If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich, you’re going to love this Crescent Reuben Bake! This delightful dish combines all the savory flavors of a Reuben sandwich – corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing – and wraps them up in a flaky crescent roll crust. It’s the perfect meal for lunch, dinner, or even a special brunch. Simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this Crescent Reuben Bake is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 tube of refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained well
- ½ pound thinly sliced corned beef
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- ¼ cup Thousand Island dressing
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Crescent Roll Crust:
- Open the tube of crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a lightly greased baking sheet. Press the dough to seal the perforations, creating one large rectangular sheet of dough.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Arrange the slices of Swiss cheese over the dressing, covering the entire surface.
- Evenly distribute the thinly sliced corned beef over the cheese layer.
- Spread the well-drained sauerkraut over the corned beef.
- Roll and Bake:
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll up the dough, encasing all the filling ingredients. Pinch the seam and ends to seal the roll.
- Place the roll seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Let the Crescent Reuben Bake cool for a few minutes before slicing into portions.
- Serve warm, possibly with extra Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of caraway seeds on top of the roll before baking for an extra authentic Reuben flavor.
- Rye Flavor: Use rye crescent roll dough, if available, for an even more traditional Reuben taste.
- Make it Spicy: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the corned beef with vegetarian deli slices and use a vegan Swiss cheese alternative to make a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
Keto Version:
- For a keto-friendly version, use a low-carb dough alternative. There are various recipes available for keto crescent roll dough that you can use as a substitute. Ensure the other ingredients, like Thousand Island dressing and sauerkraut, are also low-carb.
Low Carb Version:
- Similar to the keto version, you can use a low-carb dough alternative or simply reduce the amount of dough used and increase the filling ingredients to keep the carb count lower.
The Crescent Reuben Bake is a delicious, convenient twist on the traditional Reuben sandwich, perfect for any meal or gathering. With its flaky crescent roll crust and rich, savory filling, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try out this recipe and enjoy the hearty, satisfying flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a whole new way!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare Crescent Reuben Bake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Remove it from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature.
Q: Can I freeze Crescent Reuben Bake?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked Crescent Reuben Bake. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Q: What side dishes go well with Crescent Reuben Bake?
A: Serve it with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or a cup of soup for a complete meal. Potato salad or pickles also make great accompaniments.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Q: How can I make sure the sauerkraut is well-drained?
A: To ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained, place it in a fine-mesh sieve and press down with the back of a spoon to remove excess liquid. You can also squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel.
Q: Can I use homemade crescent roll dough?
A: Yes, homemade crescent roll dough can be used if you prefer. Just make sure to roll it out into a similar size and shape as the store-bought dough.
Enjoy your Crescent Reuben Bake, a delicious twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
