Description
This Reuben Bake layers tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese over buttery rye bread cubes, all topped with a drizzle of thousand island dressing and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and crispy, this comforting casserole captures the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in an easy, shareable dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb corned beef (cooked and sliced, or use deli-style corned beef)
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup thousand island dressing (or Russian dressing)
- 1 loaf of rye bread (cut into cubes)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Bread Layer: Cube the rye bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Pour the melted butter over the bread cubes and toss well to coat all pieces evenly.
- Create the Base Layer: Spread the buttered bread cubes evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base of the bake.
- Layer the Corned Beef: Arrange the sliced corned beef evenly on top of the bread cubes, ensuring full coverage for balanced flavor.
- Add Sauerkraut Layer: Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef layer to infuse the bake with its signature tanginess.
- Layer Swiss Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut evenly, which will melt and bind the layers together during baking.
- Drizzle Dressing: Pour the thousand island dressing over the cheese layer and spread to cover the surface evenly for added creaminess and flavor.
- Add Optional Flavors: If desired, sprinkle a teaspoon of caraway seeds over the layers to enhance the classic Reuben flavor profile.
- Add Parmesan Topping: Scatter the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, cheesy crust once baked (optional but recommended).
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, allowing the dish to heat through and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy for texture contrast.
- Rest Before Serving: Take the bake out of the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes so it can set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, hearty Reuben-inspired casserole that’s perfect for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute rye bread with gluten-free bread cubes.
- You can swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Adjust the dressing amount to your taste or use homemade thousand island for added freshness.
- Caraway seeds are traditional but optional; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; cover with foil to retain moisture when reheating.
