Reuben Quesadillas Recipe

There's nothing like the satisfying crunch of a freshly grilled quesadilla, especially when it’s packed with the bold flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich. Tangy sauerkraut, gooey melted cheese, savory corned beef, and creamy Thousand Island dressing come together in a buttery tortilla for a mouthwatering twist on two beloved dishes.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe as a creative solution for leftover corned beef, and it instantly became a family favorite. These Reuben Quesadillas are quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible – ideal for a busy weeknight or casual lunch.

Why You’ll Love These Reuben Quesadillas

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food. These Reuben Quesadillas are everything you didn’t know you needed in a meal!

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip these up in under 20 minutes. Perfect for when you’re short on time but still craving something delicious.

The flavor combination is unbeatable. The classic Reuben sandwich flavors – salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and melty cheese – are a match made in heaven with the crispy, buttery tortilla.

They’re great for using up leftovers. Got extra corned beef or a jar of sauerkraut lingering in the fridge? This recipe gives them new life in the most delicious way possible.

Finally, these quesadillas are customizable and kid-friendly. Whether you need to tone down the sauerkraut for picky eaters or prefer a spicier take with some added mustard, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Reuben Quesadillas lies in their simple, yet perfectly chosen ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Corned Beef: Opt for thinly sliced corned beef from the deli counter, or use leftovers from a corned beef roast. It’s the heart of the Reuben flavor, so don’t skimp on quality.
• Swiss Cheese: This is the classic cheese for a Reuben, offering a nutty, creamy flavor that melts beautifully. If Swiss isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with provolone or mozzarella.
• Sauerkraut: Adds a tangy kick that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Be sure to drain and squeeze out excess liquid to avoid soggy quesadillas.
• Thousand Island Dressing: The creamy element that ties everything together. You can use store-bought or make your own with mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickle relish.
• Tortillas: Flour tortillas are the perfect vehicle for this recipe, crisping up beautifully in the pan. Choose 8- or 10-inch tortillas for the best size.
• Butter: Brushing the tortillas with melted butter ensures a golden, crispy exterior.

No special equipment is needed – just a large skillet or griddle for cooking.

How to Make Reuben Quesadillas

Making these Reuben Quesadillas is a breeze, even if you’re new to cooking. Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Prepare the Filling: Start by prepping your ingredients. Shred the Swiss cheese, drain the sauerkraut, and slice or chop the corned beef into bite-sized pieces. This will make assembly quick and seamless.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay a tortilla flat and spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing on one side. Top with a layer of shredded Swiss cheese, a sprinkle of sauerkraut, and a generous amount of corned beef. Add another layer of cheese on top for maximum meltiness, then place a second tortilla on top.
3. Cook the Quesadillas: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush it with melted butter. Carefully place the quesadilla in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Use a spatula to press down gently while cooking for even browning.
4. Slice and Serve: Transfer the cooked quesadilla to a cutting board and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges. Serve hot with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.

These quesadillas come together in about 15 minutes, making them a fast and satisfying meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), these quesadillas store well and reheat beautifully.

• Refrigerator: Place cooled quesadilla slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these Reuben Quesadillas is their versatility. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Turkey Reuben Quesadillas: Swap the corned beef for sliced turkey for a lighter twist.
• Spicy Reuben Quesadillas: Add a drizzle of spicy mustard or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a zesty kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meatless option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas and double-check that your sauerkraut and dressing are also gluten-free.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with sharp cheddar, Havarti, or a blend of cheeses to switch up the flavor profile.

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Reuben Quesadillas are the perfect mix of comfort and creativity. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a way to use up leftovers, or a fun twist on a classic, this recipe has you covered. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy this crispy, cheesy delight!

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