Is the Lobster Reuben served hot or cold?

Hot! 🔥 The sandwich is grilled or pressed, just like a classic Reuben. The cheese melts, the bread crisps, and the lobster warms — making every bite indulgent and gooey.

Can I make a Lobster Reuben with imitation lobster or shrimp?

You can... but it won’t be the same. Real lobster meat has a sweetness and texture that’s hard to fake. If you’re on a budget, shrimp or imitation crab will work — but for the full experience, go with the real deal. 🦞

What’s the best bread for a Lobster Reuben?

Rye bread is the classic choice — its firmness and subtle caraway flavor pair perfectly with sauerkraut and lobster. That said, pumpernickel or sourdough can make for delicious alternatives too.

What sides go well with a Lobster Reuben?

Rye bread is the classic choice — its firmness and subtle caraway flavor pair perfectly with sauerkraut and lobster. That said, pumpernickel or sourdough can make for delicious alternatives too.

Where did the Lobster Reuben originate?

It’s said to have been popularized in the Florida Keys , especially at Keys Fisheries in Marathon. While variations now exist from Maine to Charleston, this sandwich's roots are tropical.

Lobster Reuben Recipe: Make This Irresistible Classic 🦞

Description

The Lobster Reuben is a coastal take on a deli classic — combining buttery lobster meat with melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and toasted rye bread. It’s grilled until golden and gooey, delivering rich flavor with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for seafood lovers and sandwich fanatics alike!

Ingredients

Scale

4–6 oz lobster meat (cooked, claw or knuckle recommended)
2 slices rye bread
2 slices Swiss cheese
¼ cup sauerkraut, drained
2 tbsp Thousand Island dressing
1 tbsp butter (for grilling)

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Instructions

Prep lobster: Warm it gently and drain any excess liquid.
Butter bread: Lightly butter one side of each bread slice.
Assemble: On the unbuttered side, layer cheese, lobster, sauerkraut, dressing, and another slice of cheese. Top with second bread slice, buttered side out.
Grill: Heat skillet over medium. Cook sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Serve: Let rest 1 min, then slice diagonally and enjoy while hot!

Notes

Use real lobster meat for best texture and flavor.
Try spicy aioli instead of Thousand Island for heat.
Press with a spatula or sandwich press for maximum crisp.
Goes great with kettle chips, slaw, or sweet potato fries.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Grilled
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 610 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 990mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 120mg