Description
The Reuben Bake is a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole that transforms the classic Reuben sandwich into a warm, comforting dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. This recipe layers all the beloved elements of a traditional Reuben—rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing—into a bubbling, golden-brown bake that’s easy to prepare and serve. With its rich, tangy, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy anyone craving a taste of this deli favorite, with a twist.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf rye bread, sliced and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake, allowing for even cooking and a perfectly crispy top.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish and makes cleanup easier.
3. Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the rye bread into 1-inch cubes. Ensure the cubes are uniform in size for even baking. Set aside half of the bread cubes for layering.
4. Layer the Ingredients (First Layer):
- Spread half of the rye bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly layer half of the thinly sliced corned beef over the bread cubes.
- Spread half of the drained sauerkraut over the corned beef, distributing it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut layer.
5. Repeat the Layering (Second Layer):
- Add the remaining rye bread cubes on top of the cheese.
- Layer the remaining corned beef over the bread cubes.
- Spread the remaining sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef.
- Finally, top with the remaining shredded Swiss cheese.
6. Add the Thousand Island Dressing:
- Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the top layer of Swiss cheese. Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to distribute the dressing, ensuring it’s spread across the entire surface to infuse the layers with flavor.
7. Pour the Melted Butter:
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the entire casserole. Start from the edges and work your way inward to ensure the top layer of bread and cheese is covered. This will help achieve a crispy, golden-brown finish.
8. Sprinkle Caraway Seeds (Optional):
- If using, sprinkle the caraway seeds evenly over the top. Caraway seeds add a distinct flavor reminiscent of traditional rye bread, but they can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.
9. Cover and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Covering the dish helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking.
10. Uncover and Finish Baking:
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the bake during this stage to avoid overcooking.
11. Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Cut the Reuben Bake into squares using a sharp knife. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Notes
This recipe is highly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions and adjustments based on your preferences or dietary needs. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using turkey instead of corned beef or pumpernickel bread instead of rye. For those watching their calorie intake, light Swiss cheese and a lower-fat dressing can be used without sacrificing the dish’s deliciousness. The Reuben Bake can be assembled ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy schedules, and leftovers reheat well for a satisfying meal the next day.