Quick and Easy Baked Reuben Casserole Recipe: A Hearty Dish for Reuben Lovers

If you love the iconic flavors of a Reuben sandwich, this Baked Reuben Casserole is going to be your new favorite comfort food! Imagine all the delicious elements of a Reuben – savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melty Swiss cheese – but in a warm, cheesy casserole form. Perfect for family dinners or bringing to a potluck, this hearty dish is an easy way to feed a crowd while delivering bold, satisfying flavors.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first came across this recipe at the Recipes by Lisa Facebook page, and after trying it out, I just had to share it. It’s a fun, cozy meal that transforms a classic deli sandwich into something perfect for a chilly evening.

A Little Backstory

The Reuben sandwich is an American classic, believed to have originated in the early 20th century. Its combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing has made it a deli favorite for decades. The baked casserole version of this sandwich takes all those flavors and layers them in a dish that’s perfect for sharing. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the blend of tangy, cheesy, and savory in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb sliced corned beef (deli-style), chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 8 slices rye bread, cubed
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Optional: caraway seeds for garnish

How to Make This Delicious Baked Reuben Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly, creating that golden, bubbly top we all love.
2. Layer the Ingredients
   In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cubed rye bread across the bottom. Next, spread the chopped corned beef evenly over the bread. Follow this by adding a layer of drained sauerkraut. Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the top. Finally, sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut.
3. Add More Bread and Cheese
   Add the remaining cubed rye bread on top of the cheese layer, followed by sprinkling the rest of the Swiss cheese over the bread.
4. Melt the Butter
   Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the casserole. This will help give the bread cubes that irresistible golden crisp.
5. Bake to Perfection
   Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread cubes on top are golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve
   For an authentic Reuben touch, sprinkle some caraway seeds on top before serving. Enjoy the rich flavors of corned beef and sauerkraut with the melty Swiss cheese, all in one cozy, comforting casserole.

Pro Tip:

Serve this casserole with extra Thousand Island dressing or pickles on the side for dipping. It adds an extra tangy layer to each bite and pairs perfectly with the casserole’s rich, cheesy flavors.

Cultural Origins of the Reuben

The Reuben sandwich has long been associated with New York’s deli culture, although its true origins are debated. Some say it was created by Reuben Kulakofsky, a grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, while others attribute it to Arnold Reuben, a New York deli owner. Either way, the Reuben has cemented its place as a beloved American classic. The combination of corned beef and sauerkraut reflects influences from Eastern European and Jewish immigrant cuisines, making it a delicious melting pot of flavors.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the corned beef for a plant-based deli-style alternative. You can also use sauerkraut and cheese substitutes to make the dish fully vegan.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free rye bread or your favorite gluten-free bread alternative.
• Low-Carb Twist: Skip the bread entirely and layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese in a casserole dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake for a delicious low-carb, high-protein option.

Perfect Pairings:

This Baked Reuben Casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of dill pickles or a fresh cucumber salad for a crunchy contrast. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of warm tomato soup for a truly comforting meal.

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