Ingredients

For the Reuben Bake:

• 1 pound of corned beef, thinly sliced
• 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup of Russian dressing (recipe below)
• 1 package (16 ounces) of refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of melted butter

 

For the Russian Dressing:

• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup of ketchup
• 2 tablespoons of sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Russian Dressing

In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the Russian dressing and mix well. Set aside.

 

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a crust. Layer the thinly sliced corned beef evenly over the dough. Next, spread the sauerkraut over the corned beef, followed by a generous drizzle of Russian dressing. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the top, ensuring even coverage. If desired, sprinkle caraway seeds over the cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

 

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Carefully transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

 

Step 5: Final Touches

Once baked, remove the Reuben Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle melted butter over the top for added richness and flavor.

 

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Reuben Bake into squares and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired. This delectable dish pairs perfectly with a side of coleslaw or a crisp green salad.

 

Serving Suggestions

This Reuben Bake is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it as a main course alongside a tangy coleslaw or a simple green salad. For a more filling meal, add some roasted potatoes or a hearty vegetable soup. It’s also a fantastic option for potlucks and gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and can be served warm or at room temperature.

 

Tips and Variations

1. Meat Alternatives: Try using pastrami or turkey instead of corned beef for a different flavor profile.
2. Cheese Choices: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone if you prefer a change from Swiss.
3. Dough Options: If you don’t have crescent roll dough, puff pastry or pizza dough can be used as alternatives.
4. Vegetarian Version: Replace the corned beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and onions for a delicious vegetarian option.

 

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the Reuben Bake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
2. Can I freeze the Reuben Bake? Absolutely. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
3. What can I use instead of Russian dressing? Thousand Island dressing is a good alternative if you don’t have the ingredients for Russian dressing.
4. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy? Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained and patted dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before layering it in the dish.

 

Creating this Reuben Bake is more than just making a meal; it’s about bringing a touch of tradition and a lot of flavor to your dining table. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the classic Reuben sandwich or new to these flavors, this bake is sure to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!