Slow Cooker Corned Beef Reuben Sandwiches

When it comes to classic comfort food, few things can compete with a well-made Reuben sandwich. The combination of tender corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian or Thousand Island dressing between slices of hearty rye bread makes this sandwich an all-time favorite. Using a slow cooker to prepare the corned beef takes this recipe to a new level of ease and flavor. You can set it, forget it, and come back to the most tender corned beef, perfect for creating mouthwatering Reuben sandwiches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love these slow cooker corned beef Reuben sandwiches. First, slow cooking makes the corned beef incredibly tender, allowing it to soak up all the flavors of the seasonings. This recipe is also easy to make ahead, so it’s perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. Plus, making corned beef in a slow cooker minimizes the need for constant monitoring, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the process.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Reuben Sandwiches

Description

A comforting Reuben sandwich made with slow-cooked corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and tangy dressing on rye bread.

Ingredients

• 2-3 lbs corned beef brisket, with seasoning packet
• 1 onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 4 cups water
• 8 slices rye bread
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
• Butter for toasting

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer, use marble rye bread for a unique twist on the classic. For those looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat Swiss cheese works well, and a lower-sodium corned beef brisket can be substituted for the traditional cut.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the corned beef: Place the corned beef brisket in the slow cooker. Add the seasoning packet, onion, garlic, and water. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the corned beef is tender.
2. Slice the corned beef: Once cooked, remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
3. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread a layer of Russian or Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of rye bread. Top one slice with a layer of Swiss cheese, followed by slices of corned beef, sauerkraut, and another slice of cheese.
4. Toast the sandwiches: Butter the outer sides of the bread and place the sandwich on a skillet over medium heat. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve: Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and enjoy hot with a side of pickles or chips.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) + 10 minutes (sandwich assembly)
• Total Time: Approximately 8-10 hours and 20 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches. Pair your slow cooker corned beef Reuben sandwiches with crispy potato chips, a side of dill pickles, or a cold coleslaw. It’s also delicious with a simple green salad or a bowl of hearty soup for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (based on 4 sandwiches) has approximately:

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 26g

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

If you have leftover corned beef, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cooked corned beef can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool before freezing.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, warm the corned beef in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Assemble the sandwiches fresh, as reheating a pre-made sandwich may cause the bread to become soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I add extra spices to the corned beef?

Yes, feel free to add bay leaves, peppercorns, or a few cloves for additional flavor.

What type of cheese can I substitute for Swiss?

Provolone or Havarti can be used if you prefer a milder flavor, but Swiss is traditional for a Reuben sandwich.

Conclusion

This slow cooker corned beef Reuben sandwiches recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of tender corned beef with melted cheese and tangy sauerkraut on buttery rye bread creates a satisfying and comforting meal. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Let us know how it turned out in the comments below, and share any creative variations you added to make it your own!