This Reuben in a Bowl is a fun twist on the classic sandwich! It features tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all served over a bed of delicious greens.
If you’re feeling a bit lazy but still want something tasty, this dish is perfect. Just layer it all in a bowl and dig in. Who needs bread anyway? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sauerkraut: This ingredient brings tanginess to the dish. If you can’t find sauerkraut, you can use pickled cabbage or make your own quick version with fresh cabbage and vinegar.
Corned Beef: Use deli-style corned beef for convenience, but leftover or slow-cooked beef works great too. For a lighter option, turkey or roast beef can be substituted.
Swiss Cheese: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, Gruyère or mozzarella can be a nice change. You can also go dairy-free with nut-based cheeses.
Carrots: They’re optional but add sweetness and crunch. If you want to swap them out, consider bell peppers or skip them entirely for a simpler dish.
Thousand Island Dressing: You can make a quick homemade version with mayo, ketchup, and relish. If you want healthier options, swap it for Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette.
How Do I Make Sure My Corned Beef and Sauerkraut Mixture Is Perfectly Heated?
Heating the corned beef and sauerkraut correctly is key to making the dish flavorful. Here’s how to do it without overcooking!
- Use medium heat on your stovetop to prevent burning.
- Make sure the sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Stir occasionally while heating to ensure everything warms evenly, about 5-7 minutes. Look for steam rising as a sign it’s ready!
How to Make Reuben In A Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup thousand island dressing
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Toast:
- Rye bread, sliced (for toasting on the side)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Reuben In A Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare. That includes 5-7 minutes for cooking the sauerkraut and corned beef, plus a little time for toasting the rye bread. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Sauerkraut and Corned Beef:
In a medium saucepan, place the drained sauerkraut and chopped corned beef. Set the heat to medium. Stir the mixture occasionally, and cook until everything is heated through, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t stick to the pan!
2. Toast the Rye Bread:
While your sauerkraut and corned beef are heating, prepare your rye bread. Toast the slices in a toaster or on a skillet until they’re golden brown and crispy. They’ll make a great side for dipping later!
3. Assemble the Bowl:
Once the sauerkraut and corned beef are warm, you can either transfer them to a large bowl or serve them in individual bowls for each person. Get creative and make it personal!
4. Add the Toppings:
Now for the fun part! Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the hot mixture. If you’re using carrots, add those on top as well. Then, drizzle the thousand island dressing all over. If you like a little kick, add a dollop of Dijon mustard.
5. Finish with Seasoning:
Lastly, sprinkle some chopped green onions and freshly cracked black pepper over the top to enhance the flavors. This step really brings everything together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Reuben mixture warm, with the toasted rye bread on the side. You can dip the bread into the bowl or enjoy it alongside. Either way, it’s going to be a delightful meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for a Reuben, you can substitute it with Gruyère or provolone for a nice twist. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try a vegan cheese that melts well.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Dish?
If you want to spice things up, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, skip the Dijon mustard or reduce the amount of dressed used, focusing instead on the tanginess of the sauerkraut.
What Can I Use Instead of Thousand Island Dressing?
If you don’t have Thousand Island dressing on hand, mayonnaise mixed with a bit of ketchup and relish works perfectly as a substitute. Alternatively, a vinaigrette or ranch dressing would also complement the flavors nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until heated through. Toast fresh rye bread to enjoy alongside for an excellent meal again!
