Description
Hearty Reuben Bake blends classic deli sandwich flavors into a comforting casserole that brings together corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted swiss cheese. Rich Russian dressing and crispy rye bread crumbs complete this satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1/2 pound (226 grams) corned beef, sliced
Bread and Cheese:
- 1 loaf rye bread, sliced
- 1 cup (113 grams) Swiss cheese, shredded
Condiments and Seasonings:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) sauerkraut, drained
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) thousand island dressing
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Arrange oven rack in middle position and heat to 350F (175C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Evenly spread thousand island dressing across one side of each rye bread slice, creating a smooth, uniform layer.
- Construct the first base layer in the prepared dish by placing bread slices dressing-side facing upward, ensuring complete coverage of the dish’s bottom.
- Distribute the first portion of corned beef, creating an even, substantial layer over the bread.
- Scatter sauerkraut generously across the corned beef, allowing for balanced coverage.
- Sprinkle Swiss cheese to completely blanket the sauerkraut, creating a rich, melty foundation.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients, mirroring the initial arrangement.
- Dust the top bread layer with caraway seeds for an aromatic, traditional finish.
- Gently brush the exposed bread surface with melted butter, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Shield the dish with aluminum foil, creating a protective barrier during initial baking.
- Bake covered for 20 minutes, then remove foil to allow browning and crisping.
- Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until cheese melts completely and bread edges turn golden and crisp.
- Allow the bake to rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing to help ingredients set and cool slightly.
Notes
- Customize the dressing by mixing homemade thousand island or low-fat Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Select high-quality corned beef from a deli for maximum flavor and texture in the bake.
- Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent excess moisture making the dish soggy, ensuring crispy bread layers.
- Experiment with alternative breads like sourdough or gluten-free options to accommodate different dietary needs without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 432 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 830 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 19 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg