ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients You’ll Need
This simple recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, and you can likely find most of them already in your kitchen.
- 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced (or use leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day!)
- 8 slices rye bread, cubed (preferably a bit stale to absorb the sauce)
- 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup Russian dressing (or Thousand Island dressing if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for an extra tang)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Homemade Reuben Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish to ensure the bake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Start by layering the cubed rye bread at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the base of your casserole and will soak up all the delicious juices during baking.
Next, evenly spread the corned beef on top of the bread. Then, layer the sauerkraut over the corned beef. This adds the perfect tang to balance out the richness of the meat.
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut, making sure it covers the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the Russian dressing, melted butter, milk, and Dijon mustard (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This creamy sauce will bring everything together and create a golden, bubbly finish on top.
Pour the sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Use a spatula or spoon to gently press down the bread to help it absorb the sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Reuben Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheese will be hot and gooey, and the bread will have absorbed all the savory flavors of the corned beef and dressing. Serve this Reuben bake with a simple side salad or some pickles to complete the meal.
Tips for the Perfect Reuben Bake
- Use Stale Bread: If you can, use slightly stale rye bread. It will absorb the sauce better and give the casserole a heartier texture. If your bread is fresh, just toast it lightly before using.
- Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a stronger tang, feel free to add a bit more Dijon mustard or Russian dressing. You can also swap in Thousand Island dressing for a sweeter flavor.
- Add Veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, try adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the layers. They’ll blend in perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Make It Ahead: This Reuben bake can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a quick and easy dinner.
- Go Vegetarian: Want to make this dish vegetarian? You can replace the corned beef with a meat substitute like tempeh or seitan to give it a similar texture and flavor.
Conclusion
The Homemade Reuben Bake is a perfect twist on a classic sandwich. It combines all the beloved flavors of a Reuben in a simple, oven-baked casserole that’s just as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner, a cozy meal to feed the family, or a dish to impress guests, this Reuben bake has got you covered. Easy to make, comforting, and full of flavor—this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household! Enjoy every melty, cheesy bite! 🧀🍞
ADVERTISEMENT
