BBQ Reuben Grilled Sandwich Recipe: Cc’s Classic

I’m thrilled to share my BBQ Reuben grilled sandwich recipe with you today! This isn’t your ordinary Reuben, I’ve added a barbecue twist that makes it absolutely irresistible. The combination of tender corned beef, gooey Swiss cheese, and my special tangy slaw creates a flavour explosion that’ll have you coming back for seconds. It’s become such a hit at my house that my friends named it “Cc’s Classic.” Want to know my secret to getting that perfect crispy exterior while keeping all that delicious filling melty inside?

Why You’ll Love this Barbecue Reuben Grilled Sandwich

If you’re a fan of classic deli sandwiches but crave something with a twist, this BBQ Reuben Grilled Sandwich will knock your socks off!

I’ve taken the time-honoured combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy slaw but added my own special touch to create something truly mouthwatering.

What makes this sandwich special is the balance of flavours. Instead of traditional sauerkraut, I use a tender cabbage slaw sweetened with apple cider mix.

When savouring flavours like these, you’re actually participating in sandwich history that dates back to the early 1900s!

The oven-grilling method means your sandwich gets perfectly toasted without the mess of stovetop cooking.

Plus, by using reduced-fat cheese and lean corned beef, you get all the deliciousness with less guilt.

Trust me, this will become your new comfort food favourite!

What ingredients are in a Barbecue Reuben Grilled Sandwich?

To make this delicious BBQ Reuben Grilled Sandwich, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. The combination of tender corned beef, melty cheese, and a sweet-tangy slaw creates that perfect balance of flavours we all crave in a proper Reuben.

What’s brilliant about this recipe is how the oven-grilling method gives you that perfect toasted finish without having to stand over a hot hob.

• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon instant apple cider drink mix
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 tablespoon reduced-fat mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 slices rye bread
• Non-stick cooking spray
• 4 slices reduced-fat Swiss cheese (about 1/2 pound)
• 1/2 lb lean, thinly sliced corned beef (julienned or shaved)

When shopping for these ingredients, the quality of your corned beef makes a real difference, try to find a lean cut that’s sliced paper-thin for the best texture.

And while traditional Reubens use sauerkraut, our version swaps it for a sweeter cabbage slaw that’s more approachable for those who find sauerkraut a bit too tangy.

Don’t fancy reduced-fat cheese? You can definitely use full-fat Swiss if you prefer a richer sandwich.

And the rye bread? It’s non-negotiable for an authentic Reuben experience, providing that distinctive flavour that brings everything together.

How to Make this Barbecue Reuben Toasted Sandwich

Making this delicious BBQ Reuben on your outdoor grill gives it an extra dimension of smoky flavour that you simply can’t achieve in a regular kitchen. To get started, preheat your BBQ for indirect cooking to about 230°C (450°F). If you’re using a Kamado-style BBQ, set up your heat deflectors, or on a standard barbecue, just light one side and cook on the unlit side.

First, prepare your tangy slaw by combining 3 tablespoons of cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon of instant apple cider drink mix in a small pot that can go on your BBQ’s direct heat zone or plancha. Once the mixture’s warm and the apple cider mix has dissolved, add 1/2 cup of shredded cabbage, cover, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender. Keep giving it a stir every now and then.

Remove the lid and let any remaining liquid evaporate for another minute or two – nobody wants a soggy sandwich, do they? While that’s happening, mix 1 tablespoon of reduced-fat mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard in a small bowl.

Now for the assembly: place a piece of parchment paper on a baking tray that can go on your BBQ. Spray one side of each slice of rye bread with non-stick cooking spray and place them spray-side down on the parchment. Spread the mayo-mustard mixture on the facing sides, then layer with 1 slice of reduced-fat Swiss cheese, your cooked slaw, 1/2 pound of thinly sliced corned beef, and top with another slice of cheese.

Place the tray on the indirect heat side of your BBQ, close the lid, and let it cook for about 10 minutes until the bread is toasty and the cheese has melted. The result? A gloriously melty, slightly smoky BBQ Reuben that might just be better than any you’ve had before.

Barbecue Reuben Grilled Sandwich Substitutions and Variations

1. Direct Grilling: Place sandwich on a cast iron griddle or plancha over medium coals (300-350°F).

Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.

2. Indirect Heat Method: Set up BBQ for indirect cooking at 400-450°F.

Place sandwiches on the cooler side and close the lid for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melty.

Variations

• Bread Options: Substitute sourdough or pumpernickel for rye.
• Meat Alternatives: Swap corned beef with pastrami, smoked turkey, or pulled pork.
• Cheese Options: Try provolone, gouda, or gruyère instead of Swiss.
• Slaw Upgrades: Add caraway seeds to cabbage mix or use pre-made coleslaw for convenience.
• Sauce Variations: Add BBQ sauce to mayo-mustard mixture for a smoky twist.

BBQ-Specific Tips

• Brush grates with oil before cooking to prevent sticking.
• Toast bread on direct heat first before assembling and finishing sandwiches.
• Use a cast iron press for even toasting and melting.
• For smoky flavour, add wood chips (apple or hickory work well) during cooking.
• Allow 10-15 minutes of preheating time for consistent temperature.

What to Serve with Barbecue Reuben Toasted Sandwich

What side dishes perfectly complement a smoky barbecue Reuben sandwich?

I’ve found that crispy potato crisps or a tangy potato salad make ideal sides pairing with this hearty sandwich. A simple dill pickle spear adds that perfect crunch and acidic balance to cut through the richness.

For drink options, you can’t go wrong with a cold craft beer – I recommend a hoppy IPA or a smooth amber ale. Not into beer? Try a sparkling lemonade or even an iced tea with mint.

If you’re feeling fancy, whip up some sweet potato fries dusted with smoked paprika.

They echo the smoky flavours in your BBQ Reuben while adding a touch of sweetness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Final Thoughts

Although this BBQ Reuben sandwich might seem like a simple lunch option, I’ve found it’s truly one of those special recipes that brings together the best of both worlds – classic deli flavours with smoky barbecue notes.

When making this at home, don’t rush the cabbage cooking process—it’s what gives the sandwich that perfect tender crunch.

For some tasty sandwich variations, try using turkey instead of corned beef for a lighter version, or swap the Swiss for provolone if that’s more your style.

You could even add a thin layer of BBQ sauce to really amp up that smoky flavour profile.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try next time you’re craving something comforting yet special. It’s quickly become my go-to weekend lunch!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare any components of this sandwich ahead of time?

I’m thrilled to tell you these prep techniques are absolutely LIFE-CHANGING! You can make the slaw mixture ahead, storing it properly in your refrigerator, and pre-slice your corned beef for quicker assembly.

How Long Will Leftover Sandwiches Keep in the Fridge?

I would recommend storing leftovers for only 1-2 days in an airtight container. Leftover storage affects sandwich freshness, as the bread may become soggy and ingredients lose their ideal texture.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Outdoor Barbecuing?

Like a fish out of water, I wouldn’t recommend this recipe for outdoor grilling. It’s designed for oven grilling techniques, not outdoor cooking where controlling the heat becomes trickier.

What is the calorie count and nutritional information for one sandwich?

I don’t have the exact calorie breakdown for this sandwich in my data. You’ll obtain nutritional benefits from the lean corned beef and reduced-fat cheese, but you would need to calculate the specifics separately.

Can I freeze these sandwiches for later consumption?

I would absolutely advise against freezing these magnificent creations! For optimal sandwich storage, assemble the ingredients fresh before cooking. If you must, freeze the components separately with proper freezing tips – never the assembled sandwich!