Reuben In A Bowl is a tasty twist on the classic sandwich, packed with layers of corned beef, sauerkraut, and gooey cheese, all mixed together in a bowl! It’s comforting and oh-so-satisfying.
This dish makes lunch feel special, and you won’t have to worry about bread getting soggy. I love topping mine with a dollop of creamy dressing for that extra zing! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sauerkraut: This is a must-have for that tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, try using pickled cabbage or kimchi as a substitute. I find that the fermentation gives a nice zing, but fresh cabbage can also work if cooked longer.
Corned Beef: Diced corned beef is traditional, but if you’re vegetarian, consider using tempeh or mushrooms for a meaty texture. I’ve used deli meats with great success in the past, too, so feel free to get creative!
Swiss Cheese: Swiss adds a lovely creaminess. You can swap it for Gouda or Monterey Jack if you prefer. I’ve even mixed a bit of cheddar for a sharper flavor sometimes, and it’s delicious!
Red Cabbage: The vibrant color and crunch are a great addition. If you don’t have red cabbage, green cabbage is a fine substitute. Just keep in mind your dish will look a bit less colorful!
Thousand Island Dressing: If you don’t have this on hand, a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a dash of vinegar can be a quick alternative. That’s what I do when I’m out, and it works perfectly!
How Do You Get the Cheese to Melt Perfectly?
Melted cheese is essential for that gooey goodness in this dish. The key to success is cooking it at the right temperature and timing. Here’s how to do it:
- After adding the cheese, lower the heat to medium-low to prevent burning.
- Stir gently to incorporate it into the mixture smoothly.
- Cover the skillet for a minute to trap heat, helping the cheese melt uniformly.
With these steps, you’ll have perfectly melted cheese in your Reuben in a Bowl! Enjoy!
Reuben In A Bowl Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup corned beef, diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- ½ cup carrots, shredded
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ cup thousand island dressing
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Rye or marble rye bread, toasted and cut into strips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a hearty meal. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm the Sauerkraut and Corned Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the drained sauerkraut and diced corned beef. Stir the mixture together and let it warm for about 3-5 minutes until it’s heated through. This will bring out all the delicious flavors!
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss in the shredded red cabbage and carrots. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to become tender but still have a bit of crunch!
3. Melt the Swiss Cheese:
Now, it’s time to add the shredded Swiss cheese and caraway seeds (if you’re using them). Stir until the cheese is melted, which should take about 2 minutes. Just imagine the cheesy goodness!
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to flavor the mixture. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. It should be flavorful and satisfying!
5. Serve it Up:
Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the delicious mixture into bowls. Drizzle the thousand island dressing over the top, and don’t forget to garnish with the chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
6. Enjoy with Bread Strips:
Serve your Reuben in a bowl with the toasted rye bread strips on the side for dipping. Enjoy every spoonful of this tasty dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the corned beef with pastrami or turkey for a lighter option. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly for an easier bite.
What Can I Use Instead of Thousand Island Dressing?
If you’re not a fan of Thousand Island dressing, you can use Russian dressing or a homemade mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickle relish for a similar flavor. Adjust the proportions to your taste!
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauerkraut mixture ahead of time! Simply cook it up to step 5, let it cool, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, heat it gently on the stove, add the cheese, and continue with the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of dressing to freshen it up!
