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Classic Reuben Bake

A cozy and comforting casserole featuring melted Swiss, tangy sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound deli corned beef, roughly chopped or shredded Corned beef from the deli is faster and deliciously authentic.
  • 8–10 slices rye bread (or 6 cups rye bread cubes) If rye bread is hard to find, use a sturdy artisan bread.
  • 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
  • 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and lightly squeezed If it seems extra wet, drain then pat with paper towels.
  • 1 1/2 cups Thousand Island or Russian dressing Use extra for serving.
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk Or use 3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup sour cream for richness.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Optional, but lovely.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds or sesame seeds Optional topping.
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cut rye bread into 1-inch cubes. If fresh, dry cubed bread on a baking sheet for 10 minutes in the oven.
Layering
  1. Spread half the bread cubes across the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the corned beef over the bread. Scatter half the sauerkraut and 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese on top.
  2. Drizzle half of the Thousand Island dressing across the first layer.
  3. Add the remaining bread cubes, corned beef, sauerkraut, and another cup of Swiss. Press layers gently.
Custard Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, Dijon, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Pour the custard evenly over the casserole, pressing lightly to absorb.
Baking
  1. Let the dish sit for 10–15 minutes before baking. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and set. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
Serving
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra Thousand Island dressing and a green salad.

Notes

Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate overnight. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time. For variations, replace corned beef with mushrooms and tempeh bacon or use a mix of corned beef and pastrami.