Reuben casserole is a classic dish that is sure to satisfy any appetite. This hearty casserole is made with layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. It is a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich and is perfect for any occasion.
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are somewhat disputed, but it is widely believed to have been created in the early 1900s by a deli owner in Omaha, Nebraska. The sandwich quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in many restaurants across the United States. The Reuben casserole is a variation of the sandwich that is easy to make and can feed a crowd. It is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any time you want a comforting and filling meal.
Reuben Casserole Origins
Reuben casserole is a dish that is inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich. The sandwich was first created in the United States in the early 1900s, and it quickly became a popular item on menus across the country. The Reuben sandwich is typically made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, all served on rye bread.
The origins of the Reuben casserole are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been created as a way to enjoy the flavors of the Reuben sandwich in a different format. The casserole typically includes all of the same ingredients as the sandwich, but it is baked in a dish rather than served between two slices of bread.
One of the benefits of the Reuben casserole is that it is a great way to use up leftover corned beef. The dish can be made with either fresh or leftover corned beef, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Overall, the Reuben casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich. Whether you are looking for a new way to enjoy your leftover corned beef or simply want to try something new, the Reuben casserole is definitely worth a try.
Essential Ingredients
To make a delicious Reuben Casserole, there are a few essential ingredients that must be included. These ingredients are what give the casserole its unique flavor and texture.
Corned Beef
Corned beef is the star of the Reuben Casserole. It is a cut of beef that has been cured in a brine solution. The brine solution typically contains salt, sugar, and spices. Corned beef is tender and flavorful and is a key ingredient in the Reuben sandwich.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a type of fermented cabbage that is tangy and slightly sour. It is a traditional ingredient in the Reuben sandwich and adds a distinctive flavor to the casserole.
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is a semi-hard cheese that is mild and nutty in flavor. It melts well and is a perfect addition to the Reuben Casserole. It is often used in the Reuben sandwich and is a must-have ingredient in the casserole.
Thousand Island Dressing
Thousand Island dressing is a creamy, tangy dressing that is made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish. It is a popular condiment for the Reuben sandwich and is an essential ingredient in the casserole.
Rye Bread
Rye bread is a type of bread that is made with rye flour. It has a dense texture and a slightly sour flavor. Rye bread is a traditional bread for the Reuben sandwich and is used in the casserole to add texture and flavor.
By including these essential ingredients, you can create a delicious Reuben Casserole that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Necessary Cookware and Utensils
To prepare a delicious Reuben Casserole, one needs to have the right cookware and utensils. Here are the necessary tools required to make this dish.
Cookware
- Casserole Dish: A deep 9×13 inch casserole dish is needed to bake the Reuben Casserole. A glass or ceramic dish is recommended as it distributes heat evenly and prevents the dish from sticking to the bottom.
- Skillet: A large skillet is required to cook the corned beef, sauerkraut, and onions. A non-stick skillet is preferred to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
Utensils
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is needed to combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, and other ingredients.
- Spatula: A spatula is required to flip the corned beef and onions in the skillet.
- Cooking Spoon: A cooking spoon is needed to mix the ingredients in the mixing bowl.
- Knife: A sharp knife is required to slice the corned beef and onions.
- Cutting Board: A cutting board is needed to chop the onions and slice the corned beef.
- Oven Mitts: Oven mitts are required to safely remove the hot casserole dish from the oven.
By having these basic cookware and utensils, one can easily prepare a delicious Reuben Casserole at home.
Preparation Steps
Preparing a Reuben casserole is a simple and straightforward process that can be completed in a few easy steps. Here are the preparation steps to make a delicious Reuben casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Layer the bottom of the baking dish with 6 slices of rye bread, trimming the edges to fit if necessary.
- Spread 1/2 cup of Thousand Island dressing over the bread slices.
- Top the dressing with 1 pound of thinly sliced corned beef.
- Add 1 pound of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese over the sauerkraut.
- Repeat the layers of bread, dressing, corned beef, sauerkraut and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
By following these simple preparation steps, anyone can make a delicious Reuben casserole that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Layering the Casserole
When making a Reuben casserole, layering the ingredients is key to achieving a delicious and well-balanced dish. Here are the steps to layering the casserole:
Sauerkraut Layer
The first layer of the Reuben casserole is the sauerkraut layer. Spread a layer of sauerkraut evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well before using it in the casserole.
Corned Beef Layer
The second layer of the Reuben casserole is the corned beef layer. Spread a layer of corned beef on top of the sauerkraut layer. Use thinly sliced corned beef for best results.
Cheese Layer
The third layer of the Reuben casserole is the cheese layer. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the corned beef layer.
Dressing Layer
The fourth layer of the Reuben casserole is the dressing layer. Spread Thousand Island dressing evenly over the cheese layer.
Breadcrumb Topping
The final layer of the Reuben casserole is the breadcrumb topping. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the dressing layer. This will create a crispy and flavorful topping for the casserole.
Once all the layers are added, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes at 350°F. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!
Baking Instructions
To bake the Reuben Casserole, preheat the oven to 375°F. Then, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This will help the casserole cook more evenly.
Next, cover the casserole with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to cut and serve.
It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your casserole. To ensure that your Reuben Casserole is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Reuben casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions to help you get the most out of your casserole:
- As a Main Course: Serve the Reuben casserole as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. The casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but the addition of a side dish can help balance out the flavors.
- As a Party Appetizer: Cut the casserole into small squares and serve as an appetizer at your next party. The flavors of the Reuben casserole are perfect for entertaining, and the small size makes it easy for guests to enjoy.
- On a Sandwich: Use the Reuben casserole as a filling for a sandwich. Simply slice the casserole and place it between two slices of bread with some Thousand Island dressing. This is a great way to use up any leftovers from the casserole.
- With Eggs: Serve the Reuben casserole with a fried egg on top for a delicious breakfast or brunch. The combination of the corned beef, sauerkraut, and egg is a classic breakfast flavor that is sure to please.
No matter how you choose to serve it, the Reuben casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Nutritional Information
Reuben casserole is a delicious and filling dish that can be enjoyed by many. However, it is important to be aware of its nutritional value in order to make informed decisions about its consumption.
One serving of Reuben casserole (approximately 1 cup) contains about 350 calories, 25 grams of fat, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of protein. It also contains 1,200 milligrams of sodium, which is high and should be taken into consideration for those who are watching their sodium intake.
The fat in Reuben casserole comes from a variety of sources, including cream cheese, Swiss cheese, and corned beef. While these ingredients may be high in fat, they also provide important nutrients such as calcium and protein. However, it is important to consume them in moderation as excessive amounts of saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease.
The carbohydrates in Reuben casserole come from the bread and sauerkraut. While bread is a good source of carbohydrates, it is important to choose whole grain bread for added fiber and nutrients. Sauerkraut is also a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
In conclusion, Reuben casserole can be a tasty and satisfying dish, but it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sodium and fat content. It is important to choose whole grain bread and to balance the dish with other healthy foods to ensure a well-rounded diet.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Alternatives
For those who prefer vegetarian options, there are several substitutes that can be used in place of the traditional corned beef. One option is to use sliced portobello mushrooms, which have a meaty texture and can be marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke to give them a savory flavor. Another option is to use tempeh, which is a fermented soybean product that can be sliced and marinated in a similar way to the mushrooms.
To make the Reuben casserole completely vegetarian, you can also substitute the Swiss cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative, such as vegan cheddar or mozzarella. Additionally, you can use a vegan mayonnaise and sour cream in the dressing to make it dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Options
For those who need to avoid gluten, there are a few substitutions that can be made to the traditional Reuben casserole recipe. Instead of using rye bread, you can use a gluten-free bread or even gluten-free crackers as a base for the casserole. You can also use a gluten-free flour to make the roux for the dressing.
Another option is to skip the bread altogether and make a crustless version of the casserole. Simply layer the sauerkraut, corned beef (or vegetarian substitute), dressing, and cheese in a baking dish and bake as usual.
Overall, there are several variations and substitutions that can be made to the classic Reuben casserole recipe to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone can enjoy.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing meals in advance can save a lot of time and effort, especially during busy weekdays. The Reuben Casserole is an excellent dish to make ahead of time and store for later use. Here are some tips to make the most out of your Reuben Casserole:
- Make-Ahead: The Reuben Casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This will allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious dish.
- Storage: Leftover Reuben Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’s best to store the casserole in individual portions, so you can reheat only what you need.
- Reheating: To reheat the Reuben Casserole, preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil and cover the casserole with a sheet of foil. This will prevent the top from burning while reheating. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
- Freezing: The Reuben Casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. Label the casserole with the date and freeze. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the reheating instructions above.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious Reuben Casserole any day of the week, without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Reuben Casserole, there are a few common mistakes that can be easily avoided. Here are some tips to help you make a delicious Reuben Casserole without any issues.
Using the Wrong Bread
One of the most common mistakes people make when making a Reuben Casserole is using the wrong type of bread. It’s important to use a sturdy bread that can hold up to the moisture of the sauerkraut and dressing. Rye bread is the traditional choice, but any bread with a similar texture and thickness will work.
Not Draining the Sauerkraut
Another mistake people make is not draining the sauerkraut before adding it to the casserole. The excess liquid from the sauerkraut can make the casserole soggy and unappetizing. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well before adding it to the casserole.
Overcooking the Corned Beef
Corned beef is a key ingredient in a Reuben Casserole, but overcooking it can lead to tough, dry meat. It’s important to cook the corned beef just until it’s tender, and then slice it thinly before adding it to the casserole.
Using Too Much Dressing
While it’s tempting to add extra Thousand Island dressing to a Reuben Casserole, too much can make the casserole overly rich and heavy. Use just enough dressing to coat the ingredients evenly, and save any extra for dipping.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make a delicious Reuben Casserole that will impress your friends and family.
Pairing with Sides and Drinks
Reuben casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Sides
- Potato Salad: The creaminess of potato salad complements the tanginess of the Reuben casserole. It’s also a classic side dish that’s easy to prepare.
- Cole Slaw: Another creamy side dish that balances the flavors of the casserole. Plus, the crunchiness of the cabbage adds a nice texture contrast.
- Green Beans: A simple steamed or roasted green bean dish provides a healthy and refreshing addition to the meal. It also helps cut through the richness of the casserole.
Drinks
- Beer: A cold beer pairs well with the savory flavors of the Reuben casserole. A light lager or pilsner would be a good choice, but feel free to experiment with different styles.
- Wine: For those who prefer wine, a dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would complement the dish nicely. A light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir would also work.
- Iced Tea: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, iced tea is a refreshing choice. The sweetness of the tea balances the acidity of the casserole.
Remember, these are just suggestions. Feel free to mix and match sides and drinks to find your perfect pairing.