Sides For Reuben Sandwich

Okay, let’s talk about the Reuben sandwich. It’s a glorious, messy masterpiece of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled to buttery perfection. But here’s the real debate: what do you serve with this magnificent beast? You can’t just hand someone a Reuben naked on a plate—it needs a wingman.

The Classic Crunch: Potato Chips

Let’s start with the obvious, the no-brainer: a handful of potato chips. There’s a reason delis do this. The salty, crispy crunch cuts through the rich, gooey Reuben like a tiny flavor ninja.

Go for kettle-cooked chips for extra structural integrity—they won’t wimp out under the pressure. Fancy it up with a side of dill pickle spears for that extra sour punch. It’s simple, it’s perfect, and your fingers will be salty in the best way.

Soup-er Sidekicks

If you want to get a little fancy (but not too fancy), soup is your best friend. A warm bowl of tomato soup is the Reuben’s soulmate. The tangy, sweet tomato is like a hug for all that salty, savory meat.

For a double-dose of Eastern European comfort, try a cup of matzo ball soup or beef barley. The soft, dumpling-y goodness of matzo ball is a textural vacation from all that crunch. Just don’t spill the soup on your sandwich—we’re not savages.

The Bold & The Beautiful: Coleslaw

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Coleslaw? Really?” Yes, really. But not the sad, watery, mayonnaise-drenched stuff from a fast-food joint. We’re talking a vinegar-based, tangy slaw with lots of cracked black pepper.

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

The acid from the vinegar works wonders against the fatty corned beef and melted cheese. It’s like a little refresh button for your taste buds between giant, glorious bites. Plus, it makes you feel like you’re eating a vegetable, which is a delightful lie we all need sometimes.

Pickle Platter Power

Never underestimate the power of a pickle platter. We’re talking a mix of sour dills, half-sours, maybe even a spicy pickle or two. The cold, briny snap is a perfect counterbalance to the hot, melty sandwich.

Pro tip: split a pickle spear open and lay it inside the Reuben. It’s a secret upgrade that will make you feel like a culinary genius. Your friends will be impressed, but you can just wink and take another bite.

Get Your Greens On (Sort Of)

If you’re feeling virtuous (or just want to pretend you are), go for a simple green salad. But for the love of all that is holy, dress it with a vinaigrette. Ranch or blue cheese dressing will just compete with the Russian dressing, and that’s a condiment civil war nobody wants.

What To Serve With Reuben Sandwiches: 6 Best Side Dishes (Updated 2026)

A light, mustardy vinaigrette or a lemon-herb one will wake up your palate. Add some crunchy radishes or cucumber for extra texture. You’ll finish feeling like you’ve conquered both your cravings and your conscience.

The Unexpected Knight: Sweet Potato Fries

Regular fries are fine, but sweet potato fries are the rockstar friend who shows up unannounced and makes the party better. Their natural sweetness is a magical foil to the Reuben’s saltiness. Dip them in something fun like a chipotle aioli or even a little honey.

The contrast—hot, sweet, salty, tangy—will make your brain do a happy little flip. Just be warned: you might start eating the fries first, and then the sandwich gets jealous. Manage your plate’s emotions responsibly.

What to Serve With Reuben Sandwiches: 8 Classic Sides - Insanely Good

Don’t Forget the Drinks

You can’t have a party without a beverage, right? A cold, crisp beer—like a pilsner or a light lager—is the Reuben’s dance partner. The bubbles scrape your palate clean after each bite.

For a non-alcoholic option, try an egg cream (a vintage New York soda fountain classic) or a black cherry seltzer. The fizz and fruit notes are like a tiny, bubbly parade in your mouth. Avoid milk—that’s just asking for a stomach ache with all that cheese.

The Uplifting Conclusion (We Promised!)

So here’s the thing: the best side for a Reuben sandwich is the one that makes you happy. Whether it’s a pile of chips, a bowl of soup, or a daring sweet potato fry, the real magic is in the company you keep. Life is too short for boring sides.

Take a big bite of that Reuben, chase it with a pickle, and laugh with your friends. You’ve earned this delicious, messy, perfect moment. And remember: a sandwich is just a sandwich, but a Reuben with the right side is a celebration. Go forth and crunch, my friend.