Tasty Reuben Quesadillas Recipe: A Savory Twist on a Classic

Crafting the perfect reuben quesadillas combines classic deli flavors with a playful twist that surprises hungry appetites.

Layers of corned beef, swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut melt together between crispy tortillas.

Rustic deli traditions meet modern kitchen creativity in this mouthwatering fusion.

Rich, savory ingredients dance across your plate with unexpected charm.

Comfort food enthusiasts will adore this innovative take on a beloved sandwich.

Each bite promises a delightful explosion of traditional reuben elements wrapped in a convenient, handheld format.

FAQs

• What makes Reuben Quesadillas different from a traditional Reuben sandwich?

These quesadillas combine the classic Reuben sandwich flavors with a Mexican-style tortilla preparation, creating a crispy, melty fusion dish that offers a unique twist on the traditional deli sandwich.

• Can I use a different type of cheese if I don't have Swiss cheese?

While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute with provolone or mild cheddar cheese, which will still provide a creamy melting quality that complements the corned beef and sauerkraut.

• Is this recipe considered a quick meal?

Yes, Reuben Quesadillas are super fast to prepare, taking only about 10 minutes total from start to finish, making them perfect for a quick lunch or easy dinner option.

Reuben Quesadillas: Why You Need To Try

• Fusion Flavor Explosion: Blend classic Reuben sandwich ingredients with quesadilla style, creating a mouthwatering twist that surprises taste buds with familiar yet unexpected flavors.
• Quick Comfort Meal: Whip up this delicious dish in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or sudden hunger pangs when you want something satisfying and hearty without complicated cooking steps.
• Kid and Adult Friendly: Combine melted cheese, tender corned beef, and tangy sauerkraut in a crispy tortilla that appeals to both children and grown-ups, making it an ideal family dinner option.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: Requires just a few simple ingredients like tortillas, Swiss cheese, corned beef, and Thousand Island dressing, allowing even novice cooks to create a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal kitchen skills.

Gather These For Reuben Quesadillas

• Tortillas: Soft, flexible base for creating a delicious quesadilla version of a classic Reuben sandwich.
• Corned Beef: Savory, tender meat that provides the signature protein for this fusion dish.
• Swiss Cheese: Creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully and adds rich flavor.
• Sauerkraut: Tangy, fermented cabbage that brings traditional Reuben sandwich authenticity.

• Thousand Island Dressing, Butter: Creamy dressing that adds signature Reuben flavor and butter helps create a golden, crispy exterior.

• Salt, Pepper: Optional seasonings to enhance the overall taste of the quesadillas if desired.

How To Make Reuben Quesadillas Like A Pro

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Surface

Heat a skillet over medium temperature.

Softly spread butter on one side of each tortilla, ensuring complete coverage for a golden, crispy exterior.

Step 2: Create the First Quesadilla Base

Position a tortilla in the skillet with the buttered side facing down.

Generously spread Thousand Island dressing across the tortilla’s surface, creating a tangy foundation.

Step 3: Build Delicious Layers

• Shredded Swiss cheese
• Tender corned beef
• Zesty sauerkraut

Distribute ingredients evenly to guarantee a perfect bite in every slice.

Step 4: Complete the Quesadilla Structure

Place the second tortilla on top, positioning the buttered side facing upward.

Gently press down to secure the layers.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Allow the quesadilla to sizzle for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Watch for a beautiful golden-brown color and listen for the cheese melting and ingredients heating through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board.

Slice into wedge-shaped portions.

Serve immediately while warm and crispy, ready to delight hungry diners.

Pro Chef Reuben Quesadilla Tips

• Spread butter evenly on tortillas for a golden, crispy exterior that adds rich flavor and perfect crunch.
• Use freshly shredded Swiss cheese for smoother melting and more even distribution throughout the quesadilla.
• Pat sauerkraut dry with paper towels to prevent soggy quesadillas and maintain a crisp texture.
• Cook on medium heat to ensure the tortilla browns slowly while allowing the cheese to melt completely without burning.
• Replace corned beef with pastrami or turkey for different flavor profiles, making the recipe versatile for various dietary preferences.

Reuben Quesadillas – Tasty Twists To Try

• Vegetarian Reuben Quesadillas: Replace corned beef with grilled portobello mushrooms or tempeh, maintaining the classic sauerkraut and Swiss cheese flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use corn tortillas instead of wheat tortillas and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with sensitivities.
• Lighter Option: Swap butter with olive oil spray, use low-fat Swiss cheese, and add fresh spinach for extra nutrition without compromising taste.
• Spicy Southwest Adaptation: Incorporate jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, and add a dash of chipotle powder to the Thousand Island dressing for a zesty kick.

Serving Up Reuben Quesadillas At Parties

• Deli Delight Plating: Serve these quesadillas on a rustic wooden board with a small ramekin of extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
• Kraut Companion: Pair with a crisp pickle spear or small side of tangy coleslaw to complement the rich, savory flavors of the corned beef.
• Hearty Lunch Move: Transform this into a complete meal by adding a light mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the quesadilla's richness.
• Quick Crowd Pleaser: Cut into smaller triangles for appetizer-style bites perfect for game day or casual gathering with friends.

Keeping Reuben Quesadillas Fresh Longer

• Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual quesadillas tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain best quality and taste.
• Place quesadilla on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-45 seconds, checking halfway to ensure even warming. Add a damp paper towel to prevent dryness.
• Warm quesadillas in a lightly buttered skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side to restore crispy texture and melted cheese.

Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

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4.5 from 35 reviews

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

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Description

Reuben quesadillas merge classic deli sandwich flavors with crispy tortilla magic. Melted swiss, tangy sauerkraut, and tender corned beef create a mouthwatering fusion that satisfies you with each savory bite.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 1 cup corned beef, shredded or thinly sliced
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

Bread/Wrapper:

• 4 large flour tortillas

Condiments and Extras:

• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) thousand island dressing
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) butter

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Instructions

1. Prepare a medium-heat skillet and lightly coat one side of each tortilla with softened butter.
2. Position the first tortilla butter-side down in the skillet, then generously spread Thousand Island dressing across its surface.
3. Create a delectable layer by evenly distributing shredded Swiss cheese, tender corned beef, and tangy sauerkraut over the dressed tortilla.
4. Carefully crown the layered tortilla with a second tortilla, ensuring the butter side faces upward.
5. Allow the quesadilla to sizzle for 2-3 minutes on each side, watching for a golden-brown crust and completely melted cheese.
6. Transfer the crispy quesadilla to a cutting board, slice into triangular wedges, and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Enhance flavor by using clarified butter for a crispier, golden-brown tortilla exterior without burning.
• Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent soggy quesadillas and maintain a perfect crisp texture.
• Swap corned beef with pastrami or turkey for different protein variations and dietary preferences.
• Use low-fat Swiss cheese and Greek yogurt-based Thousand Island dressing for a lighter, healthier version of the classic Reuben quesadilla.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg