What Goes With Reuben Sandwiches

Picture this: you've just assembled a glorious Reuben sandwich — that majestic tower of corned beef, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and Russian dressing — all grilled to crispy, buttery perfection. You take a triumphant bite, and then suddenly realize you have no idea what goes with it. Don't panic, friend. I've got you covered.

Chips: The Obvious MVP

Let's start with the classic move. A pile of pickle-flavored potato chips next to a Reuben is basically a love story written in salt and vinegar.

Kettle chips are particularly phenomenal here because their extra crunch plays beautifully against the sandwich's melty softness. It's like a drum solo between every bite.

If you're feeling fancy, grab some crinkle-cut dill pickle chips. They don't just accompany a Reuben — they practically propose marriage to it.

Pickle Spears: The Supporting Actor Nobody Talks About

Every hero needs a sidekick, and a cold, snappy pickle spear is the Robin to your Reuben's Batman. The acidity cuts through all that richness like a tiny, briny sword.

Did you know pickles were one of the first fast foods? Well, kind of. Ancient Mesopotamians fermented cucumbers over 4,000 years ago. Your Reuben has some seriously ancient company.

Go for sour dill spears from the deli jar — not the sad, flat ones from a vacuum-sealed grocery pack. Your sandwich deserves elegance.

French Fries: Because You Deserve Joy

French fries with a Reuben is the culinary equivalent of wearing sunglasses indoors — you know it's extra, and you're doing it anyway.

Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe - Saving Room for Dessert

Sweet potato fries add a subtle sweetness that plays surprisingly well against the salty, tangy sandwich. It's a flavor fireworks show on a single plate.

For maximum splendor, order curly fries. Nothing says "I've made responsible life decisions" like eating a Reuben with spirals of fried potato.

Coleslaw: The Polarizing Choice

Coleslaw divides people like pineapple on pizza. Some folks slap it right on top of their Reuben like a bonus layer of crunch. Others gasp in horror.

Here's the trick: a vinegar-based slaw (not the gloopy mayo kind) actually enhances everything. The crisp, acidic bite resets your palate between rich mouthfuls.

You can even put slaw inside the Reuben itself — a move some delis claim is genius and others call flat-out sacrilege. Bold? Absolutely. Delicious? Occasionally.

How To Cook Corned Beef For Reuben

Soup: The Cozy Contender

When the temperature drops, a steaming bowl of clam chowder or tomato soup beside a Reuben makes you feel like a hug from inside your own torso.

Tomato soup and a Reuben is an underrated combo, honestly. The sweet-tart soup and the savory sandwich dance together like they've been rehearsing all week.

Some delis even specialize in Reuben sandwiches with a side of mushroom and barley soup. That's not lunch — that's a whole philosophical experience.

A Slice of Drunken Fruit Cake (Stay With Me)

Before you raise an eyebrow, hear me out. Fruits soaked in alcohol, like drunken grapes or boozy cherries, make a dessert palate cleanser after a heavy Reuben.

It's a quirky finish, but the bright, sweet bite wipes away every trace of sauerkraut and cheese. Your taste buds will send you a thank-you card.

Top 30 Side Dishes that Pair Well with Reuben Sandwiches - Mothers

Some adventurous hangs even pair a Reuben with an actual glass of sauerkraut-brined vinaigrette on the side. Wild? Yes. Memorable? Also yes.

Beer, Because Obviously Beer

No discussion of Reuben pairings is complete without mentioning the golden elixir itself. A cold lager or amber ale is the drink that says, "I understand you, sandwich."

Lichtbier-style pale ales cut through the fat and salt like a knife through cream cheese — except way more socially acceptable at a midday lunch.

If you're abstaining, a sparkling ginger beer brings zing, heat, and effervescence that stands armor-to-armor against all that richness.

The Bottom Line

The Reuben is a bold, unapologetic sandwich that demands equally enthusiastic accompaniments. Whether you're reaching for chips, soup, slaw, or something wilder, the goal is the same: contrast, crunch, and pure delight.

Now get out there, build your perfect plate, and remember — a Reuben without a good side is like a movie without popcorn. You'll survive, but why would you choose to?