Name: Hot Reuben Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 oz corned beef; 10 oz cream cheese; 6 oz swiss cheese slices; ¾ cup Sauerkraut; ½ cup Thousand Island dressing; 1 tsp caraway seeds; 8 slices rye bread; 3 tbsp butter; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tbsp chives

This hot reuben dip is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for parties and gatherings. It combines all the flavors of a traditional Reuben, but in a warm, cheesy dip form.

Photos of Hot Reuben Dip Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you may need to pick up a few items that aren't typically found in every pantry. Corned beef can be found in the deli section, while sauerkraut is usually located near pickles and other fermented goods. Make sure to grab Swiss cheese and cream cheese from the dairy aisle, and thousand island dressing from the salad dressing section.

Ingredients for Hot Reuben Dip

Corned beef: A key ingredient, providing the savory and slightly salty flavor typical of a Reuben sandwich.

Cream cheese: Adds a creamy texture that helps bind the dip together.

Swiss cheese: Known for its mild, nutty flavor, it melts beautifully in the dip.

Sauerkraut: Provides a tangy contrast and adds an essential Reuben flavor.

Thousand island dressing: Offers a sweet and tangy element that complements the other ingredients.

Caraway seeds: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor reminiscent of rye bread.

Rye bread: Used for the buttery, crispy topping and for dipping.

Butter: Helps to toast the rye bread crumbs to a golden crisp.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Chives: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the finished dip.

One reader, Cristabel Jay says:

This hot reuben dip recipe is a game-changer! The creamy, cheesy blend with the tangy sauerkraut and caraway seeds is simply irresistible. Perfect for parties, it was a hit with everyone. The toasted rye bread adds the perfect crunch. Highly recommend!

Cristabel Jay

Techniques Required for Making Hot Reuben Dip

How to combine ingredients: Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix corned beef, cream cheese, cubed Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, dressing, and caraway seeds in a large bowl until evenly combined.

How to make bread crumbs: Tear rye bread into pieces and pulse in a food processor or spice grinder until coarsely ground.

How to toast bread crumbs: Melt butter over medium heat in a skillet, add bread crumbs, and stir to coat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until crumbs are dry and crisp.

How to toast bread slices: Lightly butter rye bread slices, sprinkle with kosher salt, and arrange on a metal cooling rack inside a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for the last 10 minutes of baking the dip.

How To Make Hot Reuben Dip

All the classic flavors of sauerkraut, corned beef, and rye bread are turned into this hot Reuben dip. It’s a great dish to serve up on parties & game days.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

10ozcorned beef,(from the deli counter or homemade), chopped
10ozcream cheese,room temperature
6ozswiss cheese slices,cut into small pieces
¾cupsauerkraut,drained
½cupthousand Island dressing,(homemade or store-bought)
1tspcaraway seeds
8slicesrye bread,divided
3tbspbutter,plus more for the toast
½tspkosher salt,plus more for sprinkling
½tbspchives,minced, for garnish

Instructions

Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.
In a large bowl, combine corned beef, cream cheese, cubed Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, dressing, and caraway seeds with a sturdy spoon or spatula. Spread evenly into a 2-quart oven-safe dish. Set aside.
Tear two slices of rye bread into pieces and pulse in a food processor or spice grinder until coarsely ground. Process additional slices of bread as needed.
Melt the butter over medium heat in a medium skillet. Add the crumbs and stir to coat.
Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 10 minutes, until the crumbs are dry and crisp. Remove from heat.
Sprinkle the crumbs evenly over the dip. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
Lightly butter the remaining slices of rye bread and sprinkle with a bit of kosher salt. Stack slices on top of one another, and then slice into triangles or rectangles. Place a metal cooling rack inside a baking sheet and arrange the bread slices on top.
When there is about 10 minutes left on the dip, place the bread in the oven alongside the dip to toast.
Remove the dip and the toasts from oven. Top the dip with minced chives, stick in a spoon, and serve immediately while hot.
Instruct guests to eat by scooping out a bit of the dip with the spoon and topping pieces of toast.

Nutrition

Calories: 260.76kcal
Fat: 22.27g
Saturated Fat: 10.58g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.66g
Carbohydrates: 6.01g
Fiber: 0.68g
Sugar: 2.87g
Protein: 9.35g
Cholesterol: 62.13mg
Sodium: 571.10mg
Calcium: 146.94mg
Potassium: 151.25mg
Iron: 0.93mg
Vitamin A: 143.78µg
Vitamin C: 7.81mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Hot Reuben Dip

For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of butter and olive oil when toasting the rye bread crumbs. The olive oil will add a subtle depth to the breadcrumbs while the butter provides that classic, rich taste.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Hot Reuben Dip Recipe

Pre-chop ingredients: Prepare the corned beef, cream cheese, swiss cheese, and sauerkraut ahead of time to streamline the mixing process.

Use pre-made crumbs: Save time by using store-bought bread crumbs instead of making your own from rye bread.

Microwave butter: Melt the butter in the microwave to speed up the process of coating the bread crumbs.

Batch toasting: Toast all the rye bread slices at once on a large baking sheet to save oven time.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the ingredients to ensure it's ready when you are.

Substitute Ingredients For Hot Reuben Dip Recipe

corned beef - Substitute with pastrami: Pastrami has a similar flavor profile and texture, making it a suitable replacement in the dip.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture, though it may be slightly less rich.
swiss cheese slices - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone has a mild flavor and melts well, making it a good alternative to Swiss cheese.
sauerkraut - Substitute with kimchi: Kimchi offers a similar fermented taste with a bit more spice, adding an interesting twist to the dip.
thousand island dressing - Substitute with Russian dressing: Russian dressing has a similar creamy and tangy profile, making it a suitable replacement.
caraway seeds - Substitute with fennel seeds: Fennel seeds provide a similar anise-like flavor, though they are slightly sweeter.
rye bread - Substitute with pumpernickel bread: Pumpernickel has a similar dense texture and robust flavor, making it a good alternative.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and helps to toast the bread nicely.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy replacement.
chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

Best Way to Present Hot Reuben Dip

Serve in individual ramekins: Portion the hot reuben dip into small, elegant ramekins for each guest. This ensures a refined presentation and allows each guest to enjoy their own serving.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Top each ramekin with a sprinkle of finely minced chives just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic touch.
Create rye bread crisps: Instead of simple toast, slice the rye bread into thin, uniform strips and bake until they are extra crispy. Arrange these crisps artfully around the ramekin for a sophisticated look.
Use a decorative platter: Place the ramekins on a large, decorative platter. Scatter a few extra caraway seeds and chives around the platter for an added touch of elegance.
Add a touch of luxury: Drizzle a small amount of high-quality thousand island dressing in a decorative pattern on the plate around the ramekin. This adds a gourmet touch and enhances the visual appeal.
Incorporate microgreens: Garnish the platter with a few sprigs of microgreens. These delicate greens add a sophisticated touch and a burst of freshness.
Serve with a side of pickles: Include a small side dish of artisanal pickles. The acidity and crunch of the pickles complement the rich, creamy dip perfectly.
Use a stylish spoon: Provide each guest with a small, elegant spoon to scoop the hot reuben dip. This adds to the overall dining experience and ensures that the presentation is cohesive and refined.

Essential Tools for Making Reuben Dip

Oven: Used to bake the dip and toast the rye bread slices.
Large bowl: For combining the corned beef, cream cheese, cubed Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, dressing, and caraway seeds.
Sturdy spoon or spatula: To mix the ingredients thoroughly.
2-quart oven-safe dish: To spread the dip mixture evenly and bake it.
Food processor or spice grinder: To coarsely grind the rye bread into crumbs.
Medium skillet: For melting butter and cooking the bread crumbs until they are dry and crisp.
Metal cooling rack: To place inside a baking sheet for toasting the buttered rye bread slices.
Baking sheet: To hold the metal cooling rack and the rye bread slices while they toast.
Knife: To slice the remaining rye bread into triangles or rectangles.
Measuring cups: To measure out the sauerkraut and thousand island dressing.
Measuring spoons: To measure the caraway seeds, butter, kosher salt, and chives.
Cutting board: To chop the chives and prepare the rye bread slices.

Storing and Freezing Hot Reuben Dip

Let the hot reuben dip cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the dip to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, transfer the cooled dip to a freezer-safe container or wrap the baking dish securely with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label the container with the date and contents. The dip can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen dip in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated dip in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly around the edges. If the topping seems too dark, cover the dish with foil while reheating.
For best results, prepare the rye bread crumbs and toasts fresh when serving the reheated dip.
If you plan on freezing the dip, consider waiting to add the bread crumb topping until you reheat it for serving. This will help maintain the texture of the topping.

How To Reheat Leftover Reuben Dip

To reheat leftover hot reuben dip, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the edges are bubbling. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the rye bread crumbs on top.
Another option is to reheat the dip in the microwave. Place the desired amount of dip in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dip is evenly heated. Be careful not to overheat the dip, as it may cause the cream cheese to separate.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place a portion of the dip in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir the dip constantly to prevent burning and ensure even heating. Once the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted, remove it from the heat and serve immediately.
If you find that the dip has thickened after refrigeration, you can add a small amount of milk or cream to help loosen it up. Stir the liquid into the dip until you reach the desired consistency.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, consume reheated hot reuben dip within 2-3 days of initial preparation. Always store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator between servings.

Random Fact About Hot Reuben Dip

A fun fact about this hot reuben dip recipe is that it combines all the classic elements of a traditional Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing—into a warm, creamy dip. This makes it a perfect party appetizer that offers a unique twist on a beloved deli favorite.

Is Making Reuben Dip at Home Economical?

This hot reuben dip recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like corned beef, cream cheese, and swiss cheese are moderately priced, while sauerkraut and rye bread are inexpensive. The use of common pantry items like butter and thousand island dressing also helps keep costs down. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. Given its rich flavor and satisfying nature, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Dip Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This hot Reuben dip recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - corned beef, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing - are all high in saturated fat and calories. Sauerkraut does provide some beneficial probiotics, but it's not enough to counteract the overall unhealthy nature of the dish. Additionally, the buttered rye bread croutons add even more saturated fat and calories to the mix.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap out the corned beef for a leaner protein like turkey or chicken
Use low-fat cream cheese and Swiss cheese to reduce the overall fat content
Replace the thousand island dressing with a lighter, yogurt-based dressing or a homemade version with less sugar and fat
Increase the amount of sauerkraut to boost the probiotic content and add more fiber
Opt for whole-grain rye bread instead of regular rye to increase the fiber content
Reduce the amount of butter used on the croutons or skip them altogether and serve the dip with fresh vegetable sticks for dipping

Editor's Opinion on This Reuben Dip Recipe

This hot Reuben dip recipe is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for gatherings. The combination of corned beef, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut creates a rich and tangy flavor profile. The caraway seeds add an authentic touch, while the toasted rye bread crumbs provide a satisfying crunch. The inclusion of Thousand Island dressing ties everything together beautifully. Toasting the rye bread slices for dipping is a brilliant idea, ensuring every bite is flavorful and texturally interesting. Topping with chives adds a fresh note. Overall, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser with a gourmet touch.

Enhance Your Hot Reuben Dip Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy crunch of brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts pairs beautifully with the creamy, savory notes of the Hot Reuben Dip, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potato wedges are seasoned with garlic and parmesan. The robust flavors and satisfying crunch make them an ideal companion to the rich and creamy dip, adding a delightful contrast in texture.

Apple and Fennel Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with crisp apples and aromatic fennel, tossed in a light vinaigrette. This side dish offers a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory, tangy elements of the Hot Reuben Dip.

Spicy Pickle Spears: Add a zesty kick with pickle spears marinated in a spicy brine. The sharp, tangy flavor of the pickles cuts through the richness of the dip, providing a palate-cleansing bite that keeps you coming back for more.

Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. The natural sweetness of the carrots, enhanced by the glaze, offers a delightful contrast to the savory and creamy Hot Reuben Dip, making each bite a flavorful adventure.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Reuben Dip

Reuben Sandwich: Transform your favorite appetizer into a classic sandwich. Layer corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing between slices of rye bread. Grill until golden and the cheese is melted. Serve hot with a side of pickles.

Reuben Egg Rolls: Take a twist on the traditional Reuben by wrapping corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese in egg roll wrappers. Fry until crispy and golden. Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.

Reuben Casserole: Combine all the flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a hearty casserole. Layer corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and rye bread cubes in a baking dish. Top with a creamy dressing and bake until bubbly and golden.

Reuben Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delightful appetizer by stuffing mushroom caps with a mixture of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Reuben Pizza: Turn your Reuben into a pizza. Spread Thousand Island dressing over a pizza crust, then top with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Hot Reuben Dip Recipe

Main Courses:

Chicken Marsala: Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory marsala wine sauce. The chicken is lightly coated in flour and sautéed until golden brown, then simmered with mushrooms and shallots in a luscious sauce made from marsala wine and chicken broth. The result is a flavorful, aromatic dish that's perfect for a special dinner. Serve it over buttery mashed potatoes or al dente pasta to soak up the delicious sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Beef Wellington: Beef Wellington is an elegant and impressive dish that features a succulent beef tenderloin wrapped in a layer of mushroom duxelles and prosciutto, then encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry. The beef is first seared to lock in its juices, then coated with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, shallots, and herbs. The prosciutto adds a salty, savory layer, while the puff pastry provides a delightful crunch. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal, and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and a rich red wine reduction.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the Ultimate Decadence: Imagine a rich, chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes out as you take your first bite. This dessert is a symphony of textures, combining a slightly crisp exterior with a gooey, warm chocolate core. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. Garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration, this dessert will leave your guests in awe.

Tiramisu: Experience the Elegance of Italy: Dive into a luxurious tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a creamy mascarpone cheese mixture. The subtle bitterness of the espresso perfectly balances the sweetness of the cream, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Top it off with a generous dusting of cocoa powder and a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Ideal for a sophisticated dinner party or a cozy night in, this treat is sure to impress.

Why trust this Hot Reuben Dip Recipe:

This hot reuben dip recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich into a warm, creamy dip. The blend of corned beef, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut creates a rich and tangy base, while the toasted rye bread adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for parties or game day, this dip is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward instructions, ensuring a delicious and reliable dish every time.

Share your thoughts on the Hot Reuben Dip Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this delicious appetizer.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Swiss?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of Swiss cheese, you can substitute it with another type like cheddar or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor profile a bit.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, just transfer the dip to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should keep for about 3-4 days. When you're ready to eat it again, just reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add the breadcrumb topping right before you bake it to keep it crispy.

What can I use instead of thousand island dressing?

If you don't have thousand island dressing on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, and a bit of relish. Adjust the proportions to taste.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

To make this dip gluten-free, you can use gluten-free bread for the crumbs and toasts. Also, double-check that your thousand island dressing and other ingredients are gluten-free.