Recipe for Reuben Casserole

The Comforting Delight of a Reuben Casserole

The Reuben sandwich is a classic American deli staple, known for its bold flavors and satisfying combination of ingredients.

With its layers of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and melty Swiss cheese, it’s no wonder that this sandwich has remained a favorite for generations.

However, when you want to take this beloved sandwich to the next level, a Reuben casserole offers a unique twist that transforms the traditional sandwich into a warm, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

This casserole captures the essence of the Reuben, layering all the classic ingredients into a baked dish that’s easy to prepare and serve.

In this article, we’ll explore how to create a Reuben casserole that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Recipe for Reuben Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound sliced corned beef (deli-style, or homemade)

1 can (14-16 ounces) sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry

8 slices of rye bread, cubed (you can also use rye crackers or croutons for added crunch)

2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing or Russian dressing

1/4 cup Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)

1/2 cup butter, melted

Optional: Caraway seeds, for authentic rye flavor

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.

If using rye bread, cut it into cubes and set aside. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can lightly toast the bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the casserole.

Layer the Casserole:

Begin by spreading a layer of half the cubed rye bread at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Evenly distribute half of the drained sauerkraut over the bread cubes, followed by half of the corned beef slices.

Drizzle with half of the Thousand Island dressing and, if using, a layer of Dijon mustard.

Sprinkle half of the shredded Swiss cheese over the meat and sauerkraut.

Repeat the layers with the remaining bread cubes, sauerkraut, corned beef, dressing, and cheese.

Top the Casserole:

If you enjoy the flavor of caraway seeds, sprinkle a few over the top of the casserole to give it an extra rye bread flavor.

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top layer of the casserole. This helps to achieve a golden, crispy top.

Bake the Casserole:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve:

Let the casserole cool slightly before cutting into it. Serve hot, with a side of pickles or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

The Reuben casserole is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, transforming it into a comforting, layered dish that’s perfect for sharing.

This recipe retains all the essential elements that make a Reuben sandwich so beloved—the savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and melted Swiss cheese—while offering the added comfort of a warm, baked meal.

Whether you’re serving this dish for a casual family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich.

With its simple preparation and satisfying results, the Reuben casserole is a recipe that you’ll want to return to again and again.

Give it a try and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of this innovative take on a deli classic.