Description
This Reuben Bake is a warm, comforting casserole that layers tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese over buttered rye bread cubes, all topped with creamy thousand island dressing and optional caraway seeds and Parmesan for added flavor. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner with classic deli flavors in an easy baked form.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb corned beef (cooked and sliced, or deli-style corned beef)
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup thousand island dressing (or Russian dressing)
- 1 loaf rye bread, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Bread Layer: Cube the rye bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Pour the melted butter over the bread cubes, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly with butter.
- Arrange Bread Layer: Spread the buttered bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a solid base layer.
- Layer the Corned Beef: Evenly distribute the sliced corned beef over the bread cubes, ensuring a uniform layer for balanced flavor in each serving.
- Add Sauerkraut Layer: Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly on top of the corned beef, adding tang and moisture to the dish.
- Top with Swiss Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the sauerkraut layer to create a melty, rich middle layer.
- Drizzle Dressing: Pour the thousand island dressing over the cheese layer, spreading it gently to cover the surface for a creamy, tangy flavor.
- Add Caraway Seeds (Optional): Sprinkle a teaspoon of caraway seeds over the dressing if you want to add a traditional Reuben flavor boost.
- Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Add grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and to help develop a crispy, golden crust when baked.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until heated through and ingredients meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven to set and make it easier to cut and serve.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a hearty, layered dish packed with classic Reuben flavors that everyone will love.
Notes
- For best results, use good quality rye bread for authentic flavor and texture.
- You can use deli-style corned beef for convenience or cooked corned beef slices if preferred.
- Draining the sauerkraut well prevents excess moisture and sogginess.
- Caraway seeds add traditional Reuben flavor but can be omitted if not preferred.
- Letting the bake rest before serving helps it hold together for cleaner serving portions.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated covered in the oven to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
