Irresistible Reuben Crescent Bake: The Perfect Comfort Food Recipe

BySophie Carsel
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Introduction

This Irresistible Reuben Crescent Bake combines all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich into an easy, comforting casserole. With layers of Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut, and tangy Thousand Island dressing wrapped in buttery crescent dough, it’s perfect for a satisfying meal any night of the week.

A square piece of pie with three visible layers sits on a white plate with rounded edges; the top layer is golden brown and flaky puff pastry with a shiny, crispy texture, beneath it is a creamy, light yellow melted cheese layer, and the bottom layer is a moist, finely ground meat mixture in a brownish-red color. To the right side on the plate, there are three pickles arranged in a small stack showing their green wrinkled skin. In the background, a small white cup filled with red dipping sauce is partially visible. The plate is placed on a table with a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz each)
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese (divided)
  • 3/4 lb corned beef (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup sauerkraut (well-drained)
  • 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing (or homemade)
  • 1 egg yolk (beaten, for brushing)
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Step 2: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the baking dish, sealing any perforations to form a solid layer.
  3. Step 3: Layer 4 slices of Swiss cheese evenly over the dough.
  4. Step 4: Evenly distribute the corned beef over the cheese.
  5. Step 5: Spread the sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef.
  6. Step 6: Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut.
  7. Step 7: Top with the remaining 4 slices of Swiss cheese.
  8. Step 8: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the filling. Press the edges to seal.
  9. Step 9: Brush the top with the beaten egg yolk for a beautiful golden finish.
  10. Step 10: Sprinkle with caraway seeds for extra flavor, if using.
  11. Step 11: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  12. Step 12: Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares.
  13. Step 13: Serve warm with extra Thousand Island dressing or a side of dill pickles.

Tips & Variations

  • Make sure the sauerkraut is well drained to prevent sogginess in the bake.
  • For a homemade touch, try making your own Thousand Island dressing using ketchup, mayo, and pickle relish.
  • Swap Swiss cheese for provolone for a milder flavor.
  • Adding some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving adds color and freshness.
  • If you like it spicy, mix a little horseradish or mustard into the dressing.

Storage

Store leftover Reuben Crescent Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A square slice of layered pie sits on a white plate, showing three main layers: the top layer is golden brown and flaky pastry with a shiny, slightly crispy finish; the middle layer is rich, crumbly ground meat with a dark brown, moist texture; the bottom layer is a smooth, melted pale cheese base. On one side of the plate are two green pickles, and a small white cup filled with red sauce is in the background. The plate is placed on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it chilled until ready to bake.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based deli-style meat. The rest of the ingredients remain the same for a flavorful twist.

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Irresistible Reuben Crescent Bake: The Perfect Comfort Food Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 95 reviews
  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
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Description

This Irresistible Reuben Crescent Bake is a delicious and comforting twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Featuring layers of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing all encased in flaky crescent roll dough, it bakes to golden perfection for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Base and Topping

  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz each)
  • 1 egg yolk (beaten, for brushing)
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for garnish)

Filling

  • 8 slices Swiss cheese (divided)
  • 3/4 lb corned beef (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup sauerkraut (well-drained)
  • 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing (or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Bottom Crust: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the baking dish, making sure to seal any perforations so it forms a solid, even layer.
  3. Add First Cheese Layer: Layer 4 slices of Swiss cheese evenly over the rolled out dough to help keep the filling moist and flavorful.
  4. Layer Corned Beef: Distribute the thinly sliced corned beef evenly over the cheese layer for a hearty, savory base.
  5. Add Sauerkraut: Spread the well-drained sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef layer to add tangy moisture and texture.
  6. Drizzle Dressing: Spoon the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the sauerkraut to enhance the classic Reuben flavor profile.
  7. Top with Remaining Cheese: Layer the remaining 4 slices of Swiss cheese on top of the dressing to add richness and help bind the filling.
  8. Prepare Top Crust: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough carefully and place it over the filling, gently pressing the edges to seal the bake completely.
  9. Brush with Egg Yolk: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg yolk to achieve a beautiful golden brown color during baking.
  10. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle caraway seeds on top for an authentic flavor boost and attractive appearance.
  11. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  12. Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes to set before slicing into squares. Serve warm with extra Thousand Island dressing or dill pickles on the side.

Notes

  • Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to prevent sogginess in the bake.
  • Sealing the crescent dough perforations tightly ensures a solid crust and prevents filling leaks.
  • For a homemade Thousand Island dressing, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and a splash of vinegar.
  • Caraway seeds garnish is optional but adds an authentic rye bread flavor reminiscent of traditional Reubens.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Comfort Food, Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Reuben, Crescent Roll, Casserole, Comfort Food, Corned Beef, Sauerkraut, Swiss Cheese, Thousand Island Dressing, Easy Dinner, Party Appetizer

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