Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef Recipe
This Reuben Bake combines the rich flavors of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and a zesty dressing all layered together in a comforting casserole that’s baked to perfection. It’s a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced (or leftover corned beef) – The heart of the dish, providing flavor and texture.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed – Adds tang and crunch.
- 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded – The melty, creamy cheese that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing – For that signature Reuben flavor.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the dressing.
- 1 loaf of rye bread (or about 8 slices), cut into cubes – The base layer that mimics the bread in a sandwich.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Helps crisp the bread cubes.
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional) – For an extra touch of Reuben flavor, if desired.
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup Swiss cheese, shredded – For a cheesy, golden finish on top.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – For a burst of freshness and color (optional).
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking. Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Step 2: Prepare the Rye Bread
Cut the rye bread into small cubes. In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with melted butter and optional caraway seeds. Spread the buttered bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the first layer.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Start layering the casserole:
- Layer 1: Add a layer of the thinly sliced corned beef on top of the bread cubes.
- Layer 2: Add a layer of sauerkraut over the corned beef, spreading it out evenly.
- Layer 3: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut.
- Layer 4: Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing and mayonnaise mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layers once more with the remaining ingredients: another layer of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
Step 6: Add the Topping
After the casserole has baked, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color (optional). Slice and serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Reuben Bake
- Crisp the Bread: If you prefer the bread cubes to be a bit crispier, you can toast them lightly in the oven or on the stovetop before adding them to the casserole.
- Sauerkraut Tip: If you prefer less tang from the sauerkraut, give it a quick rinse under cold water before adding it to the casserole.
- Leftover Corned Beef: This is a great way to use up leftover corned beef after St. Patrick’s Day or any roast. Just slice it thin and layer it in!
- Customize the Cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can also mix in a bit of cheddar or Gruyère for a different twist.
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to account for the chill.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this rich casserole.
- Pickles: Serve with dill pickles or pickled vegetables to complement the flavors of the Reuben.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges make a hearty side dish for this filling casserole.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fats: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Conclusion
This Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef is a mouthwatering casserole that brings the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich into a comforting, cheesy, and filling dish. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re using up leftover corned beef or just craving something savory and indulgent, this bake is sure to be a hit! Steak avec sauce crémeuse au Gorgonzola