Reuben Loaf Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious to Make

Updated On: October 18, 2025

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a classic Reuben sandwich—the perfect blend of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Russian dressing, all nestled between rye bread.

But what if you want to enjoy all those delicious flavors without the fuss of assembling a sandwich every time? Enter the Reuben loaf recipe, a clever, easy-to-make twist that transforms the iconic sandwich into a hearty, pull-apart loaf perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

This recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors wrapped in a soft, golden crust that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Reuben sandwiches or just looking for a new way to enjoy those classic ingredients, this loaf is sure to become a favorite.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or serving as a crowd-pleaser at parties!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Reuben loaf is a brilliant fusion of convenience and flavor. Instead of individually assembling multiple sandwiches, you create one loaf bursting with all the iconic tastes of a Reuben.

It’s incredibly versatile—great for lunchboxes, quick dinners, or party platters.

Another reason to love this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the amount of corned beef, swap out the Russian dressing for Thousand Island, or add extra spices to suit your palate.

The gooey Swiss cheese melting through the layers adds a rich, creamy element that binds the whole loaf together perfectly.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining friends, this Reuben loaf brings everyone together with its satisfying, shareable nature.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of rye bread (about 12 inches long)
  • 8 oz thinly sliced corned beef
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
  • 8 oz Swiss cheese, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Russian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or tray
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp serrated knife
  • Small bowl for mixing butter and caraway seeds
  • Spatula or butter knife
  • Aluminum foil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Using a serrated knife, carefully cut the rye bread into 1-inch thick slices, but don’t slice all the way through—leave about 1/2 inch at the bottom so the loaf stays connected.
  3. Spread Russian dressing evenly between each slice on both sides, making sure every bite gets that creamy tang.
  4. Layer in the fillings: tuck thin slices of corned beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese into every crevice between the slices. Be generous but try not to overstuff to keep the loaf manageable.
  5. Once all layers are filled, gently press the loaf together to compact the fillings slightly.
  6. Brush the melted butter all over the top and sides of the loaf. If you like, sprinkle caraway seeds on top for a classic rye bread aroma and extra flavor.
  7. Wrap the loaf loosely in aluminum foil and place it on the baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
  10. Let the loaf cool for 5 minutes before serving. Use a serrated knife to cut slices or pull apart chunks.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra tangy kick, add a little extra sauerkraut or swap Russian dressing for homemade Thousand Island dressing.”

  • Make it vegetarian: Replace corned beef with grilled mushrooms or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
  • Cheese alternatives: Try Gruyère or provolone instead of Swiss for a different cheese profile.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the dressing for a smoky heat.
  • Serving size adjustment: Use a smaller or larger loaf depending on the number of servings needed.
  • Storage: Store leftovers wrapped in foil or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/6 loaf)
Calories 380 kcal
Protein 22 g
Carbohydrates 30 g
Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 8 g
Cholesterol 55 mg
Sodium 950 mg
Fiber 3 g

Serving Suggestions

This Reuben loaf pairs wonderfully with classic deli sides like a crisp dill pickle, potato chips, or a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside creamy coleslaw or baked potato wedges.

For a fun twist, offer small bowls of extra Russian dressing or mustard for dipping. And don’t forget a cold craft beer or a tangy lemonade to complement the rich, savory flavors.

Conclusion

The Reuben loaf recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy all the classic flavors of the beloved sandwich in a shareable, easy-to-make format. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends, this loaf combines tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty Russian dressing in every bite.

Its pull-apart nature makes serving effortless and fun, while the crispy, buttery crust adds just the right amount of crunch.

Whether you’re a Reuben aficionado or looking for a new twist on a deli favorite, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it your own!

For more delicious and comforting recipes, check out our Classic Meatloaf Recipe, Homemade Rye Bread, and Creamy Russian Dressing.

📖 Recipe Card: Reuben Loaf

Description: A savory twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, baked into a delicious loaf. Perfect for easy slicing and serving at gatherings.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground corned beef
  • 8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
  • 1/2 cup Russian dressing
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup rye bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground corned beef, onion, egg, rye bread crumbs, mustard, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Mix in sauerkraut and half of the Swiss cheese.
  4. Press mixture into a greased loaf pan.
  5. Spread Russian dressing evenly over the top.
  6. Sprinkle remaining Swiss cheese on top.
  7. Bake for 40-45 minutes until firm and cooked through.
  8. Let cool 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 22 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 10 g

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Marta K

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