The Reuben sandwich holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide. With its layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and tangy Russian dressing tucked between slices of rye bread, it’s a classic that marries bold flavors in perfect harmony. But what if we told you there’s a way to take this deli delight to the next level? Enter the Reuben bake – a warm, cheesy, oven-baked twist on the traditional sandwich.
If you’re someone who loves comfort food or enjoys hosting memorable gatherings, the Reuben bake is your next kitchen project. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare a crowd-pleasing Reuben bake, from understanding its history to crafting your own masterpiece at home.
Get ready to turn up the heat and give this beloved sandwich a makeover!
What is a Reubens bake
Before we heat up our ovens, let’s quickly explore what defines a Reuben Bake. A Reuben Bake transforms the core elements of the classic sandwich into a warm, gooey casserole that delivers the flavors you love with an added layer of indulgence. Think of it as a one-dish meal that takes all the components of a Reuben sandwich and assembles them into an oven-ready dish, perfect for whipping up and serving to a hungry crowd.
What makes it truly special:
It’s a versatile dish that’s customizable to your preferences.
It’s easy to prepare in advance, making it ideal for parties or weeknight dinners.
Baking enhances the flavors, creating a comforting, melty, and slightly crispy bite in every spoonful.
Now, with your appetite sufficiently piqued, let’s move on to crafting your perfect Reuben bake!
Ingredients you need for a Reuben bake
Every great dish begins with high-quality ingredients, and a Reuben bake is no exception. To make this culinary joy, you’ll need the following staples:
Core ingredients:
Corned beef (about 2 cups, chopped or shredded): The heart of the dish. Opt for tender, flavorful cuts.
Swiss cheese (2 cups, shredded): Adds a creamy, nutty richness.
Sauerkraut (1½ cups, drained): Brings the tangy, fermented flavor that is key to any Reuben.
Rye bread (4-6 slices, cubed): Provides the signature flavor of the classic sandwich while adding structure to the bake.
Russian dressing (or Thousand Island, ¾ cup): A bold and tangy dressing that binds the flavors together.
For the custard base:
Eggs (3 large): Acts as the binder for the bake.
Milk or cream (1 cup): Ensures your bake is rich and moist.
Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Adds a slight golden brown crisp on top.
Optional add-ins:
Caraway seeds (1 tsp): For an added authentic rye bread flavor.
Chives or parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Make sure all of your ingredients are prepped and ready before you begin assembling your masterpiece. Now, onto the magic of assembly and baking.
Step-by-step guide to making a Reuben bake
Making a Reuben bake is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a no-fail recipe:
Step 1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures an evenly baked dish that’s easy to serve.
Step 2. Prep the bread base
Cut rye bread slices into medium-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces). Scatter half of the bread cubes evenly into the bottom of your baking dish. This will form the sturdy base of your bake.
Step 3. Layer the components
- Begin by layering half of your corned beef over the bread.
- Follow with half of the sauerkraut and then a layer of shredded Swiss cheese.
- Repeat with a second layer, starting with more bread cubes, corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese. This creates depth and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4. Pour in the custard mixture
Whisk together eggs, milk (or cream), melted butter, and your Russian dressing until smooth. For extra flavor, stir in caraway seeds if you’re using them. Slowly pour the mixture evenly over your layered dish, ensuring it soaks into the bread.
Step 5. Bake to perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. A toothpick or knife inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating that the custard is set.
Step 6. Serve and enjoy
Allow the Reuben bake to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares or serving with a spoon. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added touch of elegance.
Now sit back, enjoy, and watch the compliments roll in!
Tips for customizing your Reuben bake
If you’re feeling adventurous or want to experiment with flavors, here are a few creative ways to customize your Reuben bake:
Switch up the protein: Use pastrami or turkey instead of corned beef for a twist on the traditional flavor.
Try different bread: Opt for pumpernickel or sourdough bread if rye isn’t your favorite.
Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread or skip the bread entirely and add cooked potatoes instead for a hearty take on the dish.
Vegetarian variation: Swap the meat for mushrooms or a plant-based protein alternative and use vegan cheese for a vegetarian-friendly version.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this dish your own.
Pairing ideas for your Reuben bake
A Reuben bake is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are a few complementary ideas:
Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Pickles or pickled vegetables for a crunchy side that complements the sauerkraut.
Potato salad or coleslaw for a classic deli-inspired pairing.
A cold lager or crisp white wine to round out the meal.
Why the Reuben bake deserves a spot in your recipe collection
The Reuben bake is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting, nostalgic celebration of bold flavors that bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a game night with friends, feeding a hungry family, or simply indulging in a gourmet meal solo, this bake is a guaranteed hit.
Plus, its simplicity and versatility make it an ideal recipe for cooks of all experience levels. It’s an approachable way to experiment in the kitchen while impressing your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share it with you.
Try your hand at a Reuben bake today
Ready to make your own Reuben bake? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and savor every moment of crafting (and eating) this iconic twist on a classic dish. Don’t forget to experiment, make it your own, and share it with loved ones.
If you give this recipe a try, we’d love to hear from you! Share your photos and tag us on social media to show off your finished dish.
Happy baking!
