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Homemade Reuben Bake Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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