This Reuben in a Bowl is a fun twist on the classic sandwich! It features tender corned beef, creamy dressing, sauerkraut, and lots of melty cheese, all served in a cozy bowl.
If you love the flavors of a Reuben but want something easier to eat, this dish is perfect! I like to add extra cheese on top—who can resist a cheesy treat? 🧀
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sauerkraut: This tangy ingredient gives your dish a unique flavor. If you can’t find sauerkraut, try using pickled cabbage or kimchi for a different twist.
Corned Beef: Diced corned beef is a classic choice. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or lean roast beef can substitute well without losing too much flavor.
Swiss Cheese: Shredded Swiss cheese adds creaminess. If you prefer a stronger taste, Gruyère is a great alternative. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese substitute.
Carrots and Red Cabbage: Shredded carrots and red cabbage bring a crunchy texture. You can swap them for any crunchy veggies you like, such as bell peppers or jicama.
Thousand Island Dressing: You can make your own dressing by mixing mayo, ketchup, and pickles if you don’t have store-bought handy. It’s easier than you think!
How Do I Melt Cheese Perfectly?
Melting cheese properly ensures it blends beautifully into your dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- After adding the cheese on top of the mixture, keep the skillet covered. This traps the steam, helping the cheese melt faster.
- Keep the heat at medium, not high, to prevent burning. Cheese should melt smoothly, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Keep an eye on it while it melts to make sure it doesn’t overcook! Enjoy the melty goodness throughout your Reuben bowl.
How to Make Reuben In A Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 2 cups corned beef, diced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- ½ cup thousand island dressing (or more to taste)
- Rye bread, cut into strips (for serving on the side)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Reuben in a bowl takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just a quick skillet meal that’s warm and comforting, perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Skillet Mixture:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the drained sauerkraut, diced corned beef, shredded carrots, and sliced red cabbage. Cook these ingredients together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want everything to be warmed through and nicely combined.
2. Melting the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully over the warm ingredients.
3. Seasoning:
Once the cheese is melted, take the skillet off the heat. Taste the mixture and season it with salt and pepper to your preference. Give it a good stir to combine the flavors.
4. Serving Your Dish:
To serve, ladle the warm Reuben mixture into bowls. Drizzle some thousand island dressing over the top and sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. It’s a tasty dish that’s ready to enjoy!
5. Enjoy with Rye Bread:
For a delightful crunch, serve strips of rye bread on the side. You can use them for dipping into your bowl or for topping your mixture. Enjoy this comforting meal!
## FAQ
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese adds the traditional flavor, you can substitute it with provolone or mozzarella for a milder taste. If you want to mix things up, a sharp cheddar will add a nice kick as well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the corned beef and increase the amount of veggies! You can add mushrooms and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. You could also use plant-based meat substitutes if you’d like to keep a similar style.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of Thousand Island dressing for moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave. For added crunch, consider toasting the rye bread strips and serving them with the heated Reuben mixture. You could also turn it into a sandwich again, using the leftover mixture between slices of rye bread!
