Name: Reuben Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini; 4 cups cabbage; 1 cup Sauerkraut; 8 oz corned beef; 1 tbsp butter; 1 small onion; For Sauce:; 4 tbsp butter; 4 tbsp flour; 1¼ cup milk; 1½ cup chicken broth; 1½ tbsp dijon mustard; ¾ tsp Worcestershire sauce; ¾ tsp pepper; 2 cups swiss cheese; For Topping:; ¼ cup Panko Breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp parmesan cheese; ½ tsp parsley

Experience the rich, savory flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in a hearty, comforting casserole. This Reuben Casserole recipe is perfect for those who adore the tang of sauerkraut, the tender bite of corned beef, and the creamy indulgence of Swiss cheese, all baked to perfection in an easy-to-make dish.

Photos of Reuben Casserole Recipe

While many ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge, a few may require a special trip. Corned beef, a type of salt-cured beef product, and sauerkraut, fermented cabbage, can be found in the deli and canned goods sections respectively. Swiss cheese, known for its distinctive holes and mild flavor, is usually available in the dairy section. Rotini, a spiral-shaped pasta, can be found in the pasta aisle.

Ingredients for Reuben Casserole

Rotini: This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto sauces well, providing a burst of flavor with each bite.

Cabbage: Adds a crunchy texture and a mildly sweet flavor to the dish.

Sauerkraut: Gives the dish its iconic tangy flavor.

Corned beef: This salt-cured beef adds a savory depth to the dish.

Butter: Used to sauté and create a creamy sauce.

Onion: Provides a sweet and tangy flavor.

Flour: Helps thicken the sauce.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.

Chicken broth: Enhances the savory flavor of the sauce.

Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy and spicy flavor.

Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory, umami flavor.

Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a mild and nutty flavor.

Panko breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy texture to the top of the casserole.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the topping.

Parsley: Used for garnish and adds a hint of fresh flavor.

One reader, Laureen Montanez says:

I recently tried the Reuben casserole recipe and it was a hit! The flavors were amazing and it was so easy to make. The creamy sauce and the combination of corned beef and sauerkraut were just perfect. It's definitely going to be a regular in my dinner rotation!

Laureen Montanez

Techniques Required for Making Reuben Casserole

How to cook the rotini and cabbage: Boil the rotini according to package directions, adding the cabbage during the last 5 minutes of cook time. Drain and set aside.

How to make the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, and gradually add the chicken broth and milk while whisking. Add the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, and continue whisking over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.

How to assemble the casserole: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cabbage, sauerkraut, and the corned beef and onion mixture. Add the prepared sauce and mix well.

How to make the topping: Combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley, and sprinkle over the assembled casserole before baking.

How to bake the casserole: Bake the assembled casserole uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes at 375 degrees F, or until hot and bubbly.

How to serve: Serve the Reuben casserole warm and enjoy!

How To Make Reuben Casserole

You’ll never get enough of this reuben casserole made with fresh cabbage, pasta, corned beef, and sauerkraut, all mixed in a flavorful swiss cheese sauce!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozrotini,dry
4cupscabbage,squeezed, chopped
1cupsauerkraut,squeezed, chopped
8ozcorned beef,(about 2 cups), diced
1tbspbutter
1small onion,(about 1 cup)

For Sauce:

4tbspbutter
4tbspflour
1¼cupmilk
1½cupchicken broth,low sodium
1½tbspdijon mustard
¾tspWorcestershire sauce
¾tsppepper
2cupsswiss cheese

For Topping:

¼cuppanko breadcrumbs
1tbspbutter,melted
1tbspParmesan cheese
½tspparsley

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Cook the rotini for about 9 minutes, according to package directions. Add the cabbage during the last 5 minutes of cook time. Drain and set aside.
Heat the 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the corned beef and onion, and cook until the onion for about 5 minutes is tender. Set aside.

Sauce:

Melt the 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk a little bit at a time while whisking.
Add the dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Continue whisking over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.
Remove from heat and stir in the swiss cheese until melted.

To Assemble:

In a large bowl, combine the pasta and cabbage mixture, sauerkraut, and the corned beef and onion mixture. Add the sauce and mix well.
Spread into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Combine all the topping ingredients and sprinkle over the pasta.
Bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 501.33kcal
Fat: 25.04g
Saturated Fat: 13.88g
Trans Fat: 0.35g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.49g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.27g
Carbohydrates: 45.94g
Fiber: 3.49g
Sugar: 6.49g
Protein: 22.98g
Cholesterol: 74.52mg
Sodium: 634.59mg
Calcium: 365.72mg
Potassium: 441.19mg
Iron: 1.88mg
Vitamin A: 168.82µg
Vitamin C: 27.47mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Reuben Casserole Recipe

When preparing the sauce for this Reuben casserole, it's crucial to add the chicken broth and milk gradually while continuously whisking. This method, known as tempering, prevents the sauce from becoming lumpy and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency. Also, when adding the Swiss cheese, make sure the sauce is removed from heat. This allows the cheese to melt gently without becoming grainy or separating, resulting in a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly complements the other ingredients in the casserole.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Reuben Casserole Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in one pot or pan to reduce cleanup time.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to utilize downtime, such as chopping vegetables while waiting for water to boil.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, mandolines, and slow cookers to expedite meal preparation.

Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to maintain an organized kitchen and minimize post-cooking cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Reuben Casserole Recipe

rotini - Substitute with penne: Penne is a similar shaped pasta and will work well in the casserole.
cabbage - Substitute with kale: Kale can provide a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
sauerkraut - Substitute with kimchi: Kimchi can provide a tangy and fermented flavor similar to sauerkraut.
corned beef - Substitute with pastrami: Pastrami has a similar flavor profile and texture to corned beef.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter.
onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots can provide a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor with added texture from the mustard seeds.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a similar umami flavor to the dish.
swiss cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese can provide a similar creamy and nutty flavor to the dish.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs in this recipe.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese can provide a similar salty and tangy flavor to the dish.
parsley - Substitute with chives: Chives can provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Best Presentation Ideas for Reuben Casserole

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Reuben casserole, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Consider using a rectangular or oval plate to showcase the layers of the casserole beautifully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with finely chopped parsley or chives. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of freshness to each serving.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as a small side salad with radishes and cucumbers, to provide a contrast in texture and elevate the overall dining experience.
Utilize sauce drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle a small amount of the creamy sauce over the casserole in an artistic manner. This adds a touch of finesse to the presentation and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Emphasize symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of the components on the plate to create a sense of balance and symmetry. This attention to detail will impress the judges and elevate the overall presentation of the dish.
Consider portion control: Present the Reuben casserole in individual ramekins or mini cocottes to offer portion control and a sophisticated, personalized touch to the plating.
Use high-quality serving utensils: Opt for elegant and high-quality serving utensils to complement the presentation. This attention to detail will demonstrate a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the dish.
Highlight the layers: Showcase the layers of the casserole by serving it in a clear glass baking dish, allowing the judges to appreciate the intricate components and textures of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Reuben Casserole Recipe

Oven: An essential appliance for baking, roasting, and broiling dishes.
Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling or stewing.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
Baking dish: A rectangular or square dish used for baking casseroles, lasagnas, and other oven-baked dishes.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining liquids from food.
Spatula: A flat, flexible kitchen tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential tools for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Cutting board: A sturdy board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing.

Storing and Freezing Reuben Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the reuben casserole, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the cooled casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
2. Cover the plastic wrap with a layer of aluminum foil, labeling it with the date and contents.
3. Place the wrapped casserole in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen casserole, you have two options:
1. Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
2. Bake the frozen casserole directly from the freezer, increasing the baking time to 45-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Make sure to remove the plastic wrap and cover the dish with foil before baking to prevent the top from burning.
If you plan on freezing the casserole, it's best to use a disposable aluminum pan or a freezer-safe baking dish to avoid thermal shock when reheating.
When reheating the reuben casserole, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.

How to Reheat Reuben Casserole Leftovers

To reheat leftover reuben casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning and drying out. Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the breadcrumb topping.
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and steaming. The damp paper towel will help prevent the casserole from drying out during reheating.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat individual portions in a toaster oven. Place a serving of the casserole on a toaster oven tray and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the top is crispy and the casserole is heated through.
If you have a large amount of leftover casserole, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the casserole to the slow cooker and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method is perfect for keeping the casserole warm for an extended period, making it ideal for potlucks or gatherings.
Lastly, you can reheat the casserole in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a serving of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the bottom is slightly crispy. This method works well for individual portions and helps create a delightful contrast of textures.

Interesting Fact About Reuben Casserole

The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli favorite, inspired the creation of the Reuben casserole. This casserole combines the flavors of the traditional sandwich into a convenient and delicious baked dish. The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese pays homage to the beloved Reuben sandwich, offering a unique twist on the classic flavors.

Is Making Reuben Casserole Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This reuben casserole recipe offers a moderate cost-effectiveness for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like cabbage, sauerkraut, and corned beef makes it budget-friendly. However, the inclusion of Swiss cheese and Dijon mustard may slightly elevate the cost. Overall, this dish rates a 7 for cost-effectiveness. For a family of four, the approximate cost is around $20, making it a reasonable option for a hearty meal.

Is This Casserole Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Reuben casserole recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in saturated fat due to the generous amounts of butter, cheese, and corned beef. Excessive saturated fat intake can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
The sodium content is likely to be high, considering the use of corned beef, sauerkraut, and chicken broth. High sodium intake can lead to hypertension and other cardiovascular problems.
The recipe is relatively low in fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting feelings of fullness.
While cabbage is a nutritious vegetable, it is not enough to balance out the less healthy aspects of the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and cheese used in the recipe, or opt for lower-fat alternatives like reduced-fat Swiss cheese and light butter.
Replace some of the pasta with additional cabbage or other low-calorie vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to increase the fiber content and reduce the overall calorie density of the dish.
Use low-sodium chicken broth and corned beef to decrease the sodium content. You can also rinse the sauerkraut to remove some of the excess salt.
Incorporate whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients.
Serve the casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add more vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Reuben Casserole Recipe

As a culinary expert, I find this Reuben casserole recipe to be a delightful twist on the classic sandwich. The combination of rotini, sauerkraut, and corned beef, smothered in a creamy Swiss cheese sauce, creates a comforting and flavorful dish. The addition of cabbage adds a pleasant crunch and a hint of freshness. The topping of buttery breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese provides a satisfying contrast in texture. Overall, this recipe offers a unique and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a comforting casserole form.

Enhance Your Reuben Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables with a balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Alternative Recipes Similar to Reuben Casserole

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole: This casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines all the flavors of a loaded baked potato in one delicious meal. It's perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: This classic Chinese dish is a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights. The tender beef and crisp broccoli are coated in a savory sauce that's sure to satisfy your cravings for takeout.

Apple Crisp: This warm and comforting dessert is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall. The sweet and tart apples are topped with a crispy oat topping that's sure to please your taste buds.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Reuben Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and elegant appetizer, try making stuffed mushrooms. These bite-sized treats are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. They're the perfect way to start off any meal or party.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Another crowd-pleasing appetizer is spinach and artichoke dip. This creamy and cheesy dip is packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread. It's a great option for any gathering or game day spread.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Reuben Casserole Recipe:

This recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, transforming it into a hearty and flavorful casserole. The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering. The step-by-step instructions ensure that every element comes together perfectly, and the homemade sauce adds a touch of gourmet flair. Trust in the traditional flavors and innovative presentation of this Reuben casserole, and you'll be rewarded with a memorable and mouthwatering meal.

Share your thoughts on the Reuben Casserole Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What is a good substitute for sauerkraut if I don't have any on hand?

If you don't have sauerkraut, you can use shredded pickles or coleslaw mix as a substitute. They will provide a similar tangy flavor and texture to the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F until it's heated through.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the corned beef with vegetarian deli slices or omitting it altogether. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rotini?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni if you don't have rotini on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.

How long will the leftovers last in the refrigerator?

The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven when you're ready to enjoy them again.