Reuben Crescent Bake: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Sandwich

The Reuben Crescent Bake is a creative and delicious take on the classic Reuben sandwich. This dish transforms the beloved combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing into a warm, flaky, and shareable bake that’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or game-day feasts.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the Reuben sandwich, the ingredients needed for a Reuben Crescent Bake, step-by-step instructions for making it, and tips for variations and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a fan of the original sandwich or just looking for a new and tasty dish to try, this recipe is sure to impress.

The Origin of the Reuben Sandwich

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a quick look at the history behind the Reuben sandwich. The Reuben is said to have originated in the early 20th century, with two main competing origin stories:

1. Omaha, Nebraska Theory – One popular account attributes the sandwich to Reuben Kulakofsky, a grocer in Omaha, Nebraska. The story goes that he created the sandwich for his poker group at the Blackstone Hotel, and it was later added to the hotel’s menu.
2. New York City Theory – Another theory credits Arnold Reuben, a German-Jewish deli owner in New York City, with creating a similar sandwich in his restaurant, Reuben’s Delicatessen.

Regardless of its exact origin, the Reuben sandwich has become an iconic American dish, loved for its savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors.

What is a Reuben Crescent Bake?

A Reuben Crescent Bake takes all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich and bakes them into a golden, flaky crescent roll crust. Instead of using rye bread, this version incorporates buttery crescent roll dough, making it easier to prepare and serve as a casserole or sliceable bake.

This dish is ideal for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or any time you want to enjoy the flavors of a Reuben without the hassle of assembling individual sandwiches.

Ingredients for Reuben Crescent Bake

To make a delicious Reuben Crescent Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

the Base:

• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 lb thinly sliced corned beef (or pastrami for a twist)
• 8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded or sliced
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry

the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing (or Russian dressing)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tanginess)

Topping (Optional):

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (for a rye bread flavor twist)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pinching the seams together to form a solid layer. This will be the base of your Reuben Crescent Bake.

2. Layer the Fillings

• Spread half of the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the dough.
• Layer half of the Swiss cheese on top.
• Add the sliced corned beef, spreading it out evenly.
• Distribute the sauerkraut over the meat.
• Top with the remaining Swiss cheese.
• Drizzle the rest of the Thousand Island dressing over the layers.

3. Add the Top Layer

Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the fillings. Pinch the edges together to seal the top and bottom layers. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden finish, and sprinkle with caraway seeds and garlic powder for added flavor.

4. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Cool and Serve

Allow the bake to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.

Tips and Variations

Want to make your Reuben Crescent Bake even more special? Here are some ideas:

1. Swap the Meat

• Use pastrami instead of corned beef for a slightly different, spiced flavor.
• Try turkey for a lighter version.

2. Change the Cheese

• Substitute Swiss cheese with provolone or Gruyère for a different taste.

3. Add Extra Flavors

• Mix horseradish into the dressing for a zesty kick.
• Add chopped pickles for extra crunch and tang.
• Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the base dough for a creamier texture.

4. Make It Low-Carb

• Instead of crescent dough, try using low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly fathead dough.

5. Serve It Differently

• Cut into bite-sized squares for an appetizer.
• Serve with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.

What to Serve with Reuben Crescent Bake

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:

Classic Pairings:

• Dill Pickles – A crisp and tangy side that complements the richness of the bake.
• Potato Chips – Adds a nice crunch to your meal.
• Coleslaw – A fresh and creamy contrast to the warm bake.

Lighter Options:

• Garden Salad – A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or carrots make a healthy addition.

Beverage Pairings:

• Iced Tea – A refreshing balance to the flavors.
• Craft Beer – A light lager or amber ale pairs wonderfully.

Conclusion

The Reuben Crescent Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that captures all the flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich in a convenient, baked format. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or serving it at a party, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

By following these simple steps and experimenting with different variations, you can tailor this dish to your taste and make it a new favorite in your meal rotation. So, grab your ingredients and get baking!

Have you tried making a Reuben Crescent Bake? Let us know your favorite variations in the comments!

Print