The Ultimate Reuben Bake: A Savory and Comforting Casserole

Posted on April 13, 2025

If you’re a fan of Reuben sandwiches, you’re going to love the Reuben bake. This casserole version of the classic sandwich combines all the bold, savory flavors that Reuben lovers adore—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing—but in an easy-to-make, hearty casserole form. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner for busy weeknights or a comforting dish for a family gathering, this Reuben bake offers all the flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich in a fraction of the time.

The Reuben bake is an ideal solution for those who want to enjoy the deliciousness of a Reuben but prefer a less-messy, more convenient option. Instead of making individual sandwiches, you simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish, bake, and serve. The crescent roll dough forms a flaky crust, and the filling bakes together into a warm, savory dish that’s perfect for everyone at the table. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food with a modern twist.

If you’ve ever thought about making your own Reuben casserole, now’s the time. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, as it requires only a few ingredients, all of which are easy to find at your local grocery store. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so feel free to adjust the recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. Reuben casserole isn’t just for those who love the sandwich—it’s for anyone looking for an easy and satisfying meal.

To understand why this dish works so well, let’s take a look at what goes into it. From corned beef to Swiss cheese, each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish a success.

For a deeper dive into some of the ingredients, check out this Wikipedia page on Corned Beef for more information about this iconic meat. Similarly, if you’re curious about the origins of the Reuben Sandwich, it’s a great place to start exploring the history behind the dish.

The Appeal of the Reuben Casserole

The Reuben bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best elements of a Reuben sandwich in casserole form. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about flavor, texture, and creating a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. The magic of the Reuben casserole lies in the way the ingredients come together to create layers of deliciousness.

Bold Flavors: At the heart of the dish are the familiar flavors that make the Reuben sandwich a favorite. The richness of corned beef, the tanginess of sauerkraut, the meltiness of Swiss cheese, and the zesty creaminess of Thousand Island dressing come together perfectly. Each bite is a satisfying combination of savory, salty, and slightly sweet elements.
Comforting Texture: One of the best things about this casserole is the texture. The crescent roll dough creates a flaky, golden crust on top, while the layers inside bake into a soft, hearty filling. The Swiss cheese melts into the dish, adding creaminess and depth, while the sauerkraut retains a bit of crunch, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese.
Simple and Quick: The Reuben casserole isn’t just easy to make—it’s also quick. Instead of spending time making sandwiches individually, you layer everything in a baking dish and let the oven do the work. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Versatility: While the traditional Reuben casserole sticks closely to the classic sandwich ingredients, it can easily be customized. You can experiment with different types of cheese, try a spicier dressing, or add other ingredients like pickles or onions. For those with dietary restrictions, there are even options for making a gluten-free or vegetarian version of this dish. For ideas on how to customize your casserole, check out this Pinterest board for Casserole Dishes.

By reimagining the Reuben sandwich as a casserole, you open up a world of possibilities while still enjoying all the flavors you love. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a family gathering, the Reuben bake is sure to be a hit.

Essential Ingredients for the Reuben Bake

Creating the perfect Reuben bake requires just a handful of ingredients that bring together the bold flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich. Here’s a breakdown of the key components that make this casserole irresistible.

Corned Beef

Corned beef is the star of the show in this recipe. Its tender texture and savory flavor provide the foundation of the dish. The saltiness of the corned beef pairs perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut and the richness of the Swiss cheese. While traditional corned beef is typically served in a sandwich, using it in a casserole gives it the chance to really shine as the main ingredient. For the best results, use sliced corned beef from the deli, or opt for freshly cooked and sliced corned beef. If you want to learn more about corned beef and its preparation, this Corned Beef article on Wikipedia offers a detailed look at this flavorful cut of meat.

Sauerkraut

No Reuben is complete without sauerkraut. This fermented cabbage adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor that balances the richness of the corned beef and Swiss cheese. In the Reuben bake, it provides a delightful texture and a bit of bite. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well before using it in the casserole. This prevents the dish from becoming too soggy, ensuring that the texture stays crisp and appetizing. For more on how sauerkraut is made and its health benefits, check out the Sauerkraut Wikipedia page.

Swiss Cheese

The Swiss cheese is another essential ingredient that ties the casserole together. Its nutty, mildly sweet flavor and excellent melting properties make it the perfect cheese for a Reuben bake. Shredded or sliced Swiss cheese will melt beautifully, creating a gooey, comforting texture. If you’re looking for a more robust flavor, you can also experiment with other cheeses, like Gruyère or even cheddar, although these may alter the classic flavor profile.

Thousand Island Dressing

The creamy, tangy flavor of Thousand Island dressing is what gives the casserole that signature Reuben flavor. The dressing acts as a binding agent between the layers of meat, cheese, and sauerkraut, adding moisture and a slight sweetness. It’s an essential ingredient that brings the dish together. If you’re trying to avoid store-bought dressings, homemade Thousand Island dressing is a great alternative and can add a personal touch to your casserole. For a deeper dive into the dressing’s origins, refer to the Thousand Island Dressing Wikipedia article.

Crescent Roll Dough

The base of the Reuben bake is made from crescent roll dough, which forms a golden, flaky crust. The dough is easy to work with and bakes up perfectly in the oven. When using crescent roll dough, it’s important to seal the seams of the dough to prevent the filling from leaking out. If you can’t find crescent roll dough, you can substitute with other types of dough, like puff pastry or pizza dough, but crescent rolls are the most convenient and flavorful option. For more information on this dough type, check out the Crescent Roll Wikipedia page.

Egg White and Caraway Seeds (Optional)

To add a beautiful golden finish to the top of the casserole, brush it with a beaten egg white before baking. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely shine and ensures the dough has a crisp, appetizing texture. If you like the classic Reuben flavor even more, sprinkle a few caraway seeds on top of the dough before baking. These seeds bring a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the rest of the ingredients. Caraway seeds are often used in rye bread, which is the traditional bread for a Reuben sandwich. For more on caraway seeds, visit the Caraway Wikipedia page.

Together, these ingredients form the perfect balance of flavor and texture in the Reuben bake. Each component plays a crucial role in making the casserole a true Reuben experience, but with a deliciously convenient twist.

By mastering these essential ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Reuben bake that will become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s go through the simple steps to make this delicious Reuben bake. The process is easy and requires minimal prep, making it perfect for a quick and comforting meal.

Prepping the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and reaches the perfect golden-brown color.
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use non-stick spray or butter. This helps prevent the dough from sticking to the pan and ensures easy cleanup.

Assembling the Layers

First layer of crescent dough:
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Use your fingers to pinch the seams together, making sure the dough covers the bottom completely. This forms the base of your casserole.
Spread the dressing:
Evenly spread 1/2 cup of Thousand Island dressing over the dough. This will act as a flavorful base for the meat and vegetables.
Add the corned beef:
Layer 1 pound of sliced corned beef over the dressing. Ensure that it’s spread evenly to cover the surface, so every bite has a good amount of meat.
Add sauerkraut:
Take 1 cup of sauerkraut, making sure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture. Spread the sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef. This adds that essential tangy flavor that complements the richness of the meat.
Top with Swiss cheese:
Sprinkle or layer 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking and bring everything together.
Second layer of dough:
Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the top of the layers, covering the casserole. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the layers. This step ensures that the casserole holds together when you slice and serve it.

Finishing Touches and Baking

Brush with egg white:
For a shiny, golden crust, brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg white. This step is optional, but it makes the casserole look more appetizing and helps it crisp up perfectly.
Optional caraway seeds:
If you like the flavor of caraway, you can sprinkle some seeds over the top of the dough. This adds a subtle, earthy note to the finished casserole.
Bake the casserole:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Keep an eye on it toward the end to make sure it doesn’t over-brown.

Serving and Enjoying

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing it. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Slice into squares and enjoy your Reuben bake. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a side salad, chips, or even a small bowl of soup.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Reuben Bake

To make sure your Reuben bake is always a success, here are a few helpful tips:

Avoid a soggy casserole: Make sure the sauerkraut is thoroughly drained before adding it to the dish. Too much moisture can make the casserole soggy.
Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it before serving. It can also be frozen for later use—just make sure to bake it all the way through when reheating.
Customizations: Feel free to experiment with the ingredients. You can use rye bread crumbs for an extra dose of authenticity, or switch out the Swiss cheese for Gruyère or a sharper cheddar if you want a bolder flavor.
Reheat leftovers: The casserole reheats well. You can warm individual servings in the microwave or bake the entire casserole in the oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this Reuben bake ahead of time?

Yes! This Reuben bake can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it as instructed. You may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use a different kind of meat in the Reuben bake?

Absolutely! While corned beef is traditional, you can easily substitute it with other meats. Turkey corned beef or pastrami will work well as alternatives. For a vegetarian Reuben bake, you can swap in tempeh or tofu, both of which can be marinated to mimic the flavors of corned beef.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Reuben bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warm. To prevent the crust from getting soggy, you can reheat it uncovered in the oven.

What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?

If you don’t have crescent roll dough, you can substitute it with puff pastry, pizza dough, or even a homemade pie crust. Each of these alternatives will yield a different texture, but they’ll all help form a delicious base for the casserole.

Can I freeze this Reuben bake?

Yes, you can freeze the Reuben bake either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours, and then bake as instructed. If you’ve already baked the casserole, you can freeze individual portions for easy reheating later.

How can I make this recipe less fatty or lower in calories?

To make the Reuben bake lower in calories, you can substitute the crescent roll dough with a lower-fat alternative or use reduced-fat Swiss cheese. You can also use leaner cuts of corned beef or opt for turkey corned beef to reduce the fat conte

The Ultimate Reuben Bake: A Savory and Comforting Casserole

Print Recipe

The Ultimate Reuben Bake is a savory, comforting casserole that brings together the delicious flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in an easy-to-make dish. With layers of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all nestled between flaky crescent roll dough, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s quick to prepare and offers all the bold, satisfying flavors of a traditional Reuben without the fuss of individual sandwiches. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to please!

Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale

2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
1 lb sliced corned beef
1 cup sauerkraut, well drained
8 oz (about 2 cups) shredded or sliced Swiss cheese
1 egg white, beaten
Caraway seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the dish to form a crust. Pinch seams together to seal.

Spread the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the dough.

Layer the corned beef slices over the dressing.

Evenly spread the drained sauerkraut on top of the beef.

Sprinkle or lay the Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut.

Unroll the second can of dough and place it over the top, sealing the edges. Pinch seams together.

Brush the top with beaten egg white and sprinkle with caraway seeds if desired.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For the best results, make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Customize the Reuben bake by swapping out the Swiss cheese for a sharper variety, or even adding some pickles for extra tang.
This dish is perfect for make-ahead meals. Assemble it a day or two in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
You can easily freeze this casserole for future meals. Just make sure to follow the proper steps for thawing and reheating.