Embark on a gastronomic adventure that marries the iconic Reuben sandwich with the creamy indulgence of macaroni and cheese. Discover the savory magic that unfolds when the rich flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and tangy Russian dressing unite in a comforting mac and cheese ensemble. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting Reuben Macaroni and Cheese—a dish that pays homage to tradition while introducing an exciting twist to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese Base:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Reuben Infusion:
- 1 lb corned beef, shredded
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup Russian dressing
- 1 cup dill pickles, diced
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1 – Boil the Macaroni:
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 – Roux Revelation:
- In a separate large pot, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
Step 3 – Milk Melody:
- Gradually whisk in whole milk, ensuring a lump-free mixture. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, usually around 5-7 minutes.
Step 4 – Cheese Crescendo:
- Add shredded Swiss, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses to the milk mixture, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes velvety. Season with salt and white pepper. Add Dijon mustard for depth of flavor.
Step 5 – Reuben Harmony:
- Gently fold the shredded corned beef, sauerkraut, diced dill pickles, and Russian dressing into the cheese sauce, ensuring an even distribution of the Reuben components. Optionally, add caraway seeds for a hint of rye bread flavor.
Step 6 – Combine and Conquer:
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the Reuben-infused cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated in the delightful mixture.
Step 7 – Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the Reuben Macaroni and Cheese into a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Cook Notes:
- Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the mac and cheese.
- Adjust the salt level carefully, as corned beef and other Reuben ingredients can contribute varying levels of saltiness.
Additional Tips:
- Toast extra caraway seeds in a dry pan before adding them to enhance their aromatic flavor.
- Experiment with different varieties of Swiss cheese, such as Gruyère or Emmental, for unique flavor profiles.
Variations:
Crispy Rye Crust: Add a crispy rye bread crumb crust by mixing crushed rye crackers with melted butter and sprinkling it over the mac and cheese before baking.
Thousand Island Drizzle: Serve with a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing over each portion for an extra burst of Reuben flavor.
Swiss Cheese Lovers: Increase the quantity of Swiss cheese or experiment with aged Swiss varieties for a bolder cheese presence.
Keto Version:
Keto-Friendly Cheese Choices: Opt for high-quality, full-fat cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, and mozzarella to maintain a keto-friendly mac and cheese.
Keto Russian Dressing: Create a keto-friendly Russian dressing using mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, chopped pickles, and a touch of horseradish.
Keto Bread Crumb Topping: Make a keto-friendly bread crumb topping using almond flour or crushed pork rinds mixed with melted butter.
Low-Carb Version:
Vegetable Noodle Swap: Replace traditional macaroni with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower florets to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Sauerkraut Options: Explore sauerkraut varieties with lower sugar content or make your own at home to control the carb levels.
Almond Flour Crunch: Create a low-carb alternative to the bread crumb topping using almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
As you savor the harmonious blend of Reuben elements with the creamy decadence of macaroni and cheese, let this dish transport you to the heart of deli-inspired indulgence. Whether you follow the original recipe, explore variations, or tailor it to specific dietary preferences, Reuben Macaroni and Cheese embodies the spirit of culinary creativity and the joy that comes from reinventing classic comforts.
Share the delight of Reuben Macaroni and Cheese with friends and family, making it a star at your gatherings and celebrations. As you relish the savory layers infused with the essence of a Reuben sandwich, appreciate the adaptability that allows this dish to cater to diverse tastes. It isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary revelation—a fusion of beloved classics that brings a new dimension to comfort food. Let Reuben Macaroni and Cheese become a symbol of innovation and indulgence in your kitchen, promising satisfaction and excitement with every mouthwatering spoonful.
