Description
The Reuben Crescent Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and rich Thousand Island dressing—wrapped in buttery, flaky crescent dough. This family-style bake offers all the satisfying tastes of a Reuben sandwich in a warm, golden casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or parties. It’s a crowd-pleaser, featuring layers of flavorful ingredients baked to perfection in a dish that’s easy to slice and serve.
Ingredients
Scale
- ¾ cup sauerkraut squeezed dry
- ⅓ cup Thousand Island salad dressing
- 8 oz tube refrigerated crescent rolls
- ¾ pound thinly sliced cooked corned beef
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 beaten egg white
Instructions
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Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
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Make the Sauerkraut Mixture: In a bowl, mix sauerkraut with Thousand Island dressing.
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Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough: Divide crescent roll dough into two parts and roll out one half into a 12-inch square on a floured surface.
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Form the Bottom Crust: Place the rolled-out dough in the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom.
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Prebake the Bottom Crust: Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned.
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Layer the Filling: Layer 4 slices of Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut mixture, and remaining 4 slices of cheese over the prebaked crust.
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Prepare the Top Crust: Roll out the second half of the dough into a 9-inch square and place over the filling, sealing the edges.
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Seal and Brush with Egg: Press edges to seal and brush the top with beaten egg white.
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Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, let stand for 5 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Ingredient Quality:
For the best flavor, use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Choose a good deli-style corned beef or prepare your own if you prefer. Look for a full-flavored Swiss cheese that melts well. Make sure to thoroughly drain the sauerkraut to prevent the crescent dough from becoming soggy. - Make-Ahead Option:
This bake can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent option for prepping in advance, especially for holiday meals or entertaining. Just adjust the baking time slightly if cooking from a chilled state. - Variations:
Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting it to dietary needs. For example, try adding spicy jalapeños for a kick, or use a gluten-free crescent dough for those with gluten sensitivities. You can also make a vegetarian version using plant-based deli meats or alternative fillings. - Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Reuben Crescent Bake with a side of pickles, coleslaw, or chips to complement the rich flavors. It’s also great with a simple green salad to balance the dish. - Leftover Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the crescent dough flaky, reheat in the oven at 350°F, rather than microwaving, which can make the dough soft and soggy.