Ingredients
Bread Mixture
- 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
Layers
- 1 pound deli corned beef, coarsely chopped
- 14.5 ounces sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups Thousand Island dressing
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the Bread Cubes: In a large bowl, combine the rye bread cubes with melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir until the bread is fully coated with the seasonings.
- Layer the First Bread Base: Spread half of the seasoned bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
- Add Corned Beef Layer: Evenly scatter half of the chopped corned beef over the bread layer to distribute the savory meat.
- Spread Sauerkraut: Spoon half of the drained and rinsed sauerkraut over the corned beef, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Thousand Island Dressing: Pour ¾ cup of the Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut layer and smooth it out with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Add Swiss Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the dressing to add a creamy, melty layer.
- Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining bread cubes, corned beef, sauerkraut, ¾ cup Thousand Island dressing, and finish with the last 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered and Brown: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to let it set. Enjoy your comforting Reuben Casserole!
Notes
- For best results, use light rye bread for authentic flavor.
- Rinsing the sauerkraut reduces excess saltiness and tanginess.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
- This dish can be made ahead through step 8 and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
- For a vegetarian version, omit corned beef and add sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American