A Comforting Twist on a Classic Sandwich

If you’re a fan of the iconic Reuben sandwich, you’re going to love this Reuben Casserole. This dish captures all the rich, tangy, and cheesy goodness of the beloved deli sandwich but in an easy-to-make casserole form. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, hosting a gathering, or looking for a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Reuben Casserole is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and effortless comfort food. It features layers of hearty rye bread, tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, creamy Russian dressing, and gooey Swiss cheese—all baked to perfection. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this simple yet delicious casserole, you’ll need:

6 slices rye bread, cubed
1 (16-ounce) can sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
1 pound deli-sliced corned beef, cut into strips
¾ cup Russian-style salad dressing
Cooking spray
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen essentials:

9×13-inch casserole dish
Aluminum foil
Cooking spray
Sharp knife for slicing corned beef
Measuring cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Also, spray one sheet of aluminum foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread cubed rye bread evenly in the bottom of the dish. Layer sauerkraut over the bread, followed by the corned beef strips.
Add the Dressing: Pour Russian dressing evenly over the layered ingredients.
Bake the First Round: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (sprayed side down) and bake for 20 minutes.
Add the Cheese: Remove and discard the foil. Sprinkle Swiss cheese evenly over the casserole.
Final Bake: Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of pickles or a crisp green salad.

Tips and Variations

Make It Crispier: Toast the rye bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes before assembling to add extra crunch.
Substitutions: If you don’t have Russian dressing, you can use Thousand Island dressing as a tasty alternative.
Add More Flavor: Sprinkle caraway seeds over the casserole before baking to enhance the classic rye bread flavor.
Make It Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a teaspoon of horseradish to the dressing for an extra kick.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Best Food and Drink Pairings

Side Dishes: Serve with a side of potato chips, a fresh cucumber salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Drinks: A cold beer, such as a pilsner or an Irish stout, pairs wonderfully with the flavors of this casserole. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a classic ginger ale or iced tea.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use a different type of bread?

Rye bread is essential for that classic Reuben flavor, but you can use pumpernickel or a hearty whole wheat bread if needed.

3. What’s the difference between Russian dressing and Thousand Island dressing?

Russian dressing is spicier and has more of a mustard-forward flavor, while Thousand Island dressing is slightly sweeter due to the addition of pickle relish.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

It’s not recommended, as the texture of the bread and sauerkraut may become soggy after thawing. However, you can freeze the components separately and assemble them when ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Reuben Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor. Whether you’re a longtime Reuben lover or trying it for the first time, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Give it a try, share this recipe with your friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes!