Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

Savory Reuben Quesadillas Recipe: Fusion Comfort in Every Bite

Melted cheese and tangy flavors collide in these mouthwatering reuben quesadillas that blend classic deli sandwich elements with a crispy Mexican-inspired twist.

Corned beef, sauerkraut, and swiss cheese nestle between warm tortillas, creating a delightful fusion of culinary traditions.

The combination promises a quick and satisfying meal that breaks free from ordinary dinner routines.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory meat and zesty condiments.

The crisp exterior gives way to a melty, rich interior that will have you reaching for seconds.

These quesadillas transform a traditional sandwich into a handheld delight that sparks conversation and excitement.

Reuben Quesadillas: The Big Flavor Twist

  • Fusion Flavor Explosion: Blend classic Reuben sandwich flavors with the fun, crispy texture of quesadillas for a mouthwatering twist on two beloved favorites.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up a delicious meal in just minutes with simple ingredients and basic cooking skills, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous cravings.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Satisfy different taste buds with a universally appealing dish that combines tangy sauerkraut, rich corned beef, and melty Swiss cheese in a crispy tortilla package.
  • Customizable Delight: Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting ingredients or serving sizes, making it ideal for solo dinners, casual gatherings, or game day snacks.

Ingredients for Reuben Quesadillas

Main Ingredients:
  • Tortillas: Large, soft flour tortillas that create the crispy, golden exterior of the quesadilla.
  • Corned Beef: Tender, salty meat that provides a rich and savory protein base for the quesadilla.
  • Swiss Cheese: Mild, melty cheese that adds creamy texture and complements the other ingredients.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Thousand Island Dressing, Sauerkraut: Classic Reuben sandwich condiments that bring tangy and zesty notes to the quesadilla.
Cooking Components:
  • Butter: Helps create a golden, crisp exterior and adds richness to the quesadilla.

Cooking Reuben Quesadillas Easily

Step 1: Prepare the Skillet

Warm a skillet over medium heat and melt butter until it coats the bottom of the pan evenly.

Step 2: Create the First Layer

Place a tortilla in the heated skillet and spread Thousand Island dressing generously across its surface.

Step 3: Build the Delicious Filling

Layer the tortilla with ingredients:
  • Swiss cheese
  • Corned beef
  • Sauerkraut

Step 4: Add the Cheese Crown

Sprinkle another layer of Swiss cheese over the fillings.

Step 5: Top with Second Tortilla

Carefully place a second tortilla on top of the cheese and fillings.

Step 6: Crisp the First Side

Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes, gently pressing with a spatula until the bottom turns golden and crispy.

Step 7: Flip and Finish

Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until equally golden and crisp.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Remove the quesadilla from the skillet, slice into wedge-shaped pieces, and repeat the process with remaining ingredients.

Step 9: Enjoy with Dipping Sauce

Serve the Reuben quesadillas warm, accompanied by extra Thousand Island dressing for a delightful dipping experience.

Reuben Quesadilla Tips to Know

  • Use a non-stick skillet and melt butter slowly for even coating and golden crispiness.
  • Pat sauerkraut dry with paper towels to prevent soggy quesadillas and maintain crisp texture.
  • Spread cheese evenly to ensure melty coverage and prevent cold spots in your quesadilla.
  • Medium heat prevents burning while allowing tortillas to become perfectly golden and crisp.
  • Apply Thousand Island dressing sparingly to enhance flavor without making the tortilla soggy.

Quesadilla Variations for Reuben Lovers

  • Vegetarian Reuben Quesadilla: Replace corned beef with roasted portobello mushrooms or marinated tempeh for a meat-free version packed with savory flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of wheat tortillas and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Lighter Ranch Reuben Quesadilla: Swap Thousand Island dressing with Greek yogurt-based ranch for a lower-calorie alternative that still delivers tangy goodness.
  • Spicy Southwest Reuben: Add diced green chiles or jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese to create a zesty, southwestern-inspired quesadilla with extra kick.

Ways to Plate Reuben Quesadillas

  • Deli Dip Delight: Serve with a small bowl of extra Thousand Island dressing for guests to customize their dipping experience.
  • Kraut Companion: Pair with a side of cold, crisp dill pickles to complement the tangy sauerkraut and rich corned beef flavors.
  • Hearty Sidekick: Add a light coleslaw or mixed green salad to balance the richness of the quesadillas and provide a fresh contrast.
  • Beer Buddy Pairing: Enjoy with a cold amber lager or light beer that cuts through the quesadilla's richness and enhances the overall meal.

Storage for Leftover Reuben Quesadillas

  • Wrap cooled quesadillas tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent moisture.
  • Stack quesadillas between parchment paper layers, place in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 1 month. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Unwrap frozen or refrigerated quesadillas and place on a baking sheet. Warm for 10-12 minutes until crispy and heated through, turning once halfway.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients in Reuben Quesadillas?

The key ingredients are tortillas, Thousand Island dressing, Swiss cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut, which combine classic Reuben sandwich flavors in a quesadilla format.

  • Can I use a different type of cheese?

Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can substitute with provolone or mild cheddar if needed. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the corned beef.

  • How do I prevent the quesadilla from burning?

Cook over medium heat and watch carefully, using a spatula to gently press down and ensure even browning. The butter helps create a golden, crispy exterior without burning.

Print
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Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

Reuben Quesadillas Recipe


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4.9 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Reuben quesadillas blend classic deli sandwich flavors with Mexican-inspired comfort food. Melted swiss cheese, corned beef, and tangy sauerkraut create a crispy, irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup corned beef, chopped or sliced thin
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Condiments and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
  • 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (1 tbsp) unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat a large skillet to medium heat and delicately melt butter across the surface.
  2. Lay one tortilla flat in the heated skillet and generously spread Thousand Island dressing edge to edge.
  3. Create the first flavor layer by distributing Swiss cheese evenly across the dressing-coated tortilla.
  4. Arrange tender corned beef slices uniformly over the cheese, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. Sprinkle sauerkraut across the meat, providing a tangy and textural dimension to the quesadilla.
  6. Add a second cheese layer to help bind the fillings and enhance melting potential.
  7. Carefully position the companion tortilla atop the assembled ingredients, pressing gently.
  8. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom tortilla transforms into a golden, crispy exterior.
  9. Skillfully flip the quesadilla using a wide spatula, allowing the opposite side to achieve similar crispness.
  10. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until both sides reach a rich, appetizing color.
  11. Transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and slice into triangular wedges.
  12. Repeat the entire process with remaining ingredients to create a second quesadilla.
  13. Serve immediately alongside extra Thousand Island dressing for optional dipping.

Notes

  • Swap tortillas for gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions and make the dish celiac-friendly.
  • Reduce butter quantity or use olive oil spray for a lighter, heart-healthier version of the quesadilla.
  • Pat sauerkraut dry before adding to prevent excess moisture from making the tortilla soggy during cooking.
  • Select high-quality, thinly sliced corned beef from the deli counter for maximum flavor and tender texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 440 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 920 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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