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Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef, Sauerkraut, and Swiss Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 55 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Layer the Corned Beef: Arrange the sliced corned beef evenly on top of the bread cubes, ensuring full coverage for balanced flavor.
  5. Add Sauerkraut Layer: Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef layer to infuse the bake with its signature tanginess.
  6. Layer Swiss Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut evenly, which will melt and bind the layers together during baking.
  7. Drizzle Dressing: Pour the thousand island dressing over the cheese layer and spread to cover the surface evenly for added creaminess and flavor.
  8. Add Optional Flavors: If desired, sprinkle a teaspoon of caraway seeds over the layers to enhance the classic Reuben flavor profile.
  9. Add Parmesan Topping: Scatter the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, cheesy crust once baked (optional but recommended).
  10. 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.
  11. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy for texture contrast.
  12. 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.
  13. 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.