This tasty Reuben in a Bowl takes all your favorite Reuben sandwich ingredients and turns them into a warm and comforting meal. It’s loaded with corned beef, sauerkraut, and creamy dressing!
Who needs bread when you can have all the fun flavors in a bowl? I love digging in with a spoon and feeling all cozy. Perfect for those days when you want comfort without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: This is the star of the dish! If you don’t have corned beef, consider using pastrami or even shredded chicken for a lighter option. You can also use canned corned beef if needed.
Coleslaw Mix: Pre-packaged coleslaw mix saves time, but you can easily make your own with shredded cabbage and carrots. If you want a crunchier texture, try adding some diced bell peppers.
Sauerkraut: This gives the dish its tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with diced pickles or even a pinch of vinegar for that sour kick.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss adds a nice melty texture. If you prefer a stronger flavor, try Gruyère cheese instead. For lactose-free diets, there are plant-based cheeses available that melt well.
Dressing: Russian or Thousand Island dressing is traditional, but you can use a tangy yogurt dressing or even a vinaigrette for a fresher take.
How Do I Make the Cabbage Tender Without Overcooking?
Getting the right texture for the cabbage in this dish is key. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by adding in the coleslaw mix and sauerkraut after warming the corned beef. This layers the flavors without overcooking the beef.
- Cook on medium heat to keep the veggies tender-crisp. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Around 5-7 minutes is just right for the cabbage to soften. If you prefer extra crunch, you can reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes.
By following these steps, you’ll get perfectly tender cabbage every time, making your Reuben In A Bowl even more delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Reuben In A Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb corned beef, cooked and diced
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 4 slices of rye bread (for croutons, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes total, including 10 minutes of cooking time. You’ll quickly warm up the corned beef and veggies, melt in the cheese, and mix everything together. It’s simple and perfect for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Corned Beef:
Take a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the diced corned beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s warmed all the way through, which should take about 5 minutes. Just stir occasionally to make sure it heats evenly.
2. Add the Cabbage:
Once the corned beef is warm, add in the coleslaw mix and sauerkraut. Stir everything together well. Let this cook for another 5-7 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender and everything is nice and heated through.
3. Mix in the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the Swiss cheese! Stir the shredded cheese into the skillet until it melts and gets all gooey and mixed in with the other ingredients. It will add that delicious, cheesy flavor!
4. Season and Dress:
Take a moment to taste your mix, then add salt and pepper as needed. After that, drizzle the Russian or Thousand Island dressing over everything and gently toss to combine. This will add a tangy touch to your dish!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Serving time! Spoon the delicious mixture into bowls and top each with some sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. If you want, you can also prepare the rye bread.
6. Optional Croutons:
If you’d like croutons, toast the rye bread slices in a toaster or on a skillet until they are nice and crispy. Then cut them into bite-sized pieces to either sprinkle on top of your bowls or serve on the side.
Enjoy your tasty Reuben In A Bowl!
Can I Substitute the Corned Beef?
Absolutely! If you don’t have corned beef, you can use other cooked meats such as pastrami or even shredded chicken for a lighter option. Just season the meat accordingly to maintain that classic flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the mixture gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture. Avoid microwaving for even heating.
What Can I Use Instead of Coleslaw Mix?
If you can’t find coleslaw mix, you can easily make your own by shredding green cabbage and carrots. Just use about 4 cups and adjust the ratios based on your preference for crunch and color!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the corned beef and use a plant-based protein, like tempeh or tofu, seasoned with some liquid smoke for a smoky taste. You can also increase the amount of sauerkraut and add some beans for extra protein!
