Reuben Meat Loaf
A savory meat loaf with Reuben flavors, layered with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, perfect for hearty dinners and fans of classic deli tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, rye bread crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, Russian dressing, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Mix with a wooden spoon until well blended.
- On a sheet of foil, shape the mixture into a 7 x 14-inch rectangle.
- Evenly layer the sliced corned beef, drained sauerkraut, and shredded Swiss cheese over the meat, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Starting at the short end, roll up the meat mixture in a jelly roll fashion, sealing the ends and using foil to help lift.
- Place the rolled meat loaf seam side down in a loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. If you don't have rye bread crumbs, crushed crackers or panko can work as substitutes. To save time, use pre-packaged sauerkraut. Ensure you drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your meatloaf. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meat loaf pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. For a lighter option, a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors. You can also serve it with a dollop of additional Russian dressing on the side for dipping, enhancing the classic Reuben experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Reuben Meat Loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reuben Meat Loaf contains roughly 228 calories, with 12g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2237mg per serving (97% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and roll it up in advance. Wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What can I serve with Reuben Meat Loaf?
Reuben Meat Loaf is delicious with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or even homemade potato wedges. For a more traditional pairing, a bowl of hearty soup, like Penny's Vegetable Soup, would also complement the meal nicely.
Can I freeze the meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meat loaf. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).