Dive into the comforting flavors of a Reuben sandwich with our irresistible Reuben Casserole recipe. This hearty and satisfying dish takes all the classic components of a Reuben—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing—and transforms them into a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or simply craving a taste of deli-inspired comfort food, this Reuben Casserole is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the step-by-step process of creating this flavorful masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of sliced corned beef or pastrami
- 6 slices of rye bread, divided
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) of sauerkraut
- 1 cup of diced dill pickles
- 4 cups of shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 teaspoons of caraway seeds
- 1 cup of milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of mustard
- 1/4 cup of Thousand Island dressing
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Layer half of the sliced corned beef or pastrami in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place 3 slices of rye bread on top of the meat, tearing them into pieces to fit as needed.
- Spread the sauerkraut evenly over the bread layer.
- Sprinkle the diced dill pickles over the sauerkraut.
- Top with half of the shredded Swiss cheese and sprinkle with caraway seeds.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining corned beef or pastrami, rye bread slices, sauerkraut, pickles, Swiss cheese, and caraway seeds.
- Make the Custard Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, mustard, and Thousand Island dressing until smooth and well combined.
- Pour Over the Casserole:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the foil from the baking dish and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Garnish with additional Thousand Island dressing, if desired, and enjoy the delicious flavors of a Reuben sandwich in casserole form!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Bread Selection: While rye bread is traditional for Reuben sandwiches, you can use any type of bread you prefer or have on hand. Sourdough or pumpernickel bread also work well in this recipe.
- Meat Options: If you prefer a leaner option, you can use turkey or chicken instead of corned beef or pastrami. Alternatively, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat altogether and adding extra sauerkraut and pickles.
- Cheese Variation: While Swiss cheese is classic for Reuben sandwiches, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use store-bought Thousand Island dressing or make my own? A: You can use either store-bought Thousand Island dressing or make your own at home. To make your own dressing, simply combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice until well mixed.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered with aluminum foil, for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Reuben Casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I omit the caraway seeds if I don’t like them? A: Yes, you can omit the caraway seeds if you prefer. They add a distinctive flavor to the casserole, but the dish will still be delicious without them.
Q: Can I make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb? A: Yes, you can make keto-friendly or low-carb substitutions by using low-carb bread or omitting the bread altogether and increasing the amount of sauerkraut and pickles. Use a sugar-free Thousand Island dressing and check the labels of the corned beef or pastrami to ensure they do not contain added sugars or high-carb ingredients.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
- Keto Version: Use low-carb or keto-friendly bread made from almond flour, coconut flour, or psyllium husk. Omit the brown sugar in the Thousand Island dressing and use a sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or stevia instead. Ensure that the corned beef or pastrami you use is free of added sugars and high-carb ingredients.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto version adjustments above, and consider reducing the amount of sauerkraut and pickles to further lower the carb content. You can also use a combination of shredded cabbage and pickles for added crunch and flavor.
Indulge in the savory goodness of a Reuben sandwich with our mouthwatering Reuben Casserole recipe. Whether enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this flavorful casserole is sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, each bite is a delicious homage to the classic deli sandwich. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
