Description
This delicious Reuben Casserole captures the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a warm, comforting baked dish. Featuring layers of rye bread, savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melted Swiss cheese, this casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Mixture
- 6-8 slices light rye bread, cubed
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Filling
- 1 pound deli corned beef, coarsely chopped
- 14.5 ounces canned sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups Thousand Island dressing
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Season the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the rye bread cubes with melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure each bread cube is evenly coated with the seasonings, which add flavor and aroma.
- Layer the Bottom Bread: Spread half of the seasoned bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer of the casserole.
- Add Corned Beef: Distribute half of the chopped corned beef evenly over the bread layer to provide savory, meaty texture and taste.
- Add Sauerkraut: Spoon half of the drained sauerkraut over the corned beef, spreading it out evenly for a tangy contrast and moisture.
- Pour Dressing: Drizzle ¾ cup of Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut layer, smoothing it with a spatula to cover the entire surface for added creaminess and flavor.
- Sprinkle Cheese: Cover the dressing with 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, creating a melty, savory cheese layer that binds the casserole.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering steps with the remaining seasoned bread cubes, corned beef, sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing, and finish with the last cup of shredded Swiss cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to ensure the ingredients meld together and heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and golden brown on top, indicating a perfect, bubbly finish.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes to set before serving, allowing the layers to hold together and enhancing flavors. Enjoy your warm, hearty Reuben Casserole!
Notes
- Use light rye bread for authentic Reuben flavor, but any sturdy bread can work.
- Draining and rinsing the sauerkraut reduces excess saltiness.
- Thousand Island dressing can be homemade or store-bought depending on preference.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
