There’s something so satisfying about biting into a warm, messy, melty Reuben.
This vegan version hits all the right notes.
It’s got toasted rye bread, savory marinated tempeh or seitan, tangy sauerkraut, melty vegan cheese, and creamy Russian dressing.
It’s quick to make and tastes like something you’d get at a fancy deli.
🍞 What You’ll Need
- 8 slices rye bread
- 1 ½ cups sauerkraut (drained well)
- 8 oz seitan or tempeh (thinly sliced)
- 4 slices vegan Swiss or provolone cheese
- 2 tbsp vegan butter (softened)
- 4 tbsp vegan Russian dressing
For the Russian dressing:
- 1/3 cup vegan mayo
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tsp sweet pickle relish
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Pinch of salt
🧡 Why I Love This Recipe
This sandwich got me through my first year of going vegan. I missed that classic deli flavor, but this version tastes just right—without the meat.
- Super fast to make (under 20 minutes)
- No weird ingredients—everything’s easy to find
- Great for lunch, dinner, or even a snack
- Totally satisfying and indulgent
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Seitan or tempeh brings that “meaty” chew from wheat gluten or soy fermentation.
- Sauerkraut adds lactic acid (aka natural tang) and balances the richness of the dressing and cheese.
- Toasting both sides of the bread with vegan butter locks in the crunch and keeps the sandwich from getting soggy.
🍽 Meal Plan Ideas
- Serve with roasted potatoes or a dill pickle for a complete lunch.
- Double the batch and wrap leftovers for an easy workday sandwich.
- Make the dressing ahead and store it in the fridge for salads or wraps too.
🙃 Common Mistakes
- Using too much sauerkraut: It’ll make your sandwich soggy—drain it well.
- Skipping the butter: Toasting with vegan butter gives that deli-style crisp.
- Forgetting to press the sandwich: That little press makes it melty and perfect.
🧂 Pro Tips
- Drain the sauerkraut well—squeeze it in a clean towel or paper towel.
- Marinate the seitan or tempeh in soy sauce and smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Use a panini press or just press the sandwich with a spatula for max melt.
- Toast both sides of the bread for crunch and structure.
- Warm your vegan cheese beforehand if it’s stubborn about melting.
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or grill pan
- Spatula
- Small mixing bowl
- Butter knife
- Paper towels
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Swap seitan for tempeh or smoked tofu
- Use Thousand Island instead of Russian dressing
- Sub sourdough or multigrain for rye if needed
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess
⏲️ Make Ahead Tips
- Mix the Russian dressing up to 5 days in advance.
- Slice and marinate your seitan the day before for better flavor.
🧑🍳 How to Make Vegan Reuben Sandwiches
Makes: 4 sandwiches
Time: 20 minutes
Step 1: Make the Russian Dressing
Mix together vegan mayo, ketchup, sweet relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
Step 2: Prep the Seitan
Thinly slice the seitan and heat in a pan with a splash of soy sauce (optional) until lightly browned.
Step 3: Butter the Bread
Spread vegan butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
Step 4: Build the Sandwich
On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer vegan cheese, seitan, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, then top with the other slice, butter side out.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwich
Place the sandwich in a nonstick skillet or grill pan. Cook over medium heat, pressing slightly, until golden and crisp on both sides and cheese is melted—about 3–4 minutes per side.
Step 6: Serve and Slic
Remove from pan, let cool for 1–2 minutes, then slice in half and serve.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store any leftover components separately: dressing, seitan, sauerkraut.
- Sandwiches are best fresh, but you can wrap and re-toast for up to 2 days.
- Don’t freeze assembled sandwiches—it messes with the bread texture.
🍽 What to Serve With
- Dill pickles or pickle spears
- Sweet potato fries or kettle chips
- Side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Cold cucumber salad or coleslaw
❓ FAQ
Can I use tempeh instead of seitan?
Yes! Slice it thin and pan-fry it for texture.
What’s the best vegan cheese to use?
Look for slices labeled “melts well”—like Chao, Violife, or Follow Your Heart.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and swap seitan for tempeh or tofu.
How do I make it spicier?
Add a splash of hot sauce to the dressing or top with pickled jalapeños.
💬 Wrap-Up
This Vegan Reuben Sandwich is hearty, tangy, and straight-up delicious. It brings all the bold flavors of the original, no meat required.
Give it a try and let me know how yours turns out! Drop a comment with your tweaks, questions, or your favorite side to serve it with.