If you love the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich, you’re in for a treat with this Reuben Crescent Bake. This recipe transforms the traditional Reuben into a delicious and easy-to-make crescent roll bake, combining savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melty Swiss cheese all wrapped in flaky crescent dough. Perfect for a quick dinner, appetizer, or game day snack, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- ¼ cup Thousand Island dressing
- ½ lb. shaved corned beef deli meat
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough:
- Open the can of crescent rolls and unroll the dough onto a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press the seams together to form a single rectangular sheet of dough.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Evenly distribute the shredded corned beef over the dressing.
- Layer the slices of Swiss cheese on top of the corned beef.
- Spread the drained sauerkraut over the Swiss cheese layer.
- Form the Bake:
- Carefully roll up the dough starting from one long side, encasing the filling ingredients.
- Pinch the seam and ends to seal the roll.
- Place the roll seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Allow the Reuben Crescent Bake to 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 a more authentic Reuben flavor.
- Rye Twist: Use rye crescent roll dough if available, to mimic the classic rye bread used in Reuben sandwiches.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version.
- 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. Various recipes are 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 reduce the amount of dough used and increase the filling ingredients to keep the carb count lower.
The Reuben Crescent Bake is a delightful 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. Simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy the classic Reuben flavors in a whole new way!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare Reuben Crescent 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 Reuben Crescent Bake?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked Reuben Crescent 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 Reuben Crescent 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 Reuben Crescent Bake, a delicious twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
