Classic Reuben Bake Layers

Layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and rye bread come together in this warm and hearty Classic Reuben Bake. Perfect for sharing, it delivers all the comforting flavors of a classic deli Reuben sandwich, baked into one easy, irresistible dinner dish.

I first made this recipe for a holiday dinner, and now it's a go-to favorite whenever my family craves an indulgent, toasty meal with just the right amount of richness.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound thinly sliced corned beef: Deli-prepared or pre-cooked. Provides the hearty and savory base flavors. Choose lean and thinly sliced for layering ease.
• 1 (14-ounce) can sauerkraut: Drained, rinsed and squeezed dry. Adds tangy brightness that balances the dish. Look for crisp sauerkraut with minimal added preservatives.
• 8 ounces shredded Swiss cheese: Creamy and lightly nutty flavor ties the layers together. Opt for freshly shredded for the best melting quality.
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing: Classic tangy-sweet layer that emulates the Reuben sandwich dressing.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to ensure the layers stay rich and moist.
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Brings slight spice and helps enhance flavor depth.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: A fresh herbal component that elevates the dish.
• 12 slices rye bread: Cubed into 1-inch pieces. Traditional rye bread toasts beautifully and firmly holds its structure in baking. Look for a bread with caraway seeds for an authentic touch.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Coats the bread for golden toasting during baking.

Optional Toppings

• Rye croutons for extra crunch as a garnish.
• Caraway seeds to enhance flavors in the finished dish.

How to Make Classic Reuben Bake

Toast the Rye Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F:

Toss the rye bread cubes with melted butter until evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly toasted and golden. Once toasted, remove the bread and set it aside.

Prepare the Reuben Filling

Use a large mixing bowl:

Combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Ensure that the sauerkraut is thoroughly squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture in the bake.

Assemble the Bake

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish:

Layer half of the toasted rye bread cubes at the bottom of the dish. Spread the prepared Reuben mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring an even layer. Scatter the remaining rye bread cubes across the top to cover the mixture completely.

Bake and Serve

Place the dish in your preheated oven:

Bake for 30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let the dish cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

The caraway-infused rye bread brings a comforting flavor that reminds me of childhood dinners at my grandmother’s home.

Storage Tips

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat use a 350°F oven to maintain its crispness or microwave for convenience.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find rye bread substitute with pumpernickel bread for a similar flavor profile. For a lighter version try reduced-fat cheese and mayo. Sauerkraut can be swapped with tangy coleslaw if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Add a dollop of extra Thousand Island dressing on the side for those who enjoy an extra hit of tanginess.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh corned beef instead of deli-prepared?

Yes, fresh corned beef works perfectly. Cook it beforehand and slice it thinly before incorporating it in the dish.

→ How do I ensure the rye bread stays crispy?

Pre-toast the bread cubes in melted butter before assembling the bake. This helps maintain a crisp texture even after baking.

→ Can I substitute Thousand Island dressing?

Yes, you can use Russian dressing or even a simple mixture of mayonnaise and ketchup for a similar flavor profile.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

You can assemble the bake in advance and refrigerate it uncooked. When ready, bake it fresh for the best texture and flavor.

→ What pairs well with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a light soup to balance its hearty flavors.