This Reuben Crescent Bake is a simple, hearty dish that brings the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich into a warm, comforting bake. Featuring layers of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious, easy meal. Perfect for family dinners, brunches, or casual gatherings, it’s a great way to enjoy the iconic Reuben sandwich in a new and fun way.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

For the Crescent Roll Base:

• 2 (8 oz) tubes of crescent roll dough: This forms the base and top layer of the bake, giving it a buttery, flaky texture.

For the Filling:

• 1 pound (450g) thinly sliced deli corned beef, chopped: Corned beef is the heart of the Reuben flavor. It’s rich, savory, and tender, and when baked, it adds a comforting depth to the dish.
• 1 (14 oz) can sauerkraut, well-drained and patted dry: Sauerkraut adds a tangy bite that balances out the richness of the corned beef and cheese. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid excess moisture that could make the dish soggy.
• 2 cups (200g) shredded Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese provides a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience with a subtle nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• ½ cup (120ml) Thousand Island dressing: This classic Reuben sauce adds a creamy, tangy element to the bake. You can adjust the amount to taste or use more for extra flavor.

For the Egg Wash and Garnish:

• 1 egg, beaten: Used to brush the top layer of crescent dough, the egg wash gives the bake a golden, shiny finish when it comes out of the oven.
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional): Caraway seeds are a traditional Reuben topping that adds a slight crunch and an earthy flavor. They’re optional, but they give an authentic touch to the bake.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Base
Unroll one tube of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pinch the seams of the dough together to form one solid sheet, ensuring there are no gaps. This forms the base for your bake.

Step 3: Layer the Filling

• Shredded Swiss Cheese: Begin by sprinkling half of the shredded Swiss cheese over the crescent roll base. This layer will create a cheesy foundation that holds everything together.
• Corned Beef: Evenly spread the chopped corned beef over the cheese. You want to distribute it evenly to ensure each bite gets a good amount of meat.
• Sauerkraut: Spread the well-drained sauerkraut evenly over the corned beef. The sauerkraut provides a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese and corned beef.
• Thousand Island Dressing: Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut. This will give the bake a creamy texture and help bind the ingredients together.
• Remaining Swiss Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Swiss cheese over the top for an extra cheesy, gooey layer.

Step 4: Add the Top Layer
Unroll the second tube of crescent roll dough and place it over the filling, pinching the edges to seal. Press gently around the edges to ensure everything is tightly enclosed. The dough will puff up and become golden brown as it bakes.
Brush the top layer with the beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle the caraway seeds on top if you’re using them for added flavor and texture.

Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and puffed up. The edges should be crispy, and the cheese inside will be melted and bubbly. If the top isn’t as golden as you want, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes to give it an extra crisp.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once the Reuben Crescent Bake is done, let it cool for 5–10 minutes to allow it to set. This will make it easier to slice into squares without the filling spilling out.
Slice it into squares or wedges and serve warm. For an extra touch, offer additional Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips

• Drain the Sauerkraut Thoroughly: Sauerkraut contains a lot of liquid, which can make the dish soggy. Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible with a paper towel or dish towel to keep the bake from becoming too wet.
• Customize the Meat: If you prefer pastrami over corned beef, feel free to swap them out. Pastrami will add a slightly smoky flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Add Cooked Onions: If you love onions, sauté a few sliced onions until they’re caramelized and add them as a layer in the bake for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Mini Reuben Bakes: For individual portions, use smaller pieces of crescent dough and fill them with the same ingredients to create little Reuben pockets. These are great for parties or appetizers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With layers of rich corned beef, gooey Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, this bake is a comforting and filling dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients, like sautéed mushrooms or cooked onions, to make it your own. You can also use different types of cheese or meats depending on what you prefer.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding the family, or serving a group, this dish is always a hit. It’s easy to make in larger quantities, and everyone loves the classic Reuben sandwich flavors.

This Reuben Crescent Bake is perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of a Reuben sandwich but wants a fun, easy-to-make twist. It’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying with the right balance of tangy, savory, and creamy notes. Enjoy it with a side of pickles or extra Thousand Island dressing, and you’ve got a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!