Reuben Casserole

Name: Reuben Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491923H59M59S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 pound deli corned beef, coarsely chopped; 14.5 ounces can sauerkraut, drained and rinsed; 1 1/2 cups Thousand Island dressing; 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided

By:

Marry

Published:

February 12, 2026

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Reuben Casserole is a comfort food lover’s dream, blending the classic flavors of the famed Reuben sandwich into a cozy, all-in-one dish. Whether you’re planning a fun family dinner or hosting friends for a game night, this casserole has got you covered. The layers of hearty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese are absolutely irresistible. And the best part? It’s super easy to throw together, making it the perfect recipe for anyone, even if you’re new in the kitchen. As the casserole bakes, your kitchen will fill with delicious aromas that will leave everyone eager to dig in. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s chat about why this Reuben Casserole will become a new favorite for you and your loved ones.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this Reuben casserole lies in its wonderful combination of flavors and textures. Each bite delivers that classic Reuben sandwich taste, yet it’s so much simpler to prepare. With the right layering of ingredients, you’ll enjoy an even distribution of flavors throughout the dish. This ensures that no matter what forkful you grab, you’ll be met with juicy corned beef, savory cheese, and tangy dressing. That means less fuss in the kitchen and more satisfaction on your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Casserole

Imagine sitting down to a warm, comforting meal that feels homemade but requires minimal effort. This Reuben casserole provides just that! Perfect for weeknight dinners or larger gatherings, you’ll find it’s both hearty and unique. It brings a twist to traditional sandwich fare while being incredibly satisfying. The blend of textures—crunchy rye bread, creamy dressing, tender meat—will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients

To whip up this delicious Reuben Casserole, you’ll need:

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
1 pound deli corned beef, coarsely chopped
14.5 ounces can sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
1 1/2 cups Thousand Island dressing
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided

Gather all these ingredients to make the cooking process even smoother. You’ll have everything needed right at your fingertips, making it easy to assemble this delightful dish in no time.

Preparing the Dish

Preheat the Oven

Before you start mixing, it’s important to set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives it enough time to heat up while you’re preparing. While waiting, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This will prevent any sticking and ensure that your casserole comes out easily.

Season the Bread

In a spacious bowl, combine the bread cubes with the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until every piece is evenly coated with the buttery goodness. This seasoning is where the flavor starts to build, so don’t rush through this step!

First Layer of Bread

Now, take half of the seasoned bread cubes and spread them evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This forms a solid foundation for your Reuben casserole, helping hold everything together as it bakes.

Add Corned Beef

Next, scatter half of the coarsely chopped corned beef over the bread layer. Make sure to spread it evenly across the bread base. This savory layer of meat is what truly captures the essence of a classic Reuben.

Layer the Sauerkraut

Now it’s time to add some tang! Spoon half of the drained sauerkraut over the corned beef. Spread it out smoothly to ensure every bite has a hint of that delicious tangy flavor.

Pour Thousand Island Dressing

Pour ¾ cup of Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut layer. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, making sure every part gets covered. This creamy dressing adds that classic Reuben taste that ties everything together.

First Cheese Layer

Next up is the cheese! Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese over the dressing. This cheesy goodness melts perfectly into the layers as it bakes, creating that wonderful gooey texture everyone loves.

Repeat the Layers

Now, it’s time to repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. So, take the rest of the seasoned bread cubes, followed by the remaining chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, and dressing. Finish it off with the last cup of shredded Swiss cheese on top. This final layer is what makes the casserole extra special, giving it a beautiful golden crust.

Baking the Casserole

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After this, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll want it hot and bubbly with a golden topping.

Cooling and Serving

Once baked perfectly, take it out and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Once cool, cut into squares, and enjoy every bite of your scrumptious Reuben Casserole!

Serving Suggestions

For a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole, pair it with a light salad or side of coleslaw. The crunchy, crisp textures of salad perfectly balance the casserole’s heartiness, making for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Success

For an extra flavor kick, think about adding garlic herbs or various spices into the bread mixture. This small addition can elevate the overall taste.
Be sure to drain the sauerkraut well. This prevents your casserole from becoming soggy, ensuring a perfect texture that you’ll love.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the light rye bread for whole grain or even sourdough. This simple change offers a completely different flavor profile. Additionally, you can experiment by using different types of cheese too—like provolone or mozzarella—to add a unique twist to the traditional recipe.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven for the best texture.

Pairing Ideas

Complete your meal with a crisp lager or a classic cola. These beverages complement the savory flavors beautifully, making every bite even more enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day before! Just cover it and refrigerate. Bake it the next day for a quick ready-to-eat meal.

Can I use turkey instead of corned beef?
Absolutely! Turkey, pastrami, or even veggie substitutes would work well if you’re looking for alternatives.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Of course! Simply use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for everyone.

How long should I bake leftovers?
Reheat leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, feel free to freeze the uncooked casserole! Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

This Reuben Casserole is a delightful mix of flavors that will transport you to deli heaven. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a heartwarming meal. Enjoy its layers of flavor and the rich traditions they represent, perfect for sharing a delicious experience with family and friends.