This Easy Reuben in a Bowl takes all your favorite Reuben sandwich flavors and turns them into a cozy, quick meal. Think tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted cheese all in a bowl!
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love making it when I’m short on time but still want something tasty and satisfying. Just mix it all up and enjoy—no bread required!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both options will work wonderfully for sautéing. I often lean towards olive oil for a lighter feel, but if you’re in the mood for richness, go for butter!
Onion: A small onion is just right. You could swap it for shallots or skip it if you’re not a fan of raw onion flavor.
Cabbage: Shredded cabbage gives the right crunch. If you’re low on cabbage, don’t hesitate to use a coleslaw mix—it adds a bit of color too!
Sauerkraut: The heart of the Reuben flavor. Ensure you drain it well; too much liquid can make the dish soggy. If you’re not keen on it, you can use pickles, but it changes the flavor.
Corned Beef: Cooked corned beef is perfect here. I’ve used pastrami when I couldn’t find corned beef, and it worked beautifully, too.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese melts nicely and adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a stronger flavor, you can try Gruyère or even cheddar as a substitute.
Russian or Thousand Island Dressing: Use what you have on hand. I favor Thousand Island for its tang, but Russian dressing can also add a nice kick!
How Do I Make Sure My Cabbage Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking cabbage can be tricky! You want it tender but still crunchy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a medium heat to avoid burning the outside while leaving the inside raw.
- Sauté until it starts to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If you prefer a bit of sweetness, let it caramelize lightly by cooking a little longer.
Just keep an eye on it, and you’ll have delicious, crunchy cabbage in no time!
Easy Reuben in a Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (or use a coleslaw mix with carrots)
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup cooked corned beef or pastrami, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Rye chips or toasted rye bread strips, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. That’s right! In just a quarter of an hour, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal that’s full of classic Reuben flavor without the fuss of making sandwiches.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. It’s important to get the skillet nice and warm before you add the veggies!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This adds a lovely flavor to your bowl!
3. Cook the Cabbage:
Next, toss in the shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix) and cook it for another 5-7 minutes. You want it to wilt down and start to brown a little for extra taste.
4. Mix in Sauerkraut and Corned Beef:
Now, stir in the drained sauerkraut and chopped corned beef. Let it cook until everything is heated thoroughly, which should be about 3 minutes. The flavors will start to mingle beautifully!
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Cover it briefly until the cheese melts—just a minute or so. Who doesn’t love melty cheese?
6. Assemble Your Bowl:
Carefully transfer the hearty mixture into a serving bowl. Don’t forget to scrape in all that cheesy goodness!
7. Dress It Up:
Drizzle the Russian or Thousand Island dressing on top. This adds just the right zing!
8. Finish with Green Onions:
Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, enjoy your warm Easy Reuben in a Bowl! Pair it with rye chips or toasted rye bread strips for some extra crunch.
Enjoy your quick and comforting Reuben in a Bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Meats?
Absolutely! While corned beef is traditional, you can substitute it with pastrami for a similar flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey or grilled chicken. Just be mindful that the overall flavor may vary slightly based on the meat you choose.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra cabbage or even some cooked lentils for protein. You can also add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the mixture moist.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can prep most of this dish ahead of time! Chop the onions, shred the cabbage, and even cook the corned beef beforehand. Just assemble and heat everything up when you’re ready to eat!
