Reuben-Kraut Casserole
A savory casserole combining tangy sauerkraut, tender corned beef, melted mozzarella, and crispy rye bread bits, all baked to perfection. This hearty dish offers a comforting blend of flavors, ideal for family dinners or gatherings with those who love classic deli-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the sauerkraut and mix it with the diced onion and sour cream.
- Spread the sauerkraut mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Distribute the sliced corned beef over the sauerkraut mixture.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Break the rye bread into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the cheese layer.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the entire casserole.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of caraway seeds to the sauerkraut mixture. If you're short on time, you can use deli sliced corned beef instead of cooking your own. Feel free to substitute the mozzarella with Swiss cheese for a more traditional Reuben taste. This dish also works well with leftover corned beef from your St. Patrick's Day celebrations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Reuben-Kraut Casserole with a simple mixed green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with a side of pickles or potato chips for added crunch. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a bowl of Old Settler'S Baked Beans for a complete comfort food experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reuben-Kraut Casserole contains roughly 659 calories, with 18g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 898mg per serving (39% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time as it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of sauerkraut?
If you're not a fan of sauerkraut, you can substitute it with coleslaw mix or even chopped spinach for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste of the dish, but it can still be delicious.
Can I freeze the Reuben-Kraut Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the baking instructions. If baking from frozen, add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
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).