Crispy Keto Reuben Sandwich with Golden Chaffle Bread
The classic deli favorite made low-carb with cheesy, crispy chaffle “rye” bread
Ever craved a proper Reuben but dreaded the carb overload?
I’ve been there, staring longingly at deli menus while counting net carbs.
This keto Reuben sandwich delivers all the tangy, melty goodness you remember without derailing your macros.
The secret weapon? Chaffle bread that tastes surprisingly close to rye when you add caraway seeds.
KEY INFO
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary tags: Keto, Low-carb, Gluten-free
- Net carbs: 6g per sandwich
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Mini waffle maker (essential for chaffles)
- Large skillet
- 2 mixing bowls
- Spatula
Simple alternatives: Regular waffle maker works, just cut to sandwich size. Air fryer can replace skillet for final grilling.
INGREDIENTS
For the Chaffle Bread:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp (14g) almond flour
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (gives that authentic rye flavor)
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of garlic powder
For the Sandwich Filling:
- 6 oz (170g) sliced corned beef
- 4 oz (115g) Swiss cheese, sliced
- 4 tbsp sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 2 tbsp butter for grilling
For the Keto Thousand Island Dressing:
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
- 2 tbsp minced dill pickles (or sugar-free relish)
METHOD
1. Mix the chaffle batter
Whisk eggs in a medium bowl until smooth.
Stir in mozzarella, almond flour, caraway seeds, baking powder, and garlic powder.
Let the mixture sit for 2 minutes – this helps the almond flour absorb moisture.
2. Cook the chaffles
Preheat your mini waffle maker according to manufacturer instructions.
Pour half the batter into the center of the waffle maker.
Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
The chaffle should lift easily from the iron when done.
Repeat with remaining batter.
Cool chaffles for 2-3 minutes.
3. Make the dressing
Mix mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, and minced pickles in a small bowl.
Taste and adjust – add more pickles if you like it chunkier.
4. Prep the filling
Squeeze sauerkraut between paper towels until very dry.
This step is crucial – wet sauerkraut makes soggy sandwiches.
Warm corned beef in microwave for 20 seconds if desired.
5. Assemble the sandwich
Spread dressing on one side of each chaffle.
Layer corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut on one chaffle.
Top with second chaffle, dressing side down.
Butter the outside surfaces generously.
6. Grill to perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Place sandwich in pan and grill for 4-5 minutes per side.
Press gently with spatula to help cheese melt.
Look for golden brown color and fully melted cheese.
7. Serve immediately
Cut diagonally and serve hot.
The chaffle should be crispy outside, and cheese should be gloriously melted.
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Drain sauerkraut thoroughly – soggy filling ruins the crispy chaffle texture
- Don’t overfill – keep layers thin so sandwich holds together
- Cook chaffles until golden – pale chaffles turn mushy when assembled
- Use medium-low heat when grilling – prevents burning while cheese melts
Storage & Scaling
Store chaffle components separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Never store assembled sandwiches – they get soggy.
Double the recipe easily for meal prep lunches.
Reheat in a dry skillet, never the microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the sauerkraut squeeze step
- Cooking chaffles on too low heat (they won’t crisp properly)
- Using fresh mozzarella instead of shredded (creates soggy chaffles)
- Grilling on high heat (burns outside before cheese melts)
Delicious Variations
- Rachel Style: Swap corned beef for sliced turkey
- Spicy Kick: Add horseradish to the dressing
- Open-Faced: Use one chaffle, pile high with toppings
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese and plant-based butter
The caraway seeds truly make this chaffle taste like authentic rye bread.
I discovered this trick after dozens of bland attempts at keto bread alternatives.
Your first bite will transport you straight back to your favorite deli – minus the afternoon carb crash.
