Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef, Sauerkraut, and Swiss Cheese

I absolutely cannot wait to share this Reuben Bake recipe with you! Imagine all those classic deli flavors—tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese—stacked up in a cozy, baked casserole that’s crispy on top and melty inside. This dish is a total game-changer for anyone who loves a good Reuben sandwich but sometimes wants to skip the assembly line and just dive straight into a hearty, comforting meal. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead. Stick with me here, because once you try this, your usual sandwich routine is going to be seriously jealous!

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced or chopped
• 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 8 slices rye bread, crust removed and cubed
• 1 cup Thousand Island dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

For the Sauce / Garnish (if applicable):

• Extra Thousand Island dressing for serving (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How I Make It

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. The first step is to prepare your bread cubes—toss them with melted butter to ensure they toast up beautifully and add a rich flavor. Set them aside while you drain and squeeze as much moisture as you can out of your sauerkraut; this helps prevent sogginess.

Step 2:

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the buttered bread cubes evenly across the bottom. This layer forms the perfect crunchy base for our bake.

Step 3:

Now layer on half of the corned beef, followed by half of the sauerkraut, and then half of the shredded Swiss cheese. Dollop half of the Thousand Island dressing across the layers to keep things moist and flavorful.

Step 4:

Repeat with the remaining bread cubes, corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese. Finish with the last of the dressing spread on top. This layering is what gives your bake all that amazing texture and flavor contrast.

Step 5:

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to let the top get golden and bubbly.

Step 6:

Once it’s out of the oven, let the bake rest for about 5 minutes—this helps everything set so it slices easier. Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top if you want a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Variations & Tips

• Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
• Use pumpernickel or whole wheat bread to change up the flavor and texture.
• If you want it extra tangy, mix a little horseradish into the Thousand Island dressing.
• Try adding caramelized onions for a sweet, savory layer.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread cubes or skip the bread entirely and add extra cheese for a crust.
• Leftovers reheat great in the oven or microwave—just go easy on the heat to keep it from drying out.

How I Like to Serve It

This Reuben Bake is perfect for casual family dinners or when friends come over for game day. Pair it with a simple green salad or some kettle-cooked chips for crunch. It also makes an excellent St. Patrick’s Day centerpiece, served alongside a cold beer or a crisp cider. For a cozy weekend lunch, add a bowl of tomato soup on the side and enjoy every bite.

Notes

• Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F to keep from drying out.

Closing: This Reuben Bake always feels like a warm hug from the inside out, thanks to its layers of melty cheese and tangy sauerkraut that just never fail to satisfy.