Can you take the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich and turn them into an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole? Absolutely! This Reuben Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that brings together all the elements of the beloved sandwich—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and crispy rye bread—in a warm and satisfying bake.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, a potluck favorite, or a unique way to use leftover corned beef, this Reuben Bake is the answer. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and delivers that perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and savory textures. Let’s dive into this irresistible Reuben Bake recipe!
Contents
Ingredients List
For the Reuben Bake:
- 6 slices rye bread – Classic Reuben flavor with a crispy texture.
- 1 lb sliced corned beef – Savory, seasoned beef that’s the star of the dish.
- 1 cup sauerkraut (drained and patted dry) – Tangy and slightly crunchy.
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy texture.
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing – Adds a creamy, tangy kick.
- 3 large eggs – Helps bind the casserole together.
- 1 cup whole milk – Keeps the dish moist and creamy.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances flavor with a slight tang.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and aroma.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Balances flavors and adds mild heat.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – Helps crisp up the bread topping.
Optional Additions:
- Caraway seeds – Sprinkle on top for a more authentic rye bread taste.
- Chopped pickles – Adds extra tanginess and crunch.
- Horseradish sauce – For a spicy kick.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Swap corned beef for pastrami if you prefer a smoky flavor.
- Use provolone or mozzarella instead of Swiss for a milder taste.
- Replace Thousand Island dressing with Russian dressing for a more traditional touch.
- Use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Timing
One of the best things about this Reuben Bake is how quick and simple it is to prepare!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: ~55 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Drain the sauerkraut well and pat it dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
Step 2: Layer the Bread & Corned Beef
- Cut the rye bread into cubes and spread half of them evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer half of the corned beef over the bread, followed by half of the sauerkraut and half of the shredded Swiss cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Thousand Island dressing, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Step 4: Add the Final Layer & Bake
- Scatter the remaining rye bread cubes on top and drizzle with melted butter to help them crisp up.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
Step 5: Let It Rest & Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with an extra drizzle of Thousand Island dressing or a side of pickles!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general estimate per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: ~900mg (varies based on corned beef and sauerkraut)
This dish is rich in protein and probiotics (thanks to the sauerkraut), making it a hearty and slightly gut-friendly meal!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to make a lighter version of this Reuben Bake? Try these modifications:
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free bread for extra fiber.
- Choose reduced-fat Swiss cheese to cut down on calories.
- Replace Thousand Island dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with mustard and relish.
- Use lean turkey instead of corned beef for a lower-fat option.
These swaps maintain the flavor while making the dish more nutritious!
Serving Suggestions
Make your Reuben Bake even more delicious with these serving ideas:
- With a side salad – A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Paired with a bowl of soup – Serve with potato soup or tomato soup for a cozy meal.
- Topped with extra sauerkraut or pickles – Enhances the tangy flavor.
- With a side of coleslaw – A crunchy, refreshing contrast.
This dish is great for potlucks, game nights, or casual family dinners!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Reuben Bake turns out perfect every time, watch out for these pitfalls:
- Skipping the step of drying the sauerkraut – Too much moisture can make the bake soggy.
- Using pre-sliced bread without toasting – Slightly toasting the bread cubes prevents them from getting mushy.
- Overloading with cheese – While tempting, too much cheese can make the bake greasy.
- Not letting it rest before serving – Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps it firm up for easier slicing.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Short-Term Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Freezing Instructions:
- Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.
Conclusion
This Reuben Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make casserole that captures the bold flavors of the classic sandwich in a warm, comforting dish. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, holiday gathering, or St. Patrick’s Day feast, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy and delicious meal ideas! 🥪✨
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! If you don’t like rye, try sourdough or whole wheat.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
You can use grilled mushrooms or tempeh instead of corned beef for a plant-based alternative.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Layer the ingredients and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
5. What can I serve with Reuben Bake?
Try coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple side of pickles!
Now, let’s get baking! 🧑🍳🥪🔥
