
Homemade Reuben Bake
Description
If you love the classic Reuben sandwich, you’ll adore this Homemade Reuben Bake. This hearty, comforting dish combines all the traditional flavors of a Reuben into a deliciously layered bake. With tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and crispy rye bread, it’s a meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the classic Reuben flavors in a new, easy-to-serve format.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 8–10 slices rye bread, cubed (about 4–5 cups)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Filling:
- 1 pound corned beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (16-ounce) can sauerkraut, drained and rinsed (optional: rinse again for a milder flavor)
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing (or Reuben dressing of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 2 teaspoons caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish.
Prepare Bread:
In a large bowl, toss the cubed rye bread with the melted butter until evenly coated. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Layer Ingredients:
- Add Corned Beef: Layer the corned beef over the bread cubes.
- Add Sauerkraut: Sprinkle the sauerkraut (if using) over the corned beef.
- Add Cheese and Dressing: Distribute half of the shredded Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the cheese layer.
- Season: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and caraway seeds (if using).
Top and Bake:
Top with the remaining bread cubes and shredded Swiss cheese. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread cubes are golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serving Tips
- Serve Warm: For the best flavor and texture, serve your Homemade Reuben Bake warm from the oven. The cheese will be melty, and the bread cubes will have a delightful crispiness.
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, pickles, or coleslaw. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving to enhance the presentation and add a touch of freshness.
- Portion Sizes: Cut the bake into squares or rectangles for easy serving. It can be served as a main dish or a hearty side, depending on your meal plan.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Reuben Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before transferring to the container.
- Freezing: To freeze, cover the assembled (but unbaked) casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help restore the crispiness of the bread and melt the cheese evenly. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven method is preferred for maintaining texture.
- Avoid Overheating: Be cautious not to overheat the dish, as this can cause the bread to become too dry and the cheese to become rubbery.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Homemade Reuben Bake remains delicious and enjoyable even after the initial meal.