Reuben Bake With Layers Of Corned Beef Recipe

The Zesty Reuben Bake With Layers Of Corned Beef Recipe

Crafting a mouthwatering reuben bake promises pure comfort food magic for sandwich enthusiasts.

Layers of tender corned beef nestle between crispy bread and melted swiss cheese.

Sauerkraut adds a tangy twist that cuts through rich, savory flavors.

Thousand island dressing weaves everything together in delectable harmony.

Memories of classic delicatessen sandwiches dance across your palate with each incredible bite.

Hearty and satisfying, this casserole transforms traditional sandwich ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next cozy dinner gathering.

Reasons To Crave Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef

  • Create Hearty Comfort Meal: Perfect for satisfying hunger with a classic flavor combination that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
  • Simplify Cooking Process: Minimal prep work and straightforward layering technique make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, reducing kitchen stress.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Profile: Blends tangy sauerkraut, rich corned beef, and creamy cheese into a delicious one-dish meal that appeals to multiple taste preferences.
  • Versatile Serving Option: Works wonderfully as a main course for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, providing a substantial and memorable dining experience.

What Goes Into Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef

For the Base:
  • Rye Bread: A rustic foundation that adds texture and traditional flavor to the casserole.
For the Protein:
  • Corned Beef: A dense, rich meat layer that provides the primary protein and deep savory taste.
For the Tangy Layer:
  • Sauerkraut: A fermented cabbage that brings a sharp, acidic element to balance the rich ingredients.
For the Custard Mixture:
  • Eggs, Heavy Cream, Milk: A creamy base that binds the ingredients and creates a smooth, rich texture.
For the Seasonings:
  • Dijon Mustard, Caraway Seeds, Black Pepper, Salt: Spices and aromatics that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
For the Topping:
  • Swiss Cheese: A melty, golden layer that adds a rich, creamy finish to the casserole.

Easy Steps For Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish

Crank up the oven to a toasty 375°F and generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Bread Base

Rip the rye bread into rustic chunks and spread them across the bottom of the dish, creating a delicious foundation for the upcoming flavor explosion.

Step 3: Add Meaty Layer

Drape sliced corned beef over the bread cubes, forming a hearty and savory base that’ll make taste buds dance.

Step 4: Sprinkle Sauerkraut

Drain the sauerkraut completely and scatter it evenly over the corned beef, bringing a zingy punch to the casserole.

Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Eggs
  • Heavy cream
  • Whole milk

Whisk until smooth and silky.

Step 6: Season the Custard

Stir in these flavor bombs:
  • Dijon mustard
  • Caraway seeds
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Salt

Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.

Step 7: Pour the Custard

Slowly drizzle the seasoned mixture over the layers, allowing it to seep into every delicious crevice.

Step 8: Top with Cheese

Lay Swiss cheese slices across the top, creating a blanket of gooey, melty goodness.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top and a set center that’s firm to the touch.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Pull the casserole out and let it chill for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle and the layers to settle into a harmonious masterpiece.

Smart Ideas For Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef

  • Select Bread Wisely: Use day-old rye bread for better texture and absorption of custard mixture, preventing soggy results.
  • Drain Sauerkraut Completely: Squeeze out excess moisture to maintain the casserole's ideal consistency and prevent watery layers.
  • Layer Strategically: Arrange ingredients evenly to ensure balanced flavor distribution and consistent cooking throughout the dish.
  • Control Cheese Melt: Cover with Swiss cheese just before final baking stage to achieve a perfectly golden, crispy top without burning.
  • Resting Matters: Allow casserole to rest 10 minutes after baking to help layers set and enhance overall flavor melding.

Tasty Twists On Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef

  • Vegetarian Reuben Casserole: Replace corned beef with roasted portobello mushrooms or tempeh, maintaining the rich umami flavor while creating a meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Bake: Substitute rye bread with gluten-free bread cubes or cauliflower rice to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners without losing texture.
  • Low-Carb Reuben Deconstructed: Eliminate bread entirely and layer ingredients directly in the baking dish, using cauliflower as a base for a keto-friendly alternative.
  • Spicy Southwest Fusion Casserole: Add diced green chiles, swap caraway seeds for cumin, and incorporate pepper jack cheese to give the classic recipe a zesty southwestern spin.

Top Sides For Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef

  • Pair with Riesling: Crisp, slightly sweet German white wine cuts through the rich, fatty corned beef and complements the tangy sauerkraut, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
  • Serve with Dill Pickles: Crunchy, briny pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, dense casserole, adding a zesty counterpoint that cleanses the palate between bites.
  • Match with Hearty Slaw: Crunchy, vinegar-based coleslaw offers a light, acidic side that breaks up the heaviness of the dish, introducing a fresh texture and bright flavor profile.
  • Enjoy with Dark Beer: Robust, malty German-style dark lager or stout complements the deep, savory notes of corned beef and echoes the earthy caraway seeds in the casserole.

Storing Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef The Right Way

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the casserole fresh and preventing moisture loss.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for maximum 2 months; label with date and contents for easy tracking.
  • Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warmed, stirring midway to distribute heat evenly.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, place casserole in baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Quick Answers About Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef

  • What ingredients make this corned beef bake unique?

The combination of rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a creamy custard mixture creates a rich, layered dish with complex flavors and textures that blend traditional deli ingredients.

  • Is this recipe suitable for people who like tangy foods?

Absolutely! The sauerkraut and Dijon mustard provide a sharp, tangy element that cuts through the richness of the corned beef and cheese, creating a balanced and zesty flavor profile.

  • Can I use a different type of bread if I don't have rye?

While rye bread adds a distinctive flavor, you can substitute with sourdough or a hearty white bread. Just ensure the bread can absorb the custard mixture and provide a sturdy base for the casserole.

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Reuben Bake With Layers Of Corned Beef Recipe

Reuben Bake With Layers Of Corned Beef Recipe


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4.9 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 60-65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty Reuben Bake brings classic deli flavors into a comforting casserole, layering tender corned beef with melted Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut. Savory and satisfying, this dish delivers all the beloved tastes of a traditional Reuben sandwich in one delicious, easy-to-serve meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb corned beef, sliced
  • 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
  • 6 slices Swiss cheese
  • 4 slices rye bread, cubed

Binding/Liquid Ingredients:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy release of the casserole.
  2. Tear rye bread into rustic, bite-sized cubes and spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a hearty foundation for the bake.
  3. Layer sliced corned beef directly over the bread cubes, creating a dense, meaty base that will infuse the entire dish with rich flavor.
  4. Drain sauerkraut thoroughly and distribute it uniformly over the corned beef layer, adding a tangy and acidic dimension to the casserole.
  5. Whisk eggs, heavy cream, and milk together in a mixing bowl until completely smooth and well-integrated.
  6. Incorporate Dijon mustard, caraway seeds, black pepper, and salt into the liquid mixture, whisking vigorously to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
  7. Pour the seasoned custard mixture slowly and evenly over the layered ingredients, allowing it to seep into all the nooks and crannies.
  8. Arrange Swiss cheese slices across the top, covering the entire surface to create a golden, melted cheese crust.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy.
  10. Remove from oven and let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the layers to settle and flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • Swap rye bread with gluten-free alternatives like cauliflower crust or almond flour bread for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Reduce heavy cream and replace with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk to create a lighter, less caloric version of the dish.
  • Rinse sauerkraut under cold water to minimize saltiness and provide a milder tangy flavor for those who find traditional sauerkraut too intense.
  • Consider adding caramelized onions or sautéed bell peppers between layers to introduce extra depth and vegetable nutrition to the casserole.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 636
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 1164 mg
  • Fat: 48 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 250 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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