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Whenever I find myself craving something hearty yet comforting, Reuben Bowls always come to mind. Imagine a delicious concoction where tender corned beef meets the perfect crunch of fresh cabbage, all enveloped in a wave of savory flavors — it’s the ultimate antidote to bland takeout meals! The first time I plated this vibrant bowl, the colors alone sparked a joyous anticipation that no drive-thru could ever replicate.

The magic begins with a homemade dressing that strikes the perfect balance between creamy and tangy. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures, from the melty Swiss cheese to the satisfying crunch of caraway seeds. Plus, assembling this dish takes only a fraction of the time you’d expect, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress dinner guests without stress.

So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and rediscover the fun of homemade meals that nourish both body and soul. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this gem in your back pocket for every occasion!

Why are Reuben Bowls a must-try?

Hearty goodness: These bowls combine tender corned beef with fresh veggies for a satisfying meal that puts fast food to shame.
Homemade dressing: A creamy, tangy dressing enhances each bite, bringing a restaurant-quality experience right to your kitchen.
Quick to prepare: Made in one skillet, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for busy evenings.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve these to family or friends, and watch them devour every last bite; they won’t believe how easy it was!
Elevate your weeknight dinners and transform ordinary meals by trying out this other delightful recipe that keeps you inspired in the kitchen!

Reuben Bowls Ingredients

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – A rich base that adds creaminess to your dressing.
• Sweet pickle relish – Provides a delightful sweetness and crunch.
• Ketchup – Adds a hint of tangy flavor that complements the dressing.
• Prepared horseradish – Introduces a zesty kick that elevates the dish.
• Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dressing with its refreshing acidity.
• Worcestershire sauce – Deepens flavor with its savory notes.
• Kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dressing.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and spice.

For the Bowl
• Caraway seeds – Toasted to bring out their distinct earthy aroma.
• Extra-virgin olive oil – A healthful fat for sautéing the vegetables.
• Yellow onion – Adds sweetness when caramelized, enhancing the bowl’s flavor.
• Green cabbage – Freshness and crunch that pairs beautifully with corned beef.
• Shredded carrot – Introduces a bit of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Corned beef – The star ingredient, juicy and flavorful for a comforting experience.
• Sauerkraut – Brings a tangy bite that complements the rich beef.
• Shredded Swiss – Melts beautifully over the top for a creamy finish.
• Cornichon – Tiny pickles that provide a burst of flavor and crunch.
• Green onion – Finely sliced to add a fresh garnish with a mild onion flavor.

This combination of ingredients makes for irresistible Reuben Bowls that are sure to be a hit in your home!

How to Make Reuben Bowls

Whisk together: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This creamy dressing is essential for injecting bold flavors into your dish.
Toast the seeds: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add caraway seeds and toast them, stirring frequently until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step heightens their flavor and gives your Reuben Bowls a wonderful aroma. Transfer the seeds to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: Return the same skillet to medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring constantly, until lightly golden, about 3 minutes. Toss in the thinly sliced green cabbage and shredded carrot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the cabbage has softened but remains crisp, about 5 minutes.
Combine the hearty ingredients: Stir in the sliced corned beef and drained sauerkraut, tossing everything together until warmed throughout, around 1 minute more. Then, top the cabbage mixture with shredded Swiss cheese, cover, and let it cook until the cheese is melty and bubbly, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Finish it off: Scatter the toasted caraway seeds and thinly sliced cornichon on top of your cheesy mixture. Drizzle generously with the dressing and garnish with sliced green onion to serve. Enjoy every tantalizing bite of your homemade Reuben Bowls!

Optional: Serve with extra cornichon on the side for added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Reuben Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy flavor. Additionally, the sautéed vegetables (onion, cabbage, and carrot) can be prepped and refrigerated for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the vegetables in a skillet, add the corned beef and sauerkraut, and let everything heat through for about 1-2 minutes. Top with Swiss cheese, cover until melted, and finish with caraway seeds, cornichon, and dressing before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy the same deliciousness with minimal effort on busy nights!

What to Serve with Reuben Bowls?

Imagine a culinary celebration where every bite transports you to a cozy backdrop, enhancing your homemade feast.

Rustic Bread:
Serve with slices of hearty rye or pumpernickel bread for that classic Reuben experience. The chewy texture pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the bowls.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts:
Their bitterness wonderfully offsets the savory elements of the Reuben. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
Potato Wedges:
Warm, crispy wedges drizzled with a bit of sea salt are a comforting side. Their simplicity complements the bold flavors of the main dish.
Tangy Cucumber Salad:
Refreshing and light, this salad with a vinegar dressing adds a much-needed zing. The crunchiness and acidity offer a balancing contrast to the rich corned beef.
Classic Pickles:
Serve alongside additional cornichons or dill pickles for that sharp contrast. Their tanginess enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite exciting.
Golden Sauerkraut:
Extra sauerkraut on the side emphasizes that delightful tang while blending effortlessly with the main dish. It’s a perfect nod to the traditional Reuben’s taste.
Beer or Cider:
A crisp lager or a dry cider complements the savory notes of the Reuben without overwhelming your palate. The carbonation refreshes between bites, enhancing your dining experience.
Rich Chocolate Brownies:
End on a sweet note with fudgy brownies. Their richness offers a perfect contrast to the hearty, savory flavors you’ve enjoyed in the bowls.

Each suggestion will create a harmonious meal you’ll want to repeat!

Reuben Bowls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious variations! Each twist adds a new layer of flavor and excitement.

Dairy-Free: Substitute shredded vegan cheese for Swiss and use a dairy-free mayo for the dressing to cater to lactose sensitivities.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bowl for a zesty punch that elevates the whole dish.
Vegetarian Option: Replace corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for a hearty, meatless alternative that packs a flavor punch.
Herb Infusion: Mixing in fresh herbs like dill or parsley can brighten the dish. Toss them in just before serving to retain their vibrant flavor.
Texture Twist: For a crunchier bite, toss in some roasted nuts or seeds. They bring an unexpected delight that contrasts wonderfully with the softer ingredients.
Different Cheese: Swap out Swiss for Gouda or Gruyère to add a distinctive twist. Each cheese brings its unique flavor that can elevate your Reuben experience.
Savory Additions: For a richer taste, add sliced pastrami or turkey alongside the corned beef, creating a personalized flavor explosion.
Flavorful Grain Bowls: Serve atop a bed of quinoa or brown rice instead of just vegetables for a filling, grain-based version that still holds true to that comforting vibe.

Tips for the Best Reuben Bowls

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients—especially for the corned beef and produce. This guarantees a flavor-packed result in your Reuben Bowls.
Dressing Balance: Don’t hesitate to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. Adding more horseradish can ramp up the spice level if you prefer a bolder kick.
Avoid Overcooking: When sautéing the cabbage, stop cooking when it’s still crisp-tender. This adds texture that complements the softer elements in the bowl, enhancing the overall experience.
Cheese Choice: Opt for freshly shredded Swiss cheese instead of pre-packaged for a creamier melt. You can even mix in other cheeses for a unique twist on your Reuben Bowls!
Customize Your Toppings: Make it your own! Consider adding sliced avocado or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor. Just remember not to overpower the beautiful balance of the ingredients.

How to Store and Freeze Reuben Bowls

Fridge: Store leftover Reuben Bowls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the corned beef and sautéed veggies in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the cabbage, as it can become mushy.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Assemble Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, assemble the Reuben Bowls just before serving, using freshly cooked and reheated components.

Reuben Bowls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best corned beef for my Reuben Bowls?
Absolutely! Look for corned beef that’s well marbled and has a bright pink color. Avoid cuts with dark spots or excessive fat. A point cut is usually more tender than a flat cut, so it’s a great choice for a flavorful outcome.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before drizzling it over your Reuben Bowls.

How should I store leftover Reuben Bowls?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again. This way, your veggies will stay crisp!

Can I freeze my Reuben Bowls?
Yes, but with a twist! You can freeze the corned beef and sautéed veggies in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. It’s best not to freeze the cabbage, as it tends to get mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a skillet.

What should I do if my cabbage gets too soft during cooking?
If the cabbage becomes too soft, try cooking it for a shorter time next time—just enough to get it crisp-tender. It’s all about finding that perfect balance, so taste as you go! If it does get too soft, you can still enjoy the dish; just add some extra crunch with fresh toppings like sliced radishes or more cornichon.

Can my pets eat leftover corned beef from the Reuben Bowls?
It’s best to be cautious! While corned beef isn’t toxic for dogs, it’s high in sodium and spices that may upset your pet’s stomach. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet before sharing any leftovers with your furry friends.