Classic Reuben Bake with Corned Beef, Sauerkraut & Swiss

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This Classic Reuben Bake with Corned Beef, Sauerkraut & Swiss is the ultimate comfort food twist on a beloved deli sandwich. With buttery layers of rye bread, tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, and gooey Swiss cheese, it bakes into a bubbly, golden casserole that hits every flavor note. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a potluck favorite, this dish brings the essence of a Reuben sandwich to your table in a heartwarming, oven-baked form.

The bake is creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying with just the right amount of crunch from the bread edges. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend brunches. If you’re a fan of bold flavors with minimal effort, this one needs a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Reuben Bake

The beauty of this dish is how effortlessly it transforms simple ingredients into something crave-worthy. The corned beef adds a deep, meaty richness that balances beautifully with the tangy sauerkraut. The Swiss cheese melts into the crevices and pulls everything together in one savory, melty bite. And let’s not forget the Thousand Island dressing, which ties the whole dish together with creamy, sweet sharpness.

This bake is also great for entertaining. You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when ready. Plus, it turns out perfect every time — crisp on top, tender in the middle, and packed with nostalgic deli flavors.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

Rye bread is the traditional and best option for a true Reuben experience. It has a subtle earthiness that holds up well to baking and pairs wonderfully with the strong flavors of sauerkraut and corned beef. However, if you’re not a fan of rye, marble rye or even pumpernickel will do nicely. You want a bread that’s sturdy enough to soak up the dressing and cheese without turning soggy.

Ingredients for the Classic Reuben Bake with Corned Beef, Sauerkraut & Swiss

Every element in this bake brings something special. The layers build flavor, texture, and that signature tangy-meets-savory taste we all love in a Reuben. Here’s what you need to bring this classic comfort dish together:

• Rye Bread
• Corned Beef
• Swiss Cheese
• Sauerkraut
• Thousand Island Dressing
• Eggs
• Milk
• Butter

You need rye bread as the base because it delivers that classic Reuben flavor and holds its structure well. Corned beef adds that unmistakable hearty bite, best if sliced thin and layered generously. Swiss cheese melts into creamy goodness while adding nuttiness. Sauerkraut offers tang and texture, balancing out the richness. Thousand Island dressing is essential for that creamy, sweet and tangy lift. A mixture of eggs and milk helps bind the bake, turning it into a tender casserole rather than just layered sandwiches. A bit of butter gives the top that crisp golden finish.

How To Make the Classic Reuben Bake with Corned Beef, Sauerkraut & Swiss

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Place half of the rye bread slices on the bottom of the dish. Layer with half the corned beef, then half the sauerkraut, and half the Swiss cheese. Repeat the layers one more time in the same order.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Thousand Island dressing until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the layers in the dish, allowing it to soak through.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes to allow the liquid to absorb slightly. This helps everything bind together better when baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The cheese should be melted and slightly crisp on top.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the bake rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting. This helps it hold its shape when serving and keeps the layers intact.

How to Serve and Store Classic Reuben Bake with Corned Beef, Sauerkraut & Swiss

This hearty bake is best served hot and fresh from the oven when the cheese is melty and the bread edges are deliciously crisp. Slice into squares and serve with a dollop of extra Thousand Island dressing or a side of pickles to play up the deli flavors.

This recipe comfortably feeds 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a weekend brunch with friends.

To store leftovers, let the bake cool completely. Then cover tightly with foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the oven helps bring back that crisp top.

What to Serve With Reuben Bake?

Classic Dill Pickles

Nothing beats the crunch and tang of a dill pickle to contrast the creamy richness of the bake.

Creamy Potato Salad

A cool, creamy potato salad makes a great pairing that complements without overpowering.

Roasted Baby Carrots

Add a pop of color and sweetness to your plate with tender roasted baby carrots tossed in olive oil.

Apple Slaw

This crisp and refreshing slaw brings brightness and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory bake.

Garlic Green Beans

A simple side of sautéed green beans with garlic keeps things light and adds a nice snap.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

For a fresh bite, this juicy and tangy salad is a bright counterpoint to the cheesy richness.

Crispy Oven Fries

Give it the diner treatment with oven-baked fries and maybe a side of ketchup or mustard for dipping.

Chilled Beer or Iced Tea

Whether you’re craving a crisp lager or a glass of sweet tea, both drinks round out the comforting meal perfectly.

Want More Bake Ideas with a Savory Twist?

If you loved this Classic Reuben Bake, here are some other crave-worthy savory bakes to explore:

• Try the rich and cheesy Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for another deli-style comfort dish.

• The hearty and meaty Creamy Beef and Shells is perfect when you want a cozy pasta bake with familiar flavors.

• Dive into a gooey, bubbling Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce that’s easy to prep and satisfying for any night.

• For a veggie-packed option, check out the Mushroom Mozzarella Bake that’s hearty enough to stand alone as a main.

• Or, go all in with the decadent Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for another oven-ready favorite.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use pastrami instead of corned beef? Did you go extra cheesy on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other make dinner more delicious.

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