If you’re craving a sandwich that perfectly balances comfort, spice, and tang, this Best Kimchi Reuben Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It takes everything you love about a classic Reuben — tender corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, and tangy dressing — and gives it a bold Korean-inspired upgrade with flavorful kimchi.
In just 20 minutes, you can create a gourmet-level sandwich that tastes like something straight from a trendy bistro — but made easily in your home kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or making a quick lunch for family, this Kimchi Reuben combines global flavors in a way that’s both comforting and exciting.
🥪 What Is a Kimchi Reuben?
The Kimchi Reuben is a fun and creative fusion between an American deli classic and a Korean staple. Traditionally, a Reuben sandwich includes corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and thousand island dressing, all grilled on rye bread.
In this modern twist, sauerkraut is replaced with kimchi — a Korean fermented cabbage dish bursting with spicy, tangy, and umami-rich flavor. The result is a crispy, buttery sandwich that delivers both heat and depth with every bite.
This combination is not just a flavor experiment; it’s a delicious marriage between East and West that elevates the traditional Reuben into something uniquely crave-worthy.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Kimchi Reuben
There are a hundred reasons to fall in love with this sandwich, but here are the best ones:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Flavor Explosion: The bold kimchi perfectly complements the salty beef and creamy cheese.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of them at home.
- Versatile: Works for lunch, dinner, or even a midnight craving.
- Fusion Perfection: Combines classic deli flavors with spicy Korean personality.
- Great for Beginners: Easy-to-follow instructions with guaranteed crispy results.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble ahead and grill when ready to serve.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to try something new or simply bored with plain sandwiches, this Kimchi Reuben recipe will surprise you with its balance of comfort and excitement.
🧂 Ingredients for Kimchi Reuben
Here’s everything you’ll need to make one hearty sandwich. Feel free to double or triple for more servings.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rye Bread | 2 slices | For authentic flavor; whole grain or sourdough also works. |
| Thousand Island Dressing | 2 tablespoons | Adds creaminess; substitute Russian dressing for extra zest. |
| Corned Beef | 4 ounces | Thinly sliced; pastrami or roast beef are great alternatives. |
| Kimchi | ½ cup | Drain and chop to avoid sogginess. |
| Swiss Cheese | 2 slices | Melts beautifully; Gruyère or Havarti can substitute. |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | For toasting; ensures golden crispy crust. |
Optional add-ins:
- A few pickle slices for extra tang
- A dash of spicy mustard if you like more heat
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for garnish
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start, make sure your kimchi is well-drained and chopped. This keeps the sandwich crisp and prevents it from turning soggy. Slice your corned beef thinly and have your cheese ready to layer.
Step 2: Preheat the Skillet
Set a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread one tablespoon of thousand island dressing on one side of each bread slice.
- On the un-dressed side of one slice, layer the sliced corned beef evenly.
- Add the chopped kimchi on top of the beef.
- Place the Swiss cheese slices over the kimchi.
- Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread, dressing side facing out.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Place the sandwich in the preheated skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula until both sides are golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be perfectly melted, and the bread should have a buttery crunch.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Remove from the skillet and let it rest for about 1 minute. Slice diagonally for that perfect presentation. Serve warm and enjoy the fusion of textures and flavors.
👩🍳 Pro Tips for a Perfect Kimchi Reuben
- Drain the Kimchi Properly: Too much liquid will make the sandwich soggy. Pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Preheat the Pan: A hot skillet ensures even browning.
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Cold meat or cheese can prevent proper melting.
- Press Gently: Don’t squish the sandwich too hard; just enough pressure to crisp it evenly.
- Layer Strategically: Place cheese on both sides of the kimchi if you want an extra melty barrier that holds everything together.
- Experiment with Dressings: Try a blend of mayo, chili sauce, and a dash of lemon for a spicy version.
- Upgrade the Bread: Marble rye gives a stunning presentation and extra flavor.
🧠 Variations and Creative Twists
1. Vegetarian Kimchi Reuben
Swap the corned beef for grilled tempeh or marinated tofu, and use vegan cheese and butter. The result? A meat-free sandwich with the same tangy crunch and cheesy satisfaction.
2. Turkey Kimchi Melt
Use roasted turkey breast instead of corned beef for a leaner version. Perfect after Thanksgiving leftovers.
3. Spicy Kimchi Pastrami Reuben
Use pastrami and add a drizzle of sriracha mayo or spicy mustard for an extra fiery twist.
4. Breakfast Kimchi Reuben
Add a fried egg between the layers, making it a deliciously messy breakfast sandwich that pairs perfectly with coffee.
5. Open-Faced Kimchi Reuben
Turn it into a knife-and-fork meal: place all ingredients on one slice of rye, top with cheese, and broil until melted.
🥗 What to Serve with Kimchi Reuben
A great sandwich deserves equally satisfying sides. Here are some pairings that complete your meal:
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness balances the tangy heat of kimchi.
- Classic Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch to contrast the rich sandwich.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickles, radishes, or cucumbers enhance acidity and texture.
- Miso Soup or Korean Stew: Add a cozy, warm component to round out the meal.
- Sparkling Water with Lime or Iced Green Tea: Perfect palate cleansers for the bold flavors.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat until crispy and warm. Avoid microwaving — it can make the bread soggy and ruin the texture.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended due to moisture from the kimchi and dressing. Instead, prepare ingredients in advance and assemble fresh.
📋 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Total Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
This sandwich is indulgent but balanced — packed with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying meal on its own.
🌶️ Health Benefits of Kimchi in the Reuben
Kimchi isn’t just delicious; it’s nutrient-rich and probiotic-loaded, which makes this sandwich slightly more wholesome than the traditional version.
- Boosts Digestion: The natural fermentation helps promote gut health.
- Rich in Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, B, and C, and essential minerals.
- Supports Immunity: Probiotics contribute to overall immune function.
- Adds Flavor Naturally: Reduces the need for heavy sauces or salt.
Adding kimchi is an easy way to give your comfort food a nutritious upgrade.
🧠 FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
1. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwich early, but cook it right before serving for the best crisp texture.
2. What can I use instead of corned beef?
Try pastrami for smoky flavor, roast beef for a leaner bite, or turkey for a lighter option.
3. Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Use tofu or tempeh, vegan Swiss cheese, and plant-based butter.
4. Can I use different cheese?
Definitely. Gruyère, Jarlsberg, or provolone all melt beautifully and offer unique flavors.
5. What kind of kimchi works best?
Traditional napa cabbage kimchi gives the best texture and tang. Avoid overly watery kimchi — drain before use.
6. How do I make it extra crispy?
Preheat your skillet well and butter both sides of the bread. Use medium heat so it browns without burning.
7. Is it spicy?
That depends on your kimchi. Mild versions add tang without too much heat, while spicy kimchi can bring a fiery kick.
8. Can I serve it cold?
It’s best enjoyed hot and melty, but you can enjoy it at room temperature if packed for lunch.
9. What can I serve as a drink with it?
Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a light beer pairs perfectly.
10. How do I scale up this recipe for a group?
Simply multiply the ingredients and cook in batches using a large griddle or skillet.
🍞 Chef’s Insight: Why This Recipe Works So Well
This sandwich hits every sensory note:
- Texture: Crisp bread, soft cheese, tender beef.
- Flavor: The saltiness of beef meets the bright acidity of kimchi.
- Temperature: Warm and melty inside, perfectly toasty outside.
The beauty of this fusion recipe lies in its balance — the heat of kimchi doesn’t overpower, it enhances. It’s proof that comfort food can evolve, staying true to its roots while embracing global flavors.
🌍 Cultural Fusion Story
The original Reuben sandwich traces back to early 20th-century New York delis, where corned beef and sauerkraut defined hearty lunch fare. Meanwhile, kimchi has been a Korean culinary tradition for over 3,000 years.
Bringing the two together is more than just a flavor experiment — it’s a celebration of culinary creativity and cultural connection. The Kimchi Reuben symbolizes how food transcends borders, blending traditions to create something new and deliciously modern.
🧀 Pairing Ideas for a Full Meal Experience
If you’re turning this sandwich into a full meal, consider these pairings for a restaurant-worthy presentation:
- Appetizer: A light miso soup or cucumber salad.
- Main Course: The Kimchi Reuben, served hot with a side of baked potato wedges.
- Dessert: A scoop of mango sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a cool contrast.
- Drink: Chilled ginger ale, kombucha, or sparkling water.
💬 Expert Serving Tips
- Cut diagonally for better presentation and easier dipping.
- Serve on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a café-style touch.
- Add a small bowl of dressing on the side for dipping.
- For extra indulgence, brush the bread edges with melted butter before grilling.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving for an Asian-inspired garnish.
📸 Presentation Idea
If you’re sharing on social media or Pinterest, stack your sandwich halves slightly apart, showing the layers of corned beef, kimchi, and cheese. Use natural lighting and a simple white or wooden background — the red-orange hue of kimchi pops beautifully against neutral tones.
Suggested caption:
“Crispy, melty, tangy perfection in every bite — meet the Kimchi Reuben that redefines comfort food! 🥪🔥 #FusionFood #EasyRecipes #KimchiReuben”
❤️ Final Thoughts
The Best Kimchi Reuben Recipe proves that the simplest ideas can deliver the most extraordinary flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a sandwich that feels indulgent yet modern, comforting yet adventurous.
It’s the kind of meal that makes people pause after the first bite — a little surprised, a lot delighted, and definitely asking for seconds.
