A twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this Homemade Reuben Bake combines all the beloved flavors of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing into a comforting, cheesy casserole. It’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or serving at parties. With its crispy rye bread topping and gooey melted cheese, this bake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked corned beef, shredded
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 8 slices rye bread, cubed
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and cubed rye bread. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this savory Reuben bake!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add veggies: For extra flavor and texture, try adding some caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to the mixture.
- Substitute dressing: If you prefer a different dressing, you can swap the Thousand Island for Russian dressing or even a tangy mustard sauce.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free rye bread or any gluten-free bread as a substitute for regular rye bread.
- Spicy twist: Add some hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the mix for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the Reuben bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings.
10 FAQs
- Can I use deli-sliced corned beef instead of cooked corned beef? Yes, you can use deli-sliced corned beef; just chop it into small pieces before adding to the mixture.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? While Swiss is traditional for a Reuben, you can substitute with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Is there a way to make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Can I make this dish without sauerkraut? If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, you can substitute it with coleslaw for a milder option.
- Can I freeze the Homemade Reuben Bake? Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it’s baked. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 350°F until hot.
- What can I serve this dish with? This Reuben bake pairs well with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy French fries for a complete meal.
- Can I use store-bought rye bread? Yes, store-bought rye bread works perfectly in this recipe. Just cube it before mixing with the other ingredients.
- How can I make the bread extra crispy? For a crunchier topping, you can toast the bread cubes in the oven before mixing them into the casserole.
- What if I don’t like Thousand Island dressing? You can substitute with Russian dressing or a homemade dressing with mayonnaise, ketchup, and a dash of vinegar for a similar flavor.
- Can this recipe be made vegetarian? Yes, you can substitute the corned beef with a plant-based alternative like tempeh or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This Homemade Reuben Bake brings the classic Reuben sandwich to life in casserole form. It’s simple to make, filling, and full of rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty cheese, and crispy rye bread creates a satisfying meal that will quickly become a favorite!