Mac-Reuben Hot Dish
A hearty, cheesy hot dish blending macaroni, ham, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese with a tangy mustard flavor, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, diced ham, drained pimiento, and sliced green onions.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat; stir in the flour to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the grated Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix the cheese sauce into the macaroni mixture until well combined.
- In a 3-quart baking dish, layer half of the macaroni mixture, then spread the sauerkraut over it, and top with the remaining macaroni mixture.
- Garnish with diced buttered rye bread pieces.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. If you want to enhance the flavor, try using smoked ham instead of regular chunk ham. You can also substitute the Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a richer taste. For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with mushrooms or sautéed vegetables. This dish can also be customized with various cheeses, similar to how you might experiment in a recipe like Broccoli Salad With Bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This Mac-Reuben Hot Dish makes a hearty main course and pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a tangy coleslaw or some crispy pickles for added crunch. It’s great for potlucks or family gatherings, much like the popular Six-Layer Sausage Casserole, where comfort food takes center stage.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to do so before baking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mac-Reuben Hot Dish contains roughly 1058 calories, with 14g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (124% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 547mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. This allows for some creativity while keeping the essence of the dish intact.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this Mac-Reuben Hot Dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Ensure that your Dijon mustard and any other packaged ingredients are also labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You could also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking. This will elevate the flavor profile and give it a nice kick, similar to the spicy notes found in some American recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).