Smoked Rueben Sandwich

If you’re looking to elevate a classic deli favorite, this Smoked Reuben Sandwich recipe is the perfect way to do it. By slowly smoking corned beef until tender and juicy, you create a bold, flavorful filling that transforms traditional reuben sandwiches into something truly unforgettable.

Layered between slices of rye bread with melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing, this delicious reuben sandwich is smoky, savory, and packed with texture.

Whether you’re planning a festive meal for St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving your favorite sandwich, this smoked version delivers rich flavor and a satisfying bite every time.

Why Smoking Corned Beef Makes the Best Reuben

Traditional reuben sandwiches usually feature deli-style corned beef, but smoking your own beef brisket version takes things to the next level. The smoker slowly tenderizes the meat while developing a deep bark on the outside, locking in moisture and enhancing flavor.

As the corned beef cooks at low temperature, the spices and rub create a crust infused with notes of black pepper and mustard seeds. Once sliced thin and piled high on toasted bread, the smoky beef pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing and sharp Swiss cheese.

This technique turns a simple deli sandwich into a bold hearty sandwich perfect for backyard cooking or holiday meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need for a Smoked Rueben Sandwich

Smoked Corned Beef

• 3 pounds uncooked corned beef
• 3 tablespoons beef rub
• 1 cup beef broth

Sandwich

• Slices of rye bread
• 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard
• 2 slices melty Swiss cheese
• ¼ cup tangy sauerkraut

Homemade Russian Dressing

• ½ cup mayo
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

This simple dressing adds creamy sweetness and tang that balances the smoky meat and salty kraut.

How to Make a Smoked Rueben Sandwich

1. Prepare and Smoke the Beef

Start by removing the seasoned corned beef from the package. Place it in cold water and soak it in the refrigerator for 2–6 hours. This step helps remove excess saltiness from the curing process.

Once soaked, remove the beef from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Lightly coat the outside with your favorite beef rub, making sure the entire surface is seasoned.

Preheat your smoker to 250°F and place the corned beef directly on the grates. Let it smoke for 4–6 hours, allowing the outside bark to develop.

When the bark is set, remove the beef and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil with beef broth (or beef tallow for extra richness). Return it to the smoker and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 205°F.

After cooking, place the wrapped brisket in a cooler and let it rest for 1–3 hours. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making slicing easier and ensuring tender meat.

Finally, slice the smoked beef brisket thinly against the grain.

2. Make the Russian Dressing

While the beef rests, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine mayo, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

This creamy Russian dressing delivers the signature flavor that makes a delicious reuben sandwich so irresistible.

3. Assemble the Smoked Reuben Sandwich

Start by lightly toasting your slices of bread until golden and crisp. Toasted bread adds the perfect texture and keeps the sandwich from getting soggy.

Spread stone ground mustard onto one slice of the toasted rye bread. Next, layer 2–3 slices of smoked corned beef, followed by melty Swiss cheese.

Add a generous spoonful of tangy sauerkraut, then drizzle with the homemade Russian dressing.

Top with the remaining slice of bread, press gently, and slice the sandwich in half.

The Perfect Hearty Sandwich

The result is a smoky, cheesy, flavor-packed hearty sandwich that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. The balance of tender corned beef, creamy dressing, crunchy toasted bread, and tangy kraut creates the ultimate favorite sandwich experience.

Once you try this smoked version, regular reuben sandwiches may never taste the same again.

More Delicious Sandwiches to try!

Chopped Pastrami Sandwich:
A bold deli-style sandwich loaded with chopped pastrami, melty cheese, and flavorful toppings on toasted bread. This hearty sandwich delivers smoky, savory bites perfect for lunch, dinner, or sandwich lovers.

Smoked Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwich:
Tender smoked Mississippi pot roast piled high on toasted bread with buttery peppers and savory juices. This rich, comforting sandwich delivers bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth beef in every bite.

Creamy Mushroom Steak Frites Sandwich:
Juicy steak topped with a rich creamy mushroom sauce served on toasted bread with crispy fries. This indulgent steak sandwich combines bold flavor, tender beef, and comforting steakhouse-inspired goodness.

Smoked Cubano Sandwich:
A smoky twist on the classic Cuban sandwich featuring smoked pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed between crispy bread. This savory sandwich is packed with bold, delicious flavor.

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