Reuben Bake: A Cheesy, Savory Twist on a Classic Sandwich
If you love the rich, tangy flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, then this Reuben Bake is the perfect dish for you! It combines all the best elements—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing—into one easy, baked casserole. Perfect for potlucks, game nights, or family dinners, this dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Reuben Bake
• All the Classic Flavors – Every bite is packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and tangy dressing.
• Effortless Preparation – No need to assemble individual sandwiches—just layer and bake!
• Perfect for Gatherings – Cut into squares for easy serving at parties or potlucks.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep in advance and bake when ready for a stress-free meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bake:
• 2 cups shredded cooked corned beef (or thinly sliced deli corned beef)
• 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
• 1 cup Thousand Island dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 slices rye bread, cubed (or substitute with pumpernickel or sourdough)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional, for extra rye flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Base
• In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed rye bread with melted butter and caraway seeds (if using).
• Spread the coated bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the baking dish to form a flavorful base.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
• Spread half of the shredded corned beef evenly over the bread.
• Top with half of the sauerkraut, making sure to distribute it evenly.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
• Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the top layer of cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the edges are crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
• Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
• Cut into squares and serve warm.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of this Reuben Bake lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The tender corned beef brings a savory depth, while the tangy sauerkraut adds brightness. Melted Swiss cheese creates a creamy richness, and the buttery rye bread at the base gives the dish a satisfying crunch. Together, these layers make for an indulgent yet comforting meal that’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Pro Tips for the Best Reuben Bake
• Use Fresh Rye Bread – Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs flavors without getting soggy.
• Drain Sauerkraut Well – Too much moisture can make the bake watery, so be sure to squeeze out excess liquid.
• Customize the Cheese – While Swiss is classic, try using a mix of Swiss and Gruyère for extra flavor.
• Make It Ahead – Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Yes! Pastrami has a bolder, spicier flavor that pairs just as well in this recipe.
- How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes.
- What should I serve with Reuben Bake?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or pickles to balance its richness.
Final Thoughts
This Reuben Bake is a delicious and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a Reuben sandwich without the hassle. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a cheesy, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.