Homemade Reuben Bake

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup Russian dressing (or Thousand Island dressing as an alternative)
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Homemade Reuben Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cube the rye bread: Slice the bread into small cubes or use pre-made rye bread crumbs.
3. Drain the sauerkraut: Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid any excess liquid in the bake.

Step 2: Layer the Bake

1. Layer the bread: Place the cubed rye bread evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. If you’re using rye bread crumbs, simply sprinkle them across the dish.
2. Add the corned beef: Layer the sliced corned beef on top of the bread cubes, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
3. Spread the sauerkraut: Add a layer of drained sauerkraut on top of the corned beef.
4. Top with Swiss cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut, covering the entire dish.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, mix together the Russian dressing, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
2. Drizzle the dressing: Pour the dressing mixture evenly over the top of the assembled layers in the baking dish.

Step 4: Bake the Reuben Bake

1. Pour melted butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. If you want extra flavor, you can sprinkle some garlic powder over the butter for an added kick.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese has melted into a gooey, bubbly layer.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let it cool: Once out of the oven, let the Reuben Bake rest for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together.
2. Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm. This dish is perfect on its own, or you can pair it with a simple side salad or some crispy potato wedges.

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Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance the richness of the Reuben Bake.
• Pickles: Serve with a few crunchy dill pickles or pickled vegetables to add some tang and crunch that complements the savory flavors.
• French Fries: For an indulgent meal, serve this casserole alongside crispy French fries or homemade potato chips.

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Tips for Success

• Use Leftover Corned Beef: If you’ve made corned beef for St. Patrick’s Day or any other occasion, this is a great way to use up leftovers. Just chop or slice it and layer it into the casserole.
• Customize the Cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can mix in a bit of provolone or even cheddar for a different flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble this Reuben Bake the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
• Adjust the Sauerkraut: If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, you can reduce the amount or skip it entirely for a more toned-down version.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Homemade Reuben Bake is a perfect twist on the beloved Reuben sandwich. It takes all the elements you love—savory corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and the zesty Russian dressing—and combines them into one easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole. The buttery, crispy top is the perfect finishing touch, adding texture and flavor to this hearty dish.

Whether you’re looking for an effortless family dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this Reuben Bake is sure to be a hit. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Try it today and enjoy the irresistible flavors of a Reuben sandwich in casserole form!