Reuben Bread

Reuben Bread is a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. This pull-apart or rolled loaf is stuffed with corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all baked inside golden, crusty bread. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer, snack, or lunch that captures all the iconic Reuben flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes everything you love about a classic Reuben and turns it into an easy-to-serve loaf that’s great for parties, game days, or a fun family dinner. It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfectly savory. Plus, you can prep it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready—great for stress-free entertaining!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed (or homemade dough)
• ½ pound thinly sliced corned beef
• 1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained
• 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
• ¼ cup Thousand Island dressing (plus extra for dipping)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed bread dough into a large rectangle (about 12×8 inches).
3. Spread Thousand Island dressing down the center of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
4. Layer corned beef, sauerkraut, and shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the dressing.
5. Fold the long sides of the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal. Tuck the ends under to close.
6. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with caraway seeds if using.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Let cool slightly, slice, and serve with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.

Servings and timing

Makes about 6–8 slices.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: About 45 minutes (plus dough thawing time, if using frozen)

Variations

• Use rye bread dough for an authentic Reuben flavor.
• Substitute pastrami for corned beef if you prefer.
• Add a layer of sautéed onions or pickles for extra flavor.
• Make mini Reuben rolls instead of one large loaf for party bites.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover Reuben Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat slices in a 350°F oven or toaster oven until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use pizza dough instead of bread dough?

Yes! Pizza dough works great and bakes up beautifully.

2. How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Drain the sauerkraut well and pat it dry with paper towels.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bread and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking.

4. What dipping sauce works best?

Thousand Island dressing is classic, but Russian dressing is delicious too.

5. Can I freeze Reuben Bread?

Yes! Bake, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven.

6. Can I make it vegetarian?

Try using sautéed mushrooms or a veggie deli meat substitute.

7. What bread dough is best?

Frozen white bread dough, pizza dough, or homemade rye bread dough all work well.

8. How do I keep it from opening while baking?

Seal the edges well and place seam-side down.

9. Can I add more cheese?

Of course—extra Swiss or even some cheddar makes it extra gooey.

10. Is this good for parties?

Absolutely! Slice it into smaller pieces for an easy appetizer everyone will love.

Conclusion

Reuben Bread is a fun, easy twist on the classic deli sandwich that everyone will devour. With its melty cheese, savory corned beef, and tangy dressing all wrapped in warm bread, it’s perfect for game days, parties, or a comforting lunch. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of a beloved sandwich in a whole new way!

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