What To Eat With Reuben Sandwich

So, you’ve just pulled a bubbling, golden-brown Reuben sandwich off the griddle. The rye bread is perfectly toasted, the corned beef is salty and tender, Swiss cheese is oozing out the sides, and that tangy sauerkraut is peeking through. Your mouth is watering, and you’re ready to dive in. But hold up—what are you going to eat with it? You can’t just throw a masterpiece like this onto an empty plate.

Trust me, a Reuben is a loud, bold character at the dinner table—like a rockstar with a leather jacket. It needs sidekicks that can keep up, not wilt away in silence. The wrong companion can make the whole meal feel flat, like pairing a shout with a whisper. So let’s chat about what really makes this sandwich shine.

First up: the classic crunch crew

Let’s be honest—do you even know a Reuben without a heap of crispy, salty French fries? It’s the ultimate power couple, like peanut butter and jelly, but with a serious savory edge. The fry’s crunch cuts through the soft, juicy layers of the sandwich, giving your mouth a little break from all that tangy kraut. And don’t be shy—dip those fries in extra Thousand Island dressing. It’s not cheating; it’s synergy.

But wait—what about curly fries or even sweet potato fries? Curly fries bring a playful, seasoned twist, while sweet potato fries offer a gentle sweetness that calms the Reuben’s salty punch. It’s like giving your taste buds a little conversation starter. Which fry are you teaming up with today?

The pickle pickle pickle problem

You can’t talk Reuben sides without mentioning the pickle spear. It’s not just a garnish; it’s a palate cleanser. That sour, briny crunch resets your tongue between bites, so every mouthful of corned beef and Swiss feels like the first one. Ever notice how a good dill pickle makes you crave another bite of the sandwich? That’s the magic.

And if you’re feeling extra, throw in some pickled onions or pickled jalapeños on the side. The acidity lifts the whole experience, like a splash of lemon on fried fish. You might think a Reuben is enough—and it is—but a pickle makes it an event.

Reuben Sandwich

Soup: the Reuben’s warm hug

Here’s a combo that feels like a cozy sweater on a rainy day: tomato soup with a Reuben. Wait, isn’t that a grilled cheese thing? Yes, but trust the logic—the creamy, slightly sweet tomato soup balances the sandwich’s briny, smoky depth. Dip the corner of that rye bread in the soup, and you get a little bit of heaven. It’s a total comfort food upgrade.

Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go for a matzo ball soup. The fluffy dumpling and the salty broth echo the corned beef’s heritage. It’s like the Reuben’s long-lost cousin from a deli across town. Have you ever tried that combo? If not, you’re missing a cultural flavor explosion.

Salads that don’t wimp out

Let’s not forget the lighter side—but a Reuben deserves a salad with personality. A simple coleslaw is a winner; its crunchy, slightly creamy texture mirrors the sauerkraut but with a different vibe. But skip the boring iceberg lettuce—go for a Kale Caesar with extra parmesan. The bitter greens and tangy dressing stand up to the Reuben like a sparring partner, not a punching bag.

What about a German potato salad? That warm, vinegary, bacon-filled bowl is basically the Reuben’s soulmate from the same deli aisle. The tangy vinaigrette dances with the sandwich’s Russian dressing. It’s a little messy, a little perfect, and totally worth the extra napkins. Ever notice how good sides make you forget you’re eating vegetables?

Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe - Saving Room for Dessert

Drinks: the final piece of the puzzle

You can’t eat a Reuben without something to wash it down. A cold, crisp pickleback—a shot of whiskey followed by pickle brine—is the power move of champions. But if that’s too intense, a tangy lemonade or a dark stout beer works wonders. The lemonade cuts the fat, while the stout’s roasted notes hug the corned beef like a warm blanket. Why settle for water when you can have a partner in crime?

One weird trick: the side salad surprise

Here’s a curveball: roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze. The caramelized bitterness of the sprouts plays off the sweet, salty layers of the Reuben. It’s like pairing a leather jacket with a silk scarf—unexpected, but totally stylish. You’ll feel like a culinary genius for trying it. Seriously, when was the last time a sandwich made you feel so clever?

And if you’re really in a funky mood, kimchi on the side is a wild card. The fermented spice adds a whole new dimension to the Reuben’s kraut. It’s like taking the sandwich on a road trip to Korea—and coming back with a better story. What’s the harm in experimenting a little?

The messy, glorious truth

At the end of the day, a Reuben is a beast of a sandwich—it’s hearty, bold, and a little messy. The best sides are the ones that respect that energy. Whether you go classic with fries and pickles, cozy with soup, or wild with Brussels sprouts, remember: the meal is about joy, not rules. So grab a napkin, pile on your favorite side, and take a big, happy bite. What’s your go-to Reuben companion? Go on, tell me—I’m already hungry.