Homemade Reuben Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Homemade Reuben Bake transforms the classic Reuben sandwich into a comforting casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family meals. Layers of rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and tangy dressing come together in a warm, bubbly dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

• 8 slices rye bread
• 2 cups corned beef, thinly sliced or shredded
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 ½ cups sauerkraut, drained
• 1 cup Thousand Island or Russian dressing
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Step 2: Cut the rye bread into cubes and arrange half of the cubes evenly in the baking dish.
3. Step 3: Spread half of the corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and dressing evenly over the bread layer.
4. Step 4: Repeat the layering process with the remaining bread cubes, corned beef, cheese, sauerkraut, and dressing.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until the bake is bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, mix the Dijon mustard into the Thousand Island or Russian dressing before layering.
• Use rye bread with seeds for added texture and flavor.
• Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
• Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to avoid a soggy bake.
• Add a sprinkle of garlic powder on top before baking for a subtle garlic aroma.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the top crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of bread?

While rye bread gives the classic flavor, you can substitute with pumpernickel or a hearty sourdough for a slightly different taste that still holds up well in the bake.

Homemade Reuben Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 450 reviews

This Homemade Reuben Bake is a hearty and comforting casserole that captures the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in an easy-to-make, layered bake. Featuring rye bread, tender corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, this dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Baked to golden bubbly perfection, it offers all the deliciousness of a sandwich in a convenient casserole form.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 8 slices rye bread, cut into cubes

Meat & Cheese

• 2 cups corned beef, thinly sliced or shredded
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded

Other Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups sauerkraut, drained
• 1 cup Thousand Island or Russian dressing
• 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing and dotting
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
2. Prepare the Bread Layer: Cut the rye bread into cubes and place half of these cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the first layer.
3. Layer Ingredients: Evenly distribute half of the corned beef over the bread cubes, then top with half of the shredded Swiss cheese, followed by half of the sauerkraut, and drizzle with half of the Thousand Island or Russian dressing.
4. Repeat Layers: Add another layer beginning with the remaining bread cubes, then the leftover corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and dressing, ensuring the bake is well layered for maximum flavor.
5. Add Seasonings and Butter: Sprinkle the top with garlic powder and dot with small pieces of butter to enhance browning and richness during baking.
6. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt.
7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the Reuben bake rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven to set the layers, making it easier to cut and serve.

Notes

• For a spicier kick, add some horseradish to the Thousand Island or dressing mixture before layering.
• Drain the sauerkraut well to prevent excess moisture from making the bake soggy.
• Use freshly shredded Swiss cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
• Serve with extra Thousand Island dressing or pickles on the side for authentic Reuben sandwich flavors.
• This bake reheats well and makes excellent leftovers for lunch or dinner.

Keywords: Reuben bake, corned beef casserole, rye bread recipe, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut bake, layered casserole