Sausage Reuben: A Chef’s Twist on a Classic

The scent of a well-made Reuben takes me straight back to my culinary school days. Late nights spent studying were always punctuated by a pilgrimage to a nearby deli, where the promise of a perfectly grilled Reuben – that symphony of tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss, and savory meat – fueled our weary minds. While the classic corned beef Reuben will always hold a special place in my heart, I’ve always enjoyed playing with variations, and this Sausage Reuben brings a welcome smoky kick to an old favorite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 2 slices rye bread
• 1 link sausage (any good quality cooked/smoked beef or pork link sausage will do)
• 2 tablespoons hot mustard
• ½ cup sauerkraut
• 2 slices Swiss cheese

Equipment Needed

• Grill or frying pan
• Saucepan
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the sausage. Cut the sausage link lengthwise down the middle.
2. Grill or pan fry the sausage until it is nicely browned and crisp along the edges. Set aside.
3. Next, spread the hot mustard on one side of both slices of rye bread.
4. In a sauce pan, heat the sauerkraut. Once heated through, remove from the pan and squeeze off any excess juices. This step is crucial to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
5. Now, it’s time to assemble the Sausage Reuben. Place one slice of Swiss cheese on the first slice of rye bread, mustard-side up.
6. Lay the grilled or pan-fried sausage link on top of the cheese.
7. Pile the warmed and squeezed sauerkraut generously over the sausage.
8. Top with the second slice of Swiss cheese and the second slice of rye bread, mustard-side down.
9. Wrap the assembled sandwich securely in aluminum foil.
10. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
11. Place the foil-wrapped sandwich in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
12. Remove the sandwich from the oven, unwrap it carefully, and slice it diagonally.
13. Serve immediately with a crisp dill pickle and your favorite chips.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Sausage Selection: Don’t skimp on the sausage! Choose a high-quality smoked sausage with good flavor. Andouille or chorizo can add an extra layer of spice, while a kielbasa will provide a classic, comforting taste.
• Sauerkraut Secrets: Squeezing the sauerkraut is key to avoiding a soggy sandwich. You can even gently pat it dry with a paper towel after squeezing for extra insurance.
• Mustard Magic: While hot mustard provides a nice kick, feel free to experiment with other types of mustard. A whole-grain mustard will add texture and a subtle sweetness, while a spicy brown mustard will enhance the smoky flavors of the sausage.
• Cheese Choices: Swiss is the traditional choice, but Gruyere or even a sharp provolone can also work well.
• Grilling for Flavor: If you have a panini press, use it! It will give the sandwich beautiful grill marks and compress all the flavors together. A heavy skillet with another skillet on top as a weight works just as well.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Sausage Reuben immediately after baking for the best flavor and texture. The melted cheese and warm sauerkraut are at their peak right out of the oven.

If you have any leftovers (unlikely!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can wrap the sandwich in foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat, pressing down on the sandwich to help it heat evenly. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make the bread soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	629.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	344 g	55%
Total Fat	38.2 g	58%
Saturated Fat	17.1 g	85%
Cholesterol	91 mg	30%
Sodium	1954.7 mg	81%
Total Carbohydrate	40.9 g	13%
Dietary Fiber	6.5 g	25%
Sugars	5.3 g	21%
Protein	30.5 g	61%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Sausage Reuben: Use a spicy Italian sausage or andouille sausage for an extra kick. Add a few slices of pickled jalapenos for even more heat.
• Vegetarian Reuben: Substitute the sausage with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tempeh.
• Gluten-Free Reuben: Use gluten-free rye bread and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Sauerkraut Variations: Experiment with different flavors of sauerkraut, such as caraway seed or dill.
• Russian Dressing Variation: For a sweeter tang, mix equal parts of Thousand Island dressing and mayonnaise. Spread it on the bread with the mustard.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular mustard instead of hot mustard?
A: Yes, you can! Regular yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, or even a honey mustard will work well, depending on your preference.

Q: What kind of chips go best with a Sausage Reuben?
A: Kettle-cooked potato chips, especially those with a dill pickle or salt and vinegar flavor, are a great accompaniment.

Q: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble and bake the sandwich just before serving for optimal flavor and texture. However, you can prepare the sauerkraut and sausage ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.

Q: Is it important to squeeze the sauerkraut?
A: Yes, squeezing the sauerkraut is crucial to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy. Nobody wants a soggy Reuben!

Q: Can I grill the sandwich instead of baking it?
A: Absolutely! Grilling or using a panini press will give the sandwich a crispy exterior and melt the cheese beautifully. Just be sure to watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Reuben is a delightful twist on a classic sandwich, offering a smoky, satisfying flavor profile that’s sure to please. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sausages, mustards, and cheeses to create your own signature Reuben. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a comforting dinner, this recipe is a winner. Share your culinary creations with friends and family, and let me know what variations you come up with! Bon appétit!