The magic of prime rib doesn’t vanish overnight, it just needs a new way to shine. You could always reheat it and eat it as it is, but where’s the fun in that? After all, the marbled, slow-roasted spectacle has dwindled, so rather than trying to salvage what’s left, why not utilize it elsewhere? In a Reuben sandwich, where flavor complexity is always appreciated, leftover prime rib fits right in. When you let it mingle with melted cheese and sauerkraut, that’s when its glorious flavor comes to life once again.
You’re probably thinking: “What’s a Reuben sandwich without corned beef?”. Well, the great thing about sandwiches is they’re endlessly adaptable. Cooking corned beef at home can be quite a laborious affair, and sometimes, canned corned beef just doesn’t hit the spot. Leftover prime rib offers an easy, effortless shortcut. Although not entirely the same, it does have that meaty richness you often search for in a Reuben sandwich. Where corned beef leans on brine and salt for impact, prime rib brings a savory depth and smokiness that makes regular Reuben sandwiches pale in comparison.
Biting into the sandwich, you’re rewarded with layer after layer of textural excellence. The crisp, golden rye crust gives way to the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, mingling with crunchy sauerkraut and gooey, melted cheese. It’s a marvelous interplay of texture and flavors, coming together in a balanced, exciting harmony.
Don’t underestimate the power of leftovers
Nothing about your Reuben sandwich routine has to change with this meat swap. Since the sandwich meets the heat in the end anyway, you can even skip reheating the prime rib if you want. Just thinly slice it, layer it with the remaining ingredients, and bring everything together with a quick, buttery sear on both sides. Easy, breezy, and oh-so-delicious.
With less time spent on preparing the protein, you can focus on other additions to further diversify the sandwich. Caramelized onions, with their savory-sweet glory, couldn’t be more of a perfect match for the roasted meat. Pair them with a spicy horseradish mayo dressing, you can have a gourmet eating experience right in the palm of your hand. Prime rib is often served with roasted vegetables, so if you have any leftovers, feel free to include a few pieces as well. Got some meat drippings still hanging around? Don’t let it go to waste. Make a gravy and replace the usual creamy dressing for an even richer taste profile. Another option is to turn it into an au jus sauce. Although not compulsory, a dipping sauce on the side would make the sandwich even more irresistible.
