There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole bubbling away in the oven, especially when it brings together with it the vibrant flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich. A few evenings ago, I found myself reminiscing about those deli treasures—each bite a delightful medley of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing. In that moment, inspiration struck: why not reinvent this beloved combination into a hearty Reuben Casserole?
What I love about this dish is how effortlessly it blends nostalgia with convenience. Gone are the days of laboring over individual sandwiches. In just a little over an hour, you can serve up generous portions of this satisfying delight—perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering. Plus, the layer upon layer of flavor just gets better with each bite! If you’re ready to elevate your dinner game, grab your ingredients, and let’s transform those classic Reuben flavors into something spectacular.
Why You'll Love This Reuben Casserole
- This Reuben Casserole combines the beloved flavors of a classic sandwich into an effortless dish that will please everyone at the table.
- With a prep time of only 15 minutes, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
- The layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese create a melty, mouthwatering experience that’s irresistibly comforting.
- Not to mention, its enticing golden-brown top makes for a visually stunning centerpiece that will have your guests diving in for seconds.
- This versatile casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining a crowd, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.
Reuben Casserole Ingredients
• Get ready for layers of flavor!
For the Base
- Rye bread – Cubed and day-old ensures the perfect texture to soak up those delicious juices.
- Lean corned beef – Shredded for a tender, meaty layer that’s essential in any hearty Reuben casserole.
For the Filling
- Sauerkraut – Drained to add that iconic tanginess without excess moisture.
- Swiss cheese – Shredded for melty, gooey goodness that binds the flavors beautifully.
For the Dressing
- Thousand Island dressing – The creamy and flavorful sauce that brings this casserole together, adding richness to each bite.
- Caraway seeds (optional) – A sprinkle of these seeds enhances the traditional flavor profile of the Reuben.
For Greasing
- Butter – Use for greasing the baking dish, ensuring a beautifully crisp and golden top.
How to Make Reuben Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly golden.
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Layer half of the rye bread cubes in the bottom of the greased dish. Spread them out evenly; this will form a sturdy base for all the delicious fillings to come.
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Spread half of the shredded corned beef over the bread. Allow the flavors to meld beautifully as you continue layering the other ingredients.
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Add half of the drained sauerkraut next, followed by half of the shredded Swiss cheese. The melting cheese will bind all these wonderful flavors together!
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Repeat the layering process with the remaining rye bread cubes, corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. This ensures every bite is packed with a delightful mix!
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Drizzle Thousand Island dressing generously over the top. If you’re using caraway seeds, sprinkle them on for an extra flavor kick that’s reminiscent of traditional Reuben sandwiches.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for 30 minutes. This keeps everything moist and flavorful during the first half of baking.
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Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown. You’re aiming for that inviting crispy finish that will have everyone flocking to the table.
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Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve those delicious, hearty portions.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Reuben Casserole preparations are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you precious time when you’re juggling a hectic schedule! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance—simply layer the ingredients as per the directions, cover, and refrigerate. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also means you can pop it straight into the oven the next day. If you need to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to bake from frozen, just increase the cooking time by a bit. To maintain that signature gooeyness, be sure to cover it with foil during the first half of baking. You’ll have a delicious, convenient meal waiting for you whenever those cravings hit!
What to Serve with Reuben Casserole?
There’s nothing quite like creating a full, heartwarming meal that brings friends and family together around the table.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the casserole with a hint of earthiness.
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Crispy Fried Potatoes: Golden brown fried potatoes introduce a delightful textural contrast with a savory crunch that perfectly complements the casserole’s softness.
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Classic Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw brings in crisp cabbage and a tangy dressing, providing a refreshing, crunchy counterpart to the creamy casserole.
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Sweet Pickles: The sweet and tangy bite of pickles enriches the flavors of this dish, enhancing the nostalgic deli taste of the Reuben.
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Garlic Bread Sticks: Soft, buttery garlic bread offers a comforting side that’s perfect for mopping up the delicious Thousand Island dressing drizzled on the casserole.
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Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the savory flavors of the corned beef without overpowering the meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich, silky mousse rounds off the meal delightfully, contrasting the savory with a sweet, smooth finish.
Reuben Casserole shines best with a mix of textures and flavors, creating a complete dining experience perfect for any occasion.
How to Store and Freeze Reuben Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the casserole completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Reuben Casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
Tip: To revive the casserole’s cheesy goodness, cover with foil during reheating, and uncover for the last 5 minutes to achieve a crispy top.
Reuben Casserole Variations
Ready to put your own spin on this comforting dish? Let your creativity shine through with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Whole Wheat Bread: Swap rye for whole wheat bread for a healthier option rich in fiber, while still deliciously hearty.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the corned beef with shredded jackfruit or tempeh for a plant-based twist that maintains that cherished Reuben flavor.
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Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar instead of Swiss cheese for an extra kick of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the layers for a zesty heat that elevates the casserole’s bold flavors.
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Savory Sauerkraut: Try flavored sauerkraut, such as garlic or spicy kimchi, to bring in new taste dimensions without changing the base recipe.
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Batch of Greens: Mix in fresh spinach or kale with sauerkraut for a nutrient boost and a splash of color—your body will thank you!
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French Dressing Twist: Replace Thousand Island dressing with French dressing for a tangy, sweet alternative that’s equally delightful.
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Kid-Friendly Version: Use a milder cheese like mozzarella and reduce sauerkraut for a kid-friendly casserole that’s still packed with flavors they’ll love.
Embrace these variations to create your perfect Reuben Casserole, transforming it into a personalized masterpiece!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure to use day-old rye bread for the Reuben Casserole as it absorbs the flavors without turning mushy.
- When layering the ingredients, distribute them evenly to promote even cooking and flavor throughout the casserole.
- To achieve a perfectly melty top, finish baking uncovered so the cheese becomes bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; this will help the layers set for easier slicing and serving.
Reuben Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of rye bread should I use for the Reuben Casserole?
Absolutely! Day-old rye bread is the best choice for this casserole. It holds up better against the layers of moisture from the sauerkraut and dressing. Fresh bread can become too soggy, while day-old bread absorbs flavors beautifully without losing its texture.
How should I store leftovers of the Reuben Casserole?
To keep your casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled down completely before sealing it. This helps maintain its delicious flavors and textures!
Can I freeze Reuben Casserole, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze it! For the best results, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This way, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its taste. For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes.
What should I do if my Reuben Casserole turns out too dry?
If you find your casserole is a bit dry, it could be because it didn’t have enough moisture from the sauerkraut or dressing, or it was overbaked. To revive it, you can add a bit of extra Thousand Island dressing on the servings and cover it with foil while reheating. This will help regain some of the moisture!
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Very much so! You can use gluten-free bread in place of rye bread and make sure the corned beef and Thousand Island dressing are gluten-free as well. This way, anyone with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy the wonderful flavors of Reuben Casserole without worry.
Do I need to adjust any ingredients with specific dietary restrictions?
For those with allergies, be cautious about the dressing and cheese. Many brands offer dairy-free and gluten-free options. I often make my own Thousand Island dressing using dairy-free mayonnaise as a base, which allows everyone at the table to enjoy this comforting dish!
Reuben Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Layer half of the rye bread cubes in the bottom of the greased dish.
- Spread half of the shredded corned beef over the bread.
- Add half of the drained sauerkraut followed by half of the shredded Swiss cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining rye bread cubes, corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
- Drizzle Thousand Island dressing generously over the top and sprinkle caraway seeds if using.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
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