Delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Recipe

Indulge in the comforting layers of flavors with this delightful Layered Reuben Casserole Bake. If you’re a fan of the classic deli sandwich, you’re in for a treat with this cheesy and savory family-style meal. Perfect for cold days when you need a hearty dish or for festive gatherings, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

One of the highlights of this recipe is how the rye bread soaks up all the tangy dressing and savory juices, creating a buttery custardy center that will keep you coming back for more. With pastrami or corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a touch of caraway seeds, each layer adds a unique flavor that blends harmoniously in every bite. Whether you’re a picky eater or a food enthusiast, this casserole is bound to impress.

So, gather your ingredients, layer them generously, and let the oven work its magic. Don’t forget to save some for leftovers – this casserole tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this Layered Reuben Casserole Bake is a delicious way to bring the flavors of a deli sandwich to your table with a twist.

Quick Benefits

• Comfort food magic with classic deli sandwich flavors baked into a cheesy family-style meal
• Rye bread soaks up tangy dressing and savory juices, creating a buttery custardy center
• Versatile recipe with options for ingredient swaps to suit preferences and seasonal variations
• Easy to make ahead and freeze for busy days, potlucks, or as a homemade comfort meal

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Comfort Food Magic: This recipe offers the classic deli sandwich flavors baked into a cheesy, family-style meal, perfect for comforting and hearty meals on cold days.
• Layered Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of each layer, from the tangy dressing-soaked rye bread to the savory pastrami or corned beef, sauerkraut, pickles, Swiss cheese, and more.
• Versatile Substitutions: You can easily customize this dish with variations like marble or pumpernickel bread, turkey or roast beef, Gruyere or provolone cheese, or coleslaw instead of sauerkraut to suit your preferences.
• Leftover Friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days and reheat for crispy tops. You can also freeze unbaked portions for busy days or as a thoughtful gift for new parents.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether as a casual brunch dish, potluck contribution, or holiday meal, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly, leaving everyone craving more.
• Year-Round Enjoyment: Embrace seasonal variations by switching sauerkraut for cabbage in summer, adding fresh sliced tomatoes, or garnishing with chives or dill, offering fresh flavors to complement the hearty dish.
• Historical Twist: This American twist on the Reuben sandwich tradition brings together Jewish and Irish influences in a comforting casserole, making it a delightful celebration of cultural fusion and culinary creativity.

Ingredients for Delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Recipe

Base

• 6 slices rye bread, divided

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 cup chopped dill pickles
• 1 can sauerkraut, drained
• 1 pound pastrami or corned beef, thinly sliced, divided

Dairy

• 4 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons caraway seeds, divided

Custard

• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 1 cup milk
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1/3 cup creamy dressing

Pro Tips for Delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Recipe

Pro Tips:

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors, make sure to thoroughly drain the sauerkraut to prevent excess moisture in the casserole. This will help maintain the layers’ integrity and prevent a soggy bake.

For a delicious twist, consider using Russian or Thousand Island dressing instead of yellow mustard for a tangy and creamy touch that complements the savory ingredients in the casserole beautifully.

When reheating leftovers, opt for the oven or toaster oven to help recrisp the top layer for that delightful crunch. This method ensures that each bite tastes just as delicious as when it was freshly baked.

How to Make Delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preparation and Equipment Setup

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease an 11×7-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare Rye Bread Base and Breadcrumbs

Cut 4 slices of rye bread into 2-inch cubes and place them in the baking dish. Pulse the remaining 2 slices of rye bread to make breadcrumbs for later use.

Step 3: First Layer of Meat and Vegetables

Evenly layer half of the pastrami or corned beef over the bread cubes. Add drained sauerkraut and chopped dill pickles on top.

Step 4: Season and Add Cheese

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds over the mixture, then evenly layer 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese.

Step 5: Second Layer of Meat and Cheese

Arrange the rest of the pastrami or corned beef over the cheese, pressing gently. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of Swiss cheese and 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds on top.

Step 6: Mix and Pour Custard

Combine milk, beaten eggs, creamy dressing, and yellow mustard in a bowl. Pour mixture evenly over the casserole to saturate the layers.

Step 7: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the rye breadcrumbs over the top of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Allow to rest for 5 minutes after removing from oven before slicing. Serve warm.

Storage Tips

After enjoying the delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Bake, store any leftovers by tightly covering the dish and placing it in the refrigerator. The casserole can be stored this way for up to four days. To reheat individual portions, it is recommended to use the oven or toaster oven to help the top get crispy again and preserve the texture of the dish.

If you want to freeze the casserole for later consumption, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it well in both plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, defrost the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it at 350 degrees until it is hot all the way through. This method of freezing and reheating ensures that the flavors and textures of the casserole are preserved for a tasty meal at a later time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find rye bread, you can substitute it with marble or pumpernickel bread to still capture that hearty flavor. For a lighter variation, turkey or roast beef can be used instead of pastrami or corned beef. Similarly, if Swiss cheese is not available, Gruyere or provolone can be great melty alternatives for the casserole.

If your family prefers milder flavors, consider swapping sauerkraut with coleslaw. Additionally, try experimenting with different dressings like Russian or Thousand Island for a unique tangy and creamy touch. To lighten up the dish in summer, you can replace sauerkraut with crisp sliced cabbage, add fresh sliced tomatoes before baking, or sprinkle chopped chives or fresh dill over the baked casserole for a springy flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning this Layered Reuben Casserole Bake into individual Reuben Casserole Cups by layering the ingredients in muffin tins. This way, each person gets their own perfectly portioned serving, complete with all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich. Serve with a side of creamy dressing or mustard for dipping.

To add a fun twist to this dish, consider serving the Layered Reuben Casserole Bake in a bread bowl. Hollow out a round loaf of rye bread, layer the casserole ingredients inside, and bake until golden and bubbly. This not only makes for a stunning presentation but also allows guests to enjoy the casserole along with the delicious, crispy bread bowl. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

FAQs for Delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Recipe

Can I use either pastrami or corned beef for this casserole?

Yes, both pastrami and corned beef work well, lending classic deli flavors to the casserole.

Should I thoroughly drain the sauerkraut for this recipe?

Yes, drain sauerkraut thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the bake.

What are some alternative dressings I can use besides creamy dressing and yellow mustard?

Russian or Thousand Island dressing both pair well and add a tangy, creamy touch.

How should I reheat leftovers of this casserole?

Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through; the flavors meld even more.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Layered Reuben Casserole Bake a try soon. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, perfect for cozy family dinners or friendly gatherings. The layers of flavors and textures will surely make it a hit with your loved ones.

Experiment with different variations to suit your preferences, whether it’s swapping out ingredients or adding seasonal twists. This casserole is versatile and forgiving, making it a great go-to recipe for any occasion. Embrace the spirit of sharing comfort food with those around you and let the delicious aroma fill your home. Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious Layered Reuben Casserole Bake!