Reuben Bake Casserole

The Reuben Bake Casserole is the ultimate combination of flavors from the iconic Reuben sandwich, all in one easy-to-make dish. Layered with rye bread, pastrami or corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, this casserole serves as the perfect solution for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a dish for a potluck, this baked version of the classic sandwich will become a hit.

What Is a Reuben Bake Casserole?

The Reuben sandwich is a staple in American cuisine, with its roots firmly planted in either New York or Omaha, depending on who you ask. This beloved sandwich typically features layers of pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and dressing on rye bread. The casserole version combines all these flavors in a baked dish, eliminating the need to assemble individual sandwiches. The result? A warm, gooey, and flavorful meal perfect for sharing.

If you’re a fan of classic American flavors, you might also want to try dishes like Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs, which also play on the combination of simple ingredients to create something amazing.

Ingredients For Reuben Bake Casserole

To create the Reuben Bake Casserole, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:

Rye Bread: Whether you use light or dark rye bread is a matter of preference, but rye is essential for that authentic flavor.
Pastrami or Corned Beef: Both meats work well in this dish. Pastrami adds a smoky richness, while corned beef offers a saltier, brinier taste.
Sauerkraut: The tangy sauerkraut brings balance to the richness of the meat and cheese.
Swiss Cheese: Known for its nutty flavor, Swiss cheese pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Thousand Island or Russian Dressing: Choose Thousand Island dressing for a slightly sweeter profile, or go with Russian dressing if you prefer a more piquant kick.
Dill Pickles: Adding chopped dill pickles or relish enhances the tanginess of the casserole.
Caraway Seeds: Optional but highly recommended for that distinctive flavor associated with rye bread.

Ingredient Substitutions For Reuben Bake Casserole

Bread Alternatives: If rye bread isn’t your thing, try using sourdough or even a hearty whole-grain bread for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Cheese Substitutes: Not a fan of Swiss cheese? Mozzarella or provolone are excellent milder alternatives.
Meat Variations: If pastrami or corned beef aren’t available, you can substitute them with leftover roast beef or even thinly sliced turkey for a lighter version.

For those looking to add a special touch to the casserole, consider roasting some vegetables on the side, like in this Brown Butter Honey Roasted Carrots with Garlic recipe, which complements the casserole’s rich flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Reuben Bake Casserole

Making a Reuben Bake Casserole is straightforward and perfect for any level of cook. Here’s a detailed guide:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Bread: Take four slices of rye bread and cut them into 2-inch cubes. Spread them evenly in a greased 11×7-inch baking dish. For the remaining bread slices, pulse them in a food processor to create fine breadcrumbs.
Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread half of the pastrami or corned beef over the bread cubes.
- Add a layer of drained sauerkraut on top.
- Sprinkle chopped dill pickles and optional caraway seeds over the sauerkraut.
- Top with 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a final sprinkling of cheese.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 3 beaten eggs, Thousand Island dressing, and a tablespoon of yellow mustard. Pour this mixture evenly over the layers in the casserole dish.
Top with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the rye bread crumbs over the top of the casserole and cover it with foil.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the top to become golden and crisp.
Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing, to allow the layers to set.

Serving Suggestions

This Reuben Bake Casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Serve it with a tangy potato salad or coleslaw for a contrast of textures and flavors.
Complement the richness of the casserole with a light and refreshing cucumber salad.
For something a bit more indulgent, try pairing it with roasted vegetables or these savory Cheddar Bombs.

Whether you’re enjoying it as the main attraction at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress.

Reuben Casserole for Leftovers

One of the best things about this casserole is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store and serve it later:

Refrigeration: Cover the leftover casserole tightly and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to four days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Freezing: If you want to save the casserole for another day, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

Creative Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic Reuben Bake Casserole recipe, you can start experimenting with different variations:

Low-Carb Option: Swap out the bread for cauliflower florets or use low-carb bread to make a keto-friendly version.
Spicy Reuben Casserole: Add a few tablespoons of spicy mustard to the egg mixture, or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the casserole before baking for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the pastrami or corned beef with sautéed mushrooms and onions, and opt for a vegetarian dressing.

These twists on the traditional recipe will keep things exciting and allow you to customize the dish to your tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, this casserole can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of bread works best? Rye bread is the classic choice for this dish, but you can also use pumpernickel or even a hearty whole-grain loaf if you prefer a different texture.
How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy? Make sure to thoroughly drain the sauerkraut before layering it into the dish. Using slightly stale bread or toasting the bread cubes before layering them can also help prevent sogginess.
Can I substitute other types of meat? Yes! While pastrami and corned beef are traditional, feel free to substitute turkey or even ham for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

The Reuben Bake Casserole is the perfect dish for lovers of the classic Reuben sandwich and anyone looking to feed a crowd with minimal effort. Packed with layers of rich flavors, this casserole is easy to prepare and always a hit at the table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that pays homage to one of America’s most beloved sandwiches.

The Reuben sandwich has a rich history, with roots tracing back to New York and Omaha in the early 20th century. If you’re curious about the sandwich’s origins, you can explore the history of the Reuben sandwich for more details.

If you’re in the mood for even more comforting and easy-to-make dishes, check out What is a Cheddar Bomb for another hearty option that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether you’re gathering with family or friends, this casserole will satisfy everyone at the table.