingredient balance. Allow the grill to fully preheat to ensure the bread crisps evenly. Draining the sauerkraut prevents sogginess, and using high‑quality rye bread helps the sandwich hold its structure. If your cheese isn’t melting quickly enough, cover the sandwich briefly to trap heat. For even more flavor, warm the corned beef directly on the cooktop before assembling.

Variations

This grilled Reuben adapts easily to different tastes without losing its classic appeal. Experiment with ingredients to create your own signature version. Here are some simple twists that keep the spirit of the Reuben while adding a fresh spin.

• Use pastrami instead of corned beef
• Swap Thousand Island for spicy Russian dressing
• Try smoked Gouda or provolone in place of Swiss cheese
• Replace sauerkraut with grilled cabbage
• Make a turkey Reuben (Rachel sandwich)

Best pairings

The rich, savory flavors of a grilled Reuben pair well with crisp, refreshing sides that balance its hearty texture. Whether you're planning a full cookout or a simple lunch, these pairings bring out the smoky grilled notes while adding brightness and contrast.

• Dill pickles or pickle spears
• Crunchy coleslaw
• Kettle‑style potato chips
• German potato salad
• Cold craft beer or iced tea

Conclusion

Grilling a Reuben sandwich on the Arteflame Grill transforms a deli classic into a smoky, melty, unforgettable meal. Every layer—from the crisp rye bread to the bubbling Swiss cheese—benefits from the grill’s even heat and rich sear.

Perfect for gatherings or a satisfying weekend cookout, this recipe brings out the best in simple ingredients while delivering bold flavor. Once you try it on the grill, the standard Reuben will never be the same.