The Reuben Pizza: A Delicious Reinvention of a Deli Classic

I remember the first time I encountered a Reuben sandwich. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, the kind that beckons you indoors to the warmth of a cozy diner. The aroma of toasted rye, tangy sauerkraut, and melting Swiss cheese was intoxicating. That first bite – a perfect symphony of salty corned beef, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and that delightful sour crunch – was an epiphany. It wasn’t just a sandwich; it was a flavor experience, a comforting hug in edible form. For years, the Reuben remained my go-to order, a benchmark against which all other deli creations were measured. Then, one day, a spark of culinary curiosity ignited. What if I could capture that iconic flavor profile, that irresistible combination, and translate it onto a different canvas? What if the humble pizza crust could become the vessel for this beloved classic? The result? A revelation. This Reuben Pizza isn’t just a novelty; it’s a genuine, deeply satisfying evolution of a beloved dish, a testament to how familiar flavors can shine in unexpected ways.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Yield: 2 (12-inch) pizzas
• Dietary Type: Standard

Ingredients

This recipe is designed to be delightfully straightforward, bringing the essence of a Reuben sandwich to your table with minimal fuss. We’re building layers of flavor that are both familiar and excitingly new.

For the Base and “Sauce”:

• 2 large Boboli pizza crusts (or your favorite pizza dough, prepared according to package directions). A note on crusts: While Boboli crusts offer unparalleled ease and a wonderfully consistent result, feel free to experiment with a homemade pizza dough for a more artisanal touch. If you choose homemade, ensure it’s pre-baked slightly before topping to prevent a soggy bottom.
• 2 cups Miracle Whip (or a good quality Thousand Island dressing)
• 2 tablespoons mustard (yellow mustard is traditional and works beautifully here)
• 2 teaspoons horseradish sauce

For the Savory Toppings:

• 1 lb corned beef, finely chopped (leftover roast corned beef works wonderfully, or you can purchase pre-cooked corned beef from your deli counter)
• 2 cups sauerkraut, well-drained and patted dry (the drier the better to avoid excess moisture)
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

For the Finishing Touch:

• Sliced dill pickle, arranged like pepperoni

Equipment Needed

The beauty of this Reuben Pizza lies in its simplicity, requiring only basic kitchen tools to bring it to life.

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon for spreading
• Baking sheet or pizza stone (if using a pizza stone, follow manufacturer’s instructions for preheating)
• Oven

Instructions

Bringing this Reuben Pizza to life is an exercise in mindful layering, ensuring each component contributes to the final symphony of flavors.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. This ensures a wonderfully crisp crust.
2. Prepare the “Sauce.” In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Miracle Whip, mustard, and horseradish sauce. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and you have a smooth, creamy dressing. This mixture forms the flavorful base, mimicking the tangy dressing of a classic Reuben.
3. Assemble the Pizzas. Take your two Boboli pizza crusts (or your prepared pizza dough). Spread approximately 1 cup of the sauce mixture evenly over the surface of each crust, leaving a small border for the crust.
4. Layer the Corned Beef. Distribute half of the chopped corned beef evenly over the sauce on each pizza. Don’t be shy; the savory corned beef is a cornerstone of the Reuben flavor profile.
5. Add the Sauerkraut. Next, scatter half of the drained sauerkraut over the corned beef on each pizza. Ensure it’s spread out as evenly as possible.
6. Cheese, Please! Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut on each pizza. This melty, nutty cheese is essential to binding the flavors and creating that irresistible gooey texture.
7. The Pickle Pizzazz. Arrange the sliced dill pickles on top of the cheese, distributing them evenly across the pizzas. Think of them as your “pepperoni,” adding a bright, briny counterpoint to the richness of the other ingredients.
8. Bake to Perfection. Carefully place the assembled pizzas onto your preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
9. Rest and Serve. Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the pizzas from the oven. Allow them to rest for a minute or two before slicing. This brief resting period helps the toppings set slightly, making for cleaner slices.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Elevating your Reuben Pizza experience is all about attention to detail and understanding how to coax the best flavors from your ingredients.

• Draining the Sauerkraut is Key: This is perhaps the most crucial step for a successful Reuben Pizza. Excess moisture from the sauerkraut can make your pizza soggy. Squeeze it thoroughly with your hands or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out to remove as much liquid as possible.
• Chopping the Corned Beef: For optimal distribution and bite, ensure your corned beef is finely chopped. This allows it to meld better with the other toppings rather than having large, unwieldy chunks. If you’re using leftover roast, trimming any excess fat before chopping will also improve the overall texture.
• The “Sauce” Base: While Miracle Whip is specified for its characteristic tang, a good quality Thousand Island dressing is a perfectly acceptable substitute. You can even make your own by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and a touch of vinegar for a more customized flavor.
• Crust Options: The recipe specifically mentions Boboli crusts for their convenience, but don’t hesitate to use your favorite homemade pizza dough. If using a raw dough, par-baking it for 5-7 minutes before adding toppings can prevent a gummy crust and ensure it cooks through evenly.
• Pickle Placement: Arrange the pickle slices with intention. While they function like pepperoni, their role is also to add bursts of acidity. Spacing them evenly ensures you get that delightful pickle flavor with every bite.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

The Reuben Pizza is a star on its own, but a few thoughtful touches can elevate your presentation and ensure you can savor its deliciousness even after the meal.

Serve your hot, freshly baked Reuben Pizza immediately. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza. For a more complete deli experience, consider serving alongside a cup of hearty tomato soup or a classic dill pickle spear.

Leftover Reuben Pizza can be stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I find the best method is to warm slices in a toaster oven or a dry skillet over medium heat. This helps to crisp up the crust and melt the cheese again without making it soggy, which can sometimes happen in a microwave. For best results, reheat gently until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Please note that this nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	450-550 kcal	22-27%
Total Fat	25-35 g	32-45%
Saturated Fat	10-15 g	50-75%
Cholesterol	50-70 mg	17-23%
Sodium	1200-1800 mg	52-78%
Total Carbohydrate	25-35 g	9-13%
Dietary Fiber	1-2 g	4-8%
Sugars	4-8 g	8-16%
Protein	20-30 g	40-60%

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic Reuben combination is hard to beat, this pizza provides a fantastic canvas for your own culinary creativity.

• For a Gluten-Free Twist: Utilize a high-quality gluten-free pizza crust. Ensure all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
• Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the “sauce” mixture or use a spicier mustard like Dijon for an extra layer of heat.
• Beyond Swiss: While Swiss is traditional, a blend of Gruyère and mozzarella can also be delicious, offering a slightly different nutty and creamy profile.
• Corned Beef Alternative: If corned beef isn’t your preference, thinly sliced roast turkey or ham can also work, though they will alter the classic Reuben flavor significantly.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the sauce for the Reuben Pizza ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The “sauce” mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can save you a few minutes on pizza night.

Q: What is the best way to drain the sauerkraut to avoid a soggy pizza?
A: The most effective method is to place the sauerkraut in a fine-mesh sieve and press down firmly with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. For an even drier result, you can also wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out.

Q: My oven tends to run hot. How can I prevent the crust from burning before the cheese melts?
A: If your oven runs hot, consider placing the pizza on a lower rack, or even directly on the oven floor if you have a pizza stone. You can also lower the baking temperature slightly to 375°F (190°C) and extend the baking time by a few minutes.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese if I don’t have Swiss?
A: While Swiss cheese is integral to the Reuben flavor, a good quality Gruyère or even a sharp provolone can be used as substitutes. A blend of Swiss and mozzarella will also yield delicious results.

Q: How should I store leftover Reuben Pizza?
A: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain crispness.

Final Thoughts

The Reuben Pizza is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore the joyous intersection of comfort food and culinary innovation. It’s the perfect dish for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun gathering with friends, or simply when that craving for something bold and satisfying strikes. I encourage you to try this delightful reinvention and discover for yourself how a beloved classic can find new life on a pizza crust. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations – after all, the kitchen is your playground! Gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and prepare to be amazed by the delicious harmony of flavors this Reuben Pizza brings to your table.