Homemade Reuben Bake

A delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this bake combines the iconic flavors of rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing into a comforting casserole dish. Perfect for a hearty family meal or a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Reuben Flavor: Brings all the beloved flavors of the traditional sandwich into a baked casserole.
• Easy to Make: Simple layering makes this recipe quick and foolproof.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy dinner.
• Versatile: Customizable with optional add-ins like parsley or caraway seeds for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8-10 slices rye bread, cubed (about 4–5 cups)
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 pound corned beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (16-ounce) can sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 2 teaspoons caraway seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Bread: Toss the cubed rye bread with melted butter in a large bowl until evenly coated.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Spread half of the buttered bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
   • Add a layer of corned beef over the bread.
   • Sprinkle sauerkraut over the corned beef.
   • Top with half of the shredded Swiss cheese.
   • Drizzle Thousand Island dressing evenly over the cheese layer.
4. Add Garnishes: Sprinkle with parsley and caraway seeds if using.
5. Top with Remaining Layers: Add the remaining bread cubes and Swiss cheese on top.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings

Variations

• Meat Options: Substitute the corned beef with pastrami or turkey for a different twist.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap Swiss cheese with Gouda or provolone for a milder flavor.
• Dressing Alternative: Use Russian dressing instead of Thousand Island for a more traditional Reuben flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the corned beef with seasoned mushrooms or tempeh.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed rye crackers or breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Absolutely! Pre-shredded Swiss cheese works perfectly and saves time.

3. What if I don’t have Thousand Island dressing?

You can make your own by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, and a dash of relish.

4. Can I use a different bread?

Yes, pumpernickel or sourdough bread can be used for a unique flavor twist.

5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free rye or sandwich bread and check the labels on other ingredients.

6. What pairs well with this casserole?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables complement the rich flavors of this dish.

7. Can I omit the caraway seeds?

Yes, they’re optional and can be left out if you don’t enjoy their flavor.

8. Can I make a smaller portion?

Halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch baking dish for a smaller batch.

9. Is sauerkraut necessary?

It’s essential for the classic Reuben flavor, but you can substitute with lightly pickled cabbage if preferred.

10. How do I toast the bread cubes evenly?

Spread them in a single layer and stir occasionally while tossing with butter.

Conclusion

Homemade Reuben Bake is a satisfying, comforting casserole that captures all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or craving a hearty family meal, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today for a unique twist on a beloved favorite!

Homemade Reuben Bake

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Enjoy a comforting twist on the classic Reuben sandwich with this easy Reuben Bake. Layers of rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing come together in a savory, cheesy casserole perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 8–10 slices rye bread, cubed (about 4–5 cups)
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 pound corned beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (16-ounce) can sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 2 teaspoons caraway seeds (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish.
• Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, toss the cubed rye bread with melted butter until evenly coated.
• Assemble the Base: Spread half of the bread cubes evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Layer the Ingredients:
  • Add a layer of corned beef over the bread cubes.
  • Sprinkle the sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef.
  • Distribute half of the shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut.
  • Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing evenly across the cheese layer.
• Top and Season: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and caraway seeds if desired.
• Add the Final Layers: Top with the remaining bread cubes and the rest of the shredded Swiss cheese.
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread cubes are golden brown on top.
• Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a hearty main dish or alongside a crisp green salad.

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Notes

• Substitute rye bread with pumpernickel for a deeper flavor.
• For a tangier kick, increase the amount of Thousand Island dressing or add a dollop on the side when serving.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: ~420 kcal per serving