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This hearty Reuben bake transforms the beloved deli sandwich into a comforting casserole that's perfect for family dinners or potlucks. All the classic Reuben flavors meld together in this satisfying dish that captures everything you love about the sandwich without the fuss.
I first created this bake when hosting a game day gathering and needed something substantial that wouldn't keep me in the kitchen. Now it's become our Sunday tradition during football season, with everyone hovering near the oven as the cheese begins to bubble.
Ingredients
- Rye bread cubes creates the perfect base and adds authentic Reuben flavor
- Corned beef brings that classic deli taste look for quality sliced meat from your butcher counter
- Sauerkraut provides tangy flavor rinse it well to control the intensity
- Thousand Island dressing the traditional Reuben condiment ties everything together
- Swiss cheese creates that iconic gooey melt use freshly shredded for best results
- Butter adds richness and helps create a golden top
- Caraway seeds optional but adds that distinctive rye bread flavor
- Fresh parsley brightens the finished dish with color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish ensuring nothing sticks and making cleanup easier. The right temperature is crucial for melting the cheese perfectly without burning the top.
- Create the bread base
- Spread the cubed rye bread evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Make sure the cubes are similar in size for even texture throughout the bake. This layer absorbs flavors while maintaining some structure.
- Add the corned beef
- Layer the chopped corned beef over the bread cubes. Try to distribute it evenly so every bite has some meat. The smaller you chop it, the more integrated it becomes in the final dish.
- Layer the sauerkraut
- Evenly distribute the drained and rinsed sauerkraut over the corned beef. Press it down slightly to create a compact layer. Thorough draining prevents the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Add the dressing
- Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut layer, making sure to cover the entire surface. This adds moisture and binds the flavors together while baking.
- Top with cheese
- Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly across the entire dish, creating a blanket that will melt into a glorious golden crust. Go all the way to the edges for maximum cheese pull.
- Finish and bake
- Drizzle melted butter over the cheese and sprinkle with caraway seeds if using. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbling and golden. The butter helps achieve that beautiful brown top.
- Rest and serve
- Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving. This brief rest helps the layers set up for cleaner slicing and prevents mouth burns.
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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is how the bottom layer of rye bread soaks up the flavors while still maintaining some texture. My grandmother who grew up in New York would always judge a good Reuben by the quality of the rye bread, and this casserole honors that tradition in a new format.
Make Ahead Options
This Reuben bake shines as a make ahead dish. You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed. The flavors actually develop and meld together during this resting time, creating an even more flavorful final dish.
Smart Substitutions
While traditional ingredients create the authentic Reuben experience, this recipe adapts well to what you have on hand. Pastrami works beautifully in place of corned beef for a slight flavor variation. Russian dressing can substitute for Thousand Island if preferred. For a lighter version, try turkey pastrami and reduced fat Swiss cheese. If rye bread is unavailable, pumpernickel or sourdough can work in a pinch though you'll lose some of that distinctive Reuben flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake needs simple sides to complete the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides welcome freshness against the rich casserole. For a true deli experience, serve with crisp dill pickles and kettle chips on the side. If you're feeling ambitious, a small cup of tomato soup makes a delightful complement. For casual entertaining, cut into smaller portions and serve as part of a buffet alongside other finger foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different bread instead of rye?
Yes, you can substitute rye bread with any sturdy bread like sourdough or whole wheat, but rye adds the signature flavor of a Reuben.
- → What can I use instead of Thousand Island dressing?
You can make your own Thousand Island dressing or substitute it with Russian dressing for a slightly tangier flavor.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bake in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.