This tasty Reuben in a bowl has all the yummy flavors of a classic sandwich but skips the bread! It’s filled with tender corned beef, creamy dressing, and gooey cheese.
What I love about this dish is how quick it is to make. Just mix it up, heat it, and dig in. Perfect for a cozy meal or when you want something different for dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sauerkraut: This tangy ingredient adds crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use pickled cabbage for a similar taste.
Corned Beef: Feel free to substitute with pastrami or any cooked beef for a different flavor. Vegetarians might enjoy using chickpeas or a plant-based meat alternative.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss offers a nice melt and flavor. You can swap it for Gruyère or even a mild cheddar if you prefer something sharper.
Purple Cabbage: If purple cabbage is hard to find, regular green cabbage can be used without losing the crunch factor. It’s all about using what you have!
Russian or Thousand Island Dressing: If you want a lighter option, yogurt or a vinaigrette can work too. Just add some herbs for flavor!
How Do I Melt the Cheese Perfectly?
Getting that cheese to melt just right is key to this dish! Here’s how to do it:
- Cover the skillet after you’ve added the cheese. This traps steam, helping the cheese to melt faster.
- Lower the heat to avoid burning. Low and slow is the way to go- this allows the cheese to turn gooey without overcooking the other ingredients.
- Keep an eye on things! 3-5 minutes should do the trick, but all stoves vary. You want it melted and slightly bubbly.
How to Make Reuben In A Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bowl:
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup purple cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving:
- 4 slices rye bread (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the ingredients in the skillet and then a few minutes for prepping and serving. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, toss in the shredded carrots and purple cabbage. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This is the base of your bowl, so make sure the veggies are nice and tender!
2. Add Corned Beef and Sauerkraut:
Next, add the drained sauerkraut and chopped corned beef into the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This way, all the ingredients will heat up nicely and blend together.
3. Melt the Cheese:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to low. Let the cheese melt for about 3-5 minutes; you want it to be gooey and delicious!
4. Season and Combine:
Once the cheese is melted, season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Give everything a good stir to combine those flavors evenly.
5. Serve it Up:
Dish up the hot Reuben mixture into bowls. Drizzle some Russian or Thousand Island dressing on top for that classic flavor burst!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
For a pop of color, garnish your bowls with sliced green onions. They add a nice crunch and fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
7. Optional Rye Bread:
If you’d like, toast the rye bread slices until they’re crispy. Serve them on the side for dipping or as a tasty crunch to go along with your Reuben bowl.
Enjoy your Reuben In A Bowl! It’s a delightful twist on the classic sandwich and super easy to make!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Swiss cheese, you can use Gouda, provolone, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly without drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dish?
This dish is best enjoyed warm and can be served in bowls with the dressing drizzled on top. For added crunch, serve with toasted rye bread on the side for dipping, or use it as a topping on the mixture!
