Slow Cooker Reuben Sloppy Joes
If you love the bold flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, this Slow Cooker Reuben Sloppy Joes recipe is about to become one of your favorite easy dinners. Made with just 4 simple ingredients, this hearty slow cooker ground beef recipe combines savory beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and gooey Swiss cheese for an irresistible comfort food meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, potlucks, and game day parties, this easy crockpot sloppy joe recipe requires minimal prep. Simply combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work while your kitchen fills with delicious aromas.
Serve these cheesy Reuben sloppy joe sandwiches on soft hamburger buns, hoagie rolls, or toasted rye bread for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Reuben Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Only 4 ingredients for a quick and easy meal
- Perfect slow cooker comfort food for busy families
- Packed with the classic Reuben sandwich flavors
- Great for game day, potlucks, or casual gatherings
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for quick lunches
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef, browned and drained
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1½ cups Thousand Island dressing
- 3 cups shredded Swiss cheese
How to Make Slow Cooker Reuben Sloppy Joes
- Brown the beef
Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully browned. Drain excess grease. - Prepare the slow cooker
Lightly spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick spray for easier cleanup. - Add ingredients
Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Add the drained sauerkraut and pour the Thousand Island dressing over the mixture. - Mix everything together
Stir until the beef, sauerkraut, and dressing are well combined and evenly coated. - Add the cheese
Stir in 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese, allowing some streaks of cheese to remain for that classic Reuben flavor. - Slow cook
Cover and cook:- LOW: 3–4 hours
- HIGH: 1½–2 hours
- Finish with extra cheese
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese on top and cover until melted and bubbly. - Serve and enjoy
Spoon the hot Reuben sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns, hoagie rolls, or toasted rye bread.
Serving Ideas
Serve these slow cooker sloppy joes with:
- Crispy kettle chips
- Oven-baked fries
- A fresh green salad
- Pickles or crunchy vegetables for balance
For parties, keep the slow cooker on WARM with a tray of buns so guests can build their own sandwiches.
Tips for the Best Reuben Sloppy Joes
For a milder flavor: Use 1 cup sauerkraut and add extra dressing.
Hide the sauerkraut: Chop it finely so it blends into the meat mixture.
Classic Reuben taste: Serve on toasted rye or marble rye bread.
Party sliders: Spoon the mixture onto Hawaiian rolls for mini sandwiches.
Light option: Use reduced-fat Swiss cheese and light Thousand Island dressing.
Storage and Leftovers
Leftover Reuben sloppy joe filling stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. It also makes a delicious topping for baked potatoes or loaded fries.
