This Reuben in a Bowl gives you all the tasty flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich without the bread! It’s filled with tender corned beef, creamy sauerkraut, and a rich dressing that makes every bite amazing.
Who would have thought a bowl could be so satisfying? I love topping mine with a sprinkle of cheese, because cheese always makes everything better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sauerkraut: This tangy ingredient brings a unique flavor to the dish. If you can’t find sauerkraut, try using pickled cabbage or coleslaw mix for a similar tangy crunch.
Corned Beef: I love using deli-style corned beef for its richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded chicken or turkey can be a great substitute, though the taste will change a bit.
Swiss Cheese: The melty goodness of Swiss cheese really makes this dish pop. If you’re not a fan, consider using provolone or even mozzarella as alternatives—they also melt well!
Dressings: I usually go for Russian dressing, but Thousand Island works just as well. For a lighter twist, try Greek yogurt mixed with some ketchup and pickle relish!
Caraway Seeds: These seeds add a hint of earthy flavor. If you’re not keen on them, feel free to skip them or substitute with dill seeds for a different profile.
How Do You Make Sure The Cheese Melts Perfectly?
A key step in this recipe is melting the cheese evenly over the mixture. To achieve this, make sure to cover the skillet with a lid after sprinkling the cheese on top. This helps trap steam, which aids in melting.
- Cook the mixture until it’s hot, then sprinkle the cheese liberally over the top.
- Cover the skillet and keep the heat on low for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Check that the cheese is melted by gently lifting the lid—nothing beats that melted cheese stretch!
How to Make Reuben In A Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- 2 slices of rye bread (to serve on the side)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Reuben In A Bowl recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal that brings the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich straight to your bowl!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Main Ingredients:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the drained sauerkraut and chopped corned beef to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture is heated through and everything is nice and warm.
2. Adding Fresh Flavors:
Next, add the grated carrot and finely chopped red onion to the skillet, along with the optional caraway seeds. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the mixture for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together beautifully.
3. Melting the Cheese:
Once your mixture is well combined and heated, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. This will bring everything together in a cheesy delight!
4. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the Russian or Thousand Island dressing over the cheesy mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions for that fresh crunch and added flavor.
5. Toasting the Rye Bread:
While your skillet is cooling, toast the rye bread slices in a toaster or on a pan until they are golden brown. Once toasted, cut them into strips or triangles to serve on the side. They’re perfect for dipping or topping your bowl!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve your Reuben in a bowl! Scoop some of the delicious mixture into a bowl and provide the toasted rye bread on the side. Enjoy it warm, and savor the classic Reuben flavors in a new, cozy format!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with gouda, mozzarella, or provolone for a different flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best experience!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of dressing if needed to refresh the dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Sauerkraut?
If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, you can use coleslaw mix or pickled cabbage for a similar tangy flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before using to avoid a watery dish!
