The beauty of an air fryer extends beyond just frying and baking – it is an excellent appliance for reheating leftover food, especially a sandwich as iconic as the Reuben. If you have some leftover Reuben sandwich from last night's dinner and are wondering how to bring it back to life, an air fryer is the way to go. In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you everything you need to know about reheating a Reuben sandwich in the air fryer.
Understand the Benefits of Reheating a Reuben Sandwich in an Air Fryer
Reheating your leftover Reuben sandwich in the air fryer has numerous benefits. It's faster and easier than using a conventional oven, and the result is usually crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, making it feel like it was just freshly made.
Another benefit of reheating a Reuben sandwich in an air fryer is that it allows you to customize the temperature and time settings to your liking. This means that you can achieve the perfect level of crispiness and warmth that you prefer, without overcooking or burning the sandwich.
Additionally, using an air fryer to reheat your Reuben sandwich is a healthier option compared to using a microwave. The air fryer uses hot air to cook the food, which means that you don't need to add any oil or butter to achieve a crispy texture. This results in a lower calorie count and a healthier meal overall.
Choosing the Right Type of Air Fryer for Reheating a Reuben Sandwich
There are many types of air fryers out there, each with its unique features. However, for reheating a Reuben sandwich, you need an air fryer with a basket that's large enough to fit the sandwich. Additionally, you'll want one with adjustable temperature settings to ensure that your Reuben sandwich heats up evenly.
Another important factor to consider when choosing an air fryer for reheating a Reuben sandwich is the wattage. A higher wattage air fryer will heat up faster and more efficiently, which is important when you're hungry and want your sandwich quickly. Look for an air fryer with at least 1500 watts of power for the best results.
Prepping Your Reuben Sandwich for Air Frying: Tips and Tricks
Before placing your Reuben sandwich in the air fryer, it's essential to get it ready for the air frying process. Start by removing any lettuce, tomato, or other cold condiments that could make the bread soggy. Then, place the sandwich in the air fryer basket. You can also brush some melted butter on the top of the sandwich for added flavor and crispiness.
Another important tip for prepping your Reuben sandwich for air frying is to make sure that the bread is not too thick. Thick bread can prevent the heat from circulating evenly, resulting in an unevenly cooked sandwich. If your bread is too thick, consider slicing it in half or using thinner slices of bread.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese to add more flavor to your Reuben sandwich. Swiss cheese is the traditional choice, but you can also try using cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure to place the cheese on top of the corned beef and sauerkraut to prevent it from melting and sticking to the air fryer basket.
Heating up Your Air Fryer to the Optimal Temperature for a Perfectly Reheated Reuben Sandwich
Preheating your air fryer is key to having perfectly reheated Reuben sandwich. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and preheat your air fryer to 370°F. This temperature is ideal for bringing the cheese to an oozy texture and crisping the bread.
It's important to note that the optimal temperature for reheating a Reuben sandwich may vary depending on the thickness of the bread and the amount of filling. If you find that your sandwich is not heated through or the cheese is not melted enough, try adjusting the temperature slightly or adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect temperature and time for your specific sandwich, but once you do, you'll be able to enjoy a delicious, hot Reuben anytime.
How Long Should You Reheat a Reuben Sandwich in an Air Fryer?
The amount of time your Reuben sandwich will take to reheat in the air fryer will depend on the thickness of the sandwich, the type of bread used, and how much filling was inside. As a rule of thumb, a standard-sized Reuben sandwich will take around 5 minutes to reheat in the air fryer. Be sure to check on the sandwich frequently to avoid overcooking it.
It's important to note that if your Reuben sandwich has been refrigerated, it may take slightly longer to reheat in the air fryer. This is because the sandwich will be colder and will need more time to heat up to the desired temperature. Additionally, if your air fryer has a preheat function, it's a good idea to use it before placing the sandwich inside. Preheating the air fryer will help ensure that the sandwich is heated evenly and thoroughly.
Mastering the Art of Flipping Your Reuben Sandwich in an Air Fryer
Flipping your sandwich during the reheating process ensures that both sides get heated evenly, resulting in a crispier sandwich. Use tongs to flip the sandwich midway through the reheating process.
Another tip for achieving the perfect Reuben sandwich in an air fryer is to lightly butter the bread before placing it in the fryer. This will help to create a golden, crispy crust on the bread.
Additionally, consider adding a layer of sauerkraut or coleslaw to your Reuben sandwich for added flavor and texture. These toppings can be added before or after the sandwich is reheated in the air fryer, depending on your preference.
Adding Extra Flavor and Crunch to Your Reheated Reuben Sandwich with Additional Ingredients
If you're looking to give your Reuben sandwich some extra flavor and crunch, you can add more ingredients to it. For instance, you can add crispy bacon strips to the sandwich or top it with pickles before reheating it in the air fryer for an added punch of flavor.
Another great way to add some extra flavor to your reheated Reuben sandwich is by spreading some spicy mustard or horseradish sauce on the bread. This will give your sandwich a nice kick and make it more flavorful.
If you're looking to add some crunch to your sandwich, you can try adding some potato chips or French fries to it. Simply place the chips or fries on top of the sandwich before reheating it in the oven or air fryer. This will give your sandwich a nice crunch and make it more satisfying to eat.
Serving and Enjoying Your Deliciously Reheated Reuben Sandwich from the Air Fryer
Once the sandwich is heated and crispy to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few moments before slicing and serving it. Pair it with some chips or a side salad and enjoy the deliciousness of a freshly reheated Reuben sandwich from the air fryer.
Another great way to enjoy your reheated Reuben sandwich is to add some extra toppings. Consider adding some sauerkraut, pickles, or even some spicy mustard to give your sandwich an extra kick of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as rye or sourdough, to add some variety to your sandwich.
If you have any leftover Reuben sandwich, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat it, simply place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes until it is heated through and crispy again. This is a great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner when you don't have time to cook from scratch.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Air Fryer for Future Use
Cleaning your air fryer after each use is essential to ensure that it lasts longer and functions correctly. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the best cleaning practices. Ensure that the air fryer's basket and pan are washed with mild soap and water and thoroughly dried before you store it away.
With these tips, reheating your delicious Reuben sandwich in the air fryer will be an easy and enjoyable process. Get creative and add your unique twist to this classic sandwich.
It is also important to regularly maintain your air fryer to ensure that it continues to function correctly. This includes checking the air fryer's heating element and fan for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Additionally, make sure to remove any excess oil or food particles that may have accumulated in the air fryer's interior. By taking these steps, you can extend the lifespan of your air fryer and continue to enjoy delicious, healthy meals for years to come.
FAQs
How to reheat a reuben sandwich in the air fryer? ›
Can You Reheat a Reuben Sandwich in an Air Fryer? Reheating a Reuben sandwich in the air fryer is super convenient and easy. Simply preheat your air fryer to 350°F and cook for 4 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy!
What is the best way to reheat a Reuben Sandwich? ›Reheating a Reuben Sandwich is best done in an oven or toaster oven, as microwaved sandwiches tend to get soggy. If you have leftovers (and you might! A Reuben is a very hearty sandwich) wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil and place on a roaster tray in a preheated 325F oven for 15-20 minutes.
How do you reheat corned beef sandwiches in the air fryer? ›As a general rule, you should reheat your corned beef in the air fryer for around 5-6 minutes, checking its progress at intervals of one to two minutes until it reaches serving temperature. It is important to note that overcooking corned beef can result in a tough and dry texture.
How do you heat a sandwich in an air fryer? ›- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped sandwich in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 3-5 minutes, depending on the type of sandwich.
- Remove the sandwich from the air fryer and unwrap it.
Place your grilled cheese in the air fryer basket or on the tray, making sure it doesn't overlap or touch the sides. Cook at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, depending on how crispy you want it to be. Remove from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your reheated grilled cheese sandwich!
How do you reheat corned beef for Reuben sandwiches? ›For one sandwich
If not, heat sliced (leftover or deli) corned beef either (1) wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven or toaster oven or (2) in a lidded container in in the microwave with a tablespoon of water until warmed through. Warm a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Melt 1 teaspoon of the butter.
How can I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy? Too much water in the sauerkraut can make Reuben sandwiches soggy. To prevent this, be sure to drain as much liquid as you can from the sauerkraut before using it to make sandwiches.
Should you put aluminum foil in air fryer? ›Is It Safe to Use Aluminum Foil In the Air Fryer? An air fryer is simply a small oven that runs on convection heat. The heat is circulated around a tight space by a powerful fan that lies just below or behind the heating element. Just as in a standard oven, it is perfectly safe to use aluminum foil in the air fryer.
How long to reheat corned beef in air fryer? ›- Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees.
- Place unsliced hunk of corned beef in the air fryer and cook for 8 minutes, until warmed through. Slices will only take 1-2 minutes to warm.
It is absolutely safe to use aluminum foil in your air fryer. In fact, it can make cooking with the air fryer easier.
What is the reheat option on air fryer? ›
How to Reheat Leftovers (like fries, vegetables, pizza, etc) Preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes at 400 °F. Place leftovers in a single layer in air fryer basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes at 350 °F, or until food is crispy to liking and reaches safe internal temperature of 165 °F.
How long to heat cold food in air fryer? ›Preheat the air fryer at 350-400F for 4 to 5 minutes. Place the food you want to reheat in the basket without crowding. Air fry 3 to 5 minutes or so until crispy and heated through but keep a close watch on it.
Does the heat come in at the top of an air fryer? ›An air fryer is similar to an oven in the sense that it bakes and roasts, but the difference is its heating elements are only located on top and are accompanied by a large, powerful fan, resulting in food that's super crispy in no time — and, most notably, with less oil than deep-fried counterparts.
How do you reheat a sandwich without drying it out? ›Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If your sandwich is fresh, wrap it in foil or parchment paper to keep it from drying. Place the wrapped sandwich on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Remove the sandwich from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before enjoying it.
How do you reheat bacon and egg sandwiches in an air fryer? ›Air Fryer. Separate sandwich and reheat in air fryer on 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes. If you don't have an air fryer, you could also use the oven but increase the time to about 9-10 minutes.
How do you reheat a meatloaf sandwich in an air fryer? ›- Turn the air fryer to 350ºF/175ºC.
- Line the basket of the air fryer with baking paper or parchment paper.
- Spray both sides of your meatloaf slices with oil spray.
- Reheat the slices for 4-5 minutes.
The sandwich is traditionally made with sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on rye bread. It is usually fried like a grilled cheese sandwich and served hot, but it may be served cold. Reuben sandwiches are usually made with corned beef, but pastrami is an excellent alternative.
How do you microwave a sandwich without it getting soggy? ›To prevent the bottom slice of bread from becoming soggy, place the sandwich on a microwave trivet so the steam can escape through the bottom. Or wrap the sandwich loosely in paper towels, which will absorb some of the moisture.