This Reuben in a Bowl is a fun twist on the classic sandwich. It features tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing all served over a bed of tasty greens!
I love this dish because it skips the bread, making it lighter but still super satisfying. Plus, you can pile on the toppings without any guilt – who doesn’t love that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: This is the star of the dish! If you don’t have corned beef, consider using pastrami or even cooked brisket for a similar flavor. Vegan alternatives, like seasoned tofu or tempeh, can also work well for a meatless version.
Sauerkraut: You can substitute with coleslaw mix if you like a milder flavor. If sauerkraut is not available, pickled cabbage is another option. Just remember, you want that tangy bite!
Swiss Cheese: While Swiss is traditional, you can swap it for Gruyère or Emmental. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese that melts well. I’ve found that some brands work great in this recipe!
Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and color, but you can omit them if you prefer. For a different touch, try using diced bell peppers or zucchini.
German Mustard: If you can’t find Dijon mustard, yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard can work as a substitute. Just adjust to your taste preference for heat!
How Do I Perfectly Layer the Ingredients for a Delicious Bowl?
The key to a great Reuben in a Bowl lies in properly layering your ingredients. Start by cooking the corned beef until crispy; this adds a nice texture. Then, add the sauerkraut and veggies. Stir everything before sprinkling the cheese on top. Covering the skillet allows the cheese to melt evenly, giving you that gooey goodness!
- Heat corned beef first for extra crispiness.
- Mix vegetables into the beef properly to soften them slightly.
- Always cover the skillet while melting cheese to lock in warmth.
Finishing off with the dressing drizzled on top creates a lovely contrast with the warm mixture below. Enjoy this comforting dish with the crunchy bread strips for dipping!
How to Make Reuben in a Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Bowl:
- 1 pound corned beef, diced
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Rye bread or pumpernickel, toasted and cut into strips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the meat and veggies, and another 5 minutes making the dressing and final touches. It’s quick, easy, and so delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Corned Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced corned beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s warmed through and slightly crispy. This gives it a nice texture and brings out the flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the drained sauerkraut, shredded carrots, and sliced red onion to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, just until the vegetables soften a bit and combine their flavors.
3. Melt the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the mixture in the skillet and cover it with a lid. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Yum!
4. Prepare the Dressing:
While the mixture is heating, grab a small bowl and combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing adds a creamy kick!
5. Serve It Up:
Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Use a spoon to dish out the warm mixture into serving bowls. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the top of each bowl and sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
6. Enjoy with Bread:
Serve your delicious Reuben in a Bowl with the toasted rye or pumpernickel bread strips on the side, perfect for dipping or scooping up all the yummy goodness!
Enjoy your hearty Reuben in a Bowl!
Can I Use Fresh Corned Beef Instead of Diced Corned Beef?
Absolutely! If you have fresh corned beef, cook it until tender, either by boiling, slow cooking, or pressure cooking before dicing it. Just ensure it’s fully cooked through before adding it to the skillet to combine with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten things up, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for the dressing. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to increase the nutrition factor without sacrificing flavor. Incorporating a mixed greens salad as a side can also enhance the healthiness of the meal!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge in a sealed container. Give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients might settle. This helps save time when you’re ready to serve!
