The Classic Hearty Reuben Bake is a delightful twist on the traditional Reuben sandwich. This casserole version combines all the classic ingredients—rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing—into a warm, hearty, and satisfying dish. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this bake is sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of rye bread, cubed
- 1 pound thinly sliced or shredded corned beef
- 1 can (14 ounces) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups grated Swiss cheese
- 1 cup Thousand Island dressing
Directions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Cube the rye bread slices, shred or thinly slice the corned beef, and drain and rinse the sauerkraut.
- Layer Ingredients:
- Begin by layering half of the cubed rye bread in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Top with half of the corned beef, followed by half of the sauerkraut.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut layer.
- Drizzle half of the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the cheese layer.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients: rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
- Finish with Dressing:
- Drizzle the remaining Thousand Island dressing evenly over the top layer of cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the foil and allow the Reuben Bake to cool slightly before serving.
- Cut into squares and serve hot.
Helpful Tips:
- Bread Choice: Use a good-quality rye bread for the best flavor.
- Sauerkraut: Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained to prevent the dish from becoming too soggy.
- Cheese Variations: For a different flavor, try using a mixture of Swiss and Gruyère cheese.
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Toppings: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of caraway seeds for added flavor.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of bread?
- Yes, you can use pumpernickel or a seeded whole grain bread for variation.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can I add more ingredients to the bake?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Is there a substitute for Thousand Island dressing?
- You can make a homemade version by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish. Alternatively, use Russian dressing.
Total Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
Enjoy this delicious and comforting Classic Hearty Reuben Bake with its layers of savory goodness!
Recipe Card
Classic Hearty Reuben Bake
The Classic Hearty Reuben Bake is a delightful twist on the traditional Reuben sandwich. This casserole version combines all the classic ingredients—rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing—into a warm, hearty, and satisfying dish. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this bake is sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
- – 8 slices of rye bread cubed
- – 1 pound thinly sliced or shredded corned beef
- – 1 can 14 ounces sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- – 2 cups grated Swiss cheese
- – 1 cup Thousand Island dressing
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Prepare Ingredients:
- – Cube the rye bread slices, shred or thinly slice the corned beef, and drain and rinse the sauerkraut.
Layer Ingredients:
- – Begin by layering half of the cubed rye bread in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- – Top with half of the corned beef, followed by half of the sauerkraut.
- – Sprinkle half of the grated Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut layer.
- – Drizzle half of the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the cheese layer.
Repeat Layers:
- – Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients: rye bread, corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
Finish with Dressing:
- – Drizzle the remaining Thousand Island dressing evenly over the top layer of cheese.
Bake:
- – Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- – Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- – Once baked, remove the foil and allow the Reuben Bake to cool slightly before serving.
- – Cut into squares and serve hot.