If you are craving all the hearty, tangy, and cheesy goodness of a classic Reuben sandwich but in a fun, shareable form, then this Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender, juicy corned beef layered with tangy sauerkraut and Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in flaky, buttery crescent dough that bakes into a golden, irresistible dish. It’s like having a warm, comforting Reuben sandwich that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe brings everything you love about deli flavors into one easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe right comes down to a handful of simple but indispensable ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—whether it’s the flaky texture of the crescent dough, the savory punch of corned beef, or the tangy zip of sauerkraut—these ingredients combine beautifully for an easy yet flavor-packed meal.
- Crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): This buttery, flaky dough provides the perfect golden crust that holds all the savory fillings together.
- Corned beef (1 lb, thinly sliced): The main protein, tender and flavorful, bringing that beloved deli-meat essence to your bake.
- Shredded Swiss cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into gooey goodness with a mild, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the beef and sauerkraut.
- Sauerkraut (1 cup, drained): Adds a delightful tang and crunch that brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
- Thousand island dressing (1/4 cup, optional): A creamy, tangy drizzle that echoes the classic Reuben sandwich dressing.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Used to grease the baking pan for easy release and adds a subtle richness.
How to Make Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven and greasing your baking dish with butter to ensure the crescent rolls won’t stick. Open the cans of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll them, pressing the seams together to create a single flat sheet that will form the base of your bake.
Step 2: Layer the Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
Evenly distribute the thinly sliced corned beef over the dough layer, making sure each bite will be packed with meaty goodness. Next, spread the well-drained sauerkraut evenly over the beef, adding that bright punch of flavor that makes a Reuben so special.
Step 3: Add the Swiss Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese generously over the sauerkraut. This cheese will melt beautifully, adding gooey richness that ties all the layers together.
Step 4: Top with Crescent Dough
Unroll the second can of crescent rolls and carefully place it on top of the cheese layer, sealing the edges by pinching the dough together. This seals in the fillings and creates that perfectly golden crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pop the assembled bake into the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and puffed up. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly inside.
Step 6: Optional Dressing Drizzle
Once out of the oven, drizzle the top with Thousand Island dressing if you like, adding a creamy, tangy finish just like the classic sandwich.
How to Serve Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can enhance every bite of your Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and fresh herbal notes. For a little extra tang, consider a light dusting of caraway seeds on top or serve with a pickle spear on the side for authentic deli vibes.
Side Dishes
This hearty bake shines with simple, fresh sides. Crisp coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or a green salad with a light vinaigrette complement the richness perfectly. You can also serve it alongside some classic kettle chips for crunch and salty goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your table pop, slice your Reuben Crescent Bake into squares and serve on a wooden board with small bowls of extra Thousand Island dressing and pickles. Alternatively, cut into bite-sized pieces to serve as party appetizers; guests will love grabbing these warm, cheesy parcels. For a brunch twist, pair with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Reuben Crescent Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers just as delicious the next day. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying.
Freezing
If you want to make this Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore that flaky crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crescent dough nice and flaky, but microwaving is fine if you’re in a hurry—just expect a softer texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts wonderfully, you can substitute Gruyère, mozzarella, or even provolone for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is Thousand Island dressing necessary?
Thousand Island dressing is optional but adds the classic Reuben tang. You can skip it if you prefer or serve it on the side for dipping.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian twist, replace corned beef with grilled or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and use a plant-based deli slice or smoked tofu. Sauerkraut and Swiss cheese still provide that authentic tangy effect.
How spicy is this Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe?
This bake is mildly tangy and savory rather than spicy. If you love some heat, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce or swapping the Thousand Island dressing for a spicy Russian dressing variant.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly to accommodate the two cans of crescent dough and the layering of fillings without overcrowding.
Final Thoughts
This Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish bursting with all the flavors that make a Reuben sandwich a classic favorite. It’s simple to prepare, perfect for any occasion, and sure to become one of your go-to recipes when you want something deliciously comforting. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table—your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Print
Reuben Crescent Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Reuben Crescent Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make casserole that combines all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut—wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this bake is simple to prepare and delivers that tangy, savory satisfaction in every bite. The optional drizzle of thousand island dressing adds a creamy, zesty finish that enhances the traditional Reuben taste.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough
Filling
- 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
Other
- 1/4 cup thousand island dressing (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare crescent dough: Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough and press the dough into the prepared baking dish, making sure to seal all seams to create a solid base layer.
- Add the filling: Evenly layer the thinly sliced corned beef over the dough base. Then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese on top of the corned beef, followed by an even layer of drained sauerkraut.
- Top with second dough layer: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the filling layers. Pinch seams to seal edges completely to encase the filling within the dough.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add optional dressing and serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Optionally drizzle thousand island dressing over the top slices before serving to enhance the classic Reuben flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid a soggy crust.
- You can substitute the corned beef with pastrami or roast beef if preferred.
- This dish can be served with extra thousand island dressing or a side of pickles for an authentic Reuben experience.
- For a crispier top, brush the dough with melted butter before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain the flaky crust.
