My Reuben Sauce Recipe is a very good thing to dress the slices of rye bread on Reuben sandwiches. The classic Reuben sandwich is a New York City staple, originating from the Blackstone Hotel. A masterpiece of corned beef, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing, all sandwiched between two slices of rye bread. And while the sandwich is divine, it's the homemade Russian dressing that really brings all the flavors together. This sauce is perfect on my Reuben Sandwich.
WHAT'S SO GOOD ABOUT THIS RECIPE?
This Reuben sauce recipe captures the essence of a classic Reuben sandwich in all its glory. Straight from the bustling streets of New York City to your kitchen, the sauce is flavorful in every bite. The blend of ingredients creates a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the layers of corned beef and melted Swiss cheese. Its rich, velvety texture clings to every inch of rye bread, ensuring every bite is a delightful mix of the sauce and sandwich fillings.
Unlike the traditional Thousand Island dressing, our sauce boasts a depth of flavor, elevating it from just another dressing to a star in its own right. Each component, from the grated onion to the dash of Hungarian paprika, plays a crucial role in delivering an unparalleled taste. It's a versatile recipe; not only does it make Reuben sandwiches irresistibly good, but it's also a fantastic addition to various dishes needing a creamy, tangy boost. Think of this sauce as an ode to the best Reuben sandwiches you've ever had-a homage to the rich culinary traditions of New York City. With this recipe in your collection, every meal can have a touch of that classic Reuben magic.
IS THIS RECIPE BUDGET-FRIENDLY
Yes, this Reuben sauce recipe fits the "cheap" category on my blog. Creating a flavor-packed sauce doesn't have to be expensive. And trust me, all my recipes are good!
INGREDIENTS FOR MY REUBEN SAUCE RECIPE
Using the best quality ingredients will make the best Reuben sauce!
For the full recipe with quantities, see the recipe card at the end of the post.
INGREDIENT NOTES
- Prepared horseradish: Adds that characteristic tangy kick. Use what you like, prepared or cream style. Use more or less to taste. I like to use prepared, not cream style because it packs more of a punch, and makes for a more delicious sandwich, which we like.
- Grated onion: Essential for a burst of fresh flavor. Don't skip the juice-it contributes to the sauce's texture and richness. You will be grating the onion and using the juice as well. The juice really makes it very tasty.
- Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient that deepens the sauce's taste.
- Hungarian paprika: Opt for either sweet or hot, depending on your preference. I use Sweet Hungarian Paprika.
- Celery seed: Always add that familiar flavor to the classic Reuben sandwich recipe.
- Mayonnaise: Use good mayonnaise for this, not lite mayo or Miracle Whip.
SUBSTITUTIONS
- Ketchup: Can substitute with chili sauce for a spicier kick.
- Horseradish: Dijon mustard can be a backup, but it will change the flavor profile. You could also add hot sauce and sour cream if you don't like horseradish.
- Celery seed: A dash of hot sauce could do if you're out of celery seed.
VARIATIONS
- Rachel sandwich style: Swap the corned beef for turkey and you'll need this sauce! This is the turkey version of a good Reuben!
- With a twist: Introduce pickle relish for an added dimension of taste. Some people like to add sweet pickle relish, chopped dill pickles, or Dijon mustard.
EQUIPMENT
A small bowl and a whisk or spatula are essential. Store your sauce in a jar, ready to serve alongside some potato chips or french fries. This dressing makes the best sauce for dipping fries or chips.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
While both have mayonnaise and ketchup, our Reuben sauce is tangier and richer, thanks to ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and horseradish.
Absolutely! It pairs well with potato salad, especially. And you'll never need any salad dressing but this sauce for your shrimp Louie salads.
Stored in a refrigerator, it lasts for about a week.
PRO COOKING TIPS
- If you're spreading this on slices of rye bread for a Reuben sandwich, do so on the side of each slice of bread to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Ensure your sauce is at room temperature when spreading it on a slice of bread, especially if you're planning on toasting or grilling.
Equipment
- 1 Medium bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 3 tablespoons grated onion plus juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Hungarian paprika Sweet or hot (optional)
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients on a bowl until fully incorporated. Keep in a covered jar in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
Every Reuben sandwich recipe requires the right dressing to elevate it from good to unforgettable. Our homemade Reuben Sauce Recipe ensures that your sandwiches are the talk of the table. Whether it's accompanying a traditional Reuben, a Rachel sandwich variation, or just as a dip for your potato fries, the tangy, creamy delight is bound to be a hit. Enjoy, and always remember, cooking for two doesn't mean skimping on flavor or breaking the bank!
Donna says
This dressing for our R
eubens had just the right amount of Zing! Delicious!
Mary says
Love that zing!
Karla says
Used this as a base sauce and it is excellent! I added a couple of splashes of a Louisiana garlic sauce & pepper sauce. Ground some fresh horseradish which jumps it up a level (just preference and availability). Also added about 2 Tbsp chopped spicy Italian olives for a bit of briny taste, could use small amounts of chopped capers instead! Such an excellent sauce and easy to tailor to your tastes! Fresh rye bread baking (made with fresh ground rye flour), homemade fermented sauerkraut, homemade smoked pastrami with Swiss all for the perfect grilled Rueben! Just doesn’t get any better my all time favorite! This sauce completes the perfect sandwich!!
Mary says
Wow! I am glad you liked it and made it your own! I will try your tweaks next time. Thanks so much!
Heather says
Great recipe! I didn't have an onion so I just omitted it. Slathered it on our sandwich and it was perfection. Plenty leftover as it's just the 2 of us so I've sealed it up for a maybe a burger or a fry dip.
Bobbi says
Delicious! Thanks for the base recipe! We deleted the celery, added one boiled egg and 2 Tbl dill pickle, then put in the food processor for 30 sec.
Mary says
Thanks for commenting! I am glad you were able to make it your own. We had Reuben's last night and I put enough hot horseradish in to kill a horse, but man was it good! We love the celery seed but hubby is a pickle hater so no pickles for me.
SHAHEEN says
THANKS FOR THIS RECIPE
Mary says
Thank you so much! It is one of my favorites.
Rodd Hall says
I'm planning to make your Reuben Sauce for my St. Patrick's Day Reuben sandwiches. The photo of the ingredients on your web page https://ohthatsgood.com/reuben-sauce-recipe-russian-dressing/ shows Hungarian Sweet Paprika, but the recipe doesn't include it, nor say how much to use. Should I put paprika in the sauce and if so, how much? Thanks in advance for your advice.
Mary says
It is optional. I added it to the recipe as an optional ingredient with an enthusiastic recommendation. I too am making Reuben sandwiches tomorrow! Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Dottie W. says
This Russian sauce was excellent. Everyone loved it. Easy to make and I can see us using on our burgers too.
Mary says
It is great on salads too!