The Reuben Crescent Bake is a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, combining the savory flavors of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing in a warm, flaky crescent roll crust. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or even a fun appetizer for game day. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, the Reuben Crescent Bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Reubens or just looking for a new way to enjoy these iconic ingredients, this recipe is a must-try.
### Recipe:
The Reuben Crescent Bake takes the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich and transforms them into a comforting, oven-baked dish. Layers of tender beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty Thousand Island dressing are encased in a golden, flaky crescent roll crust. The optional addition of caraway seeds adds a subtle hint of rye bread flavor, tying the dish back to its sandwich origins. This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
### Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to make the Reuben Crescent Bake:
– **2 cans crescent roll dough**: These will form the base and top crust of the bake.
– **1 lb cooked beef, sliced or shredded**: Corned beef or pastrami works best, but you can use any leftover cooked beef.
– **8 slices Swiss cheese**: This classic Reuben ingredient adds a creamy, nutty flavor.
– **1 cup sauerkraut, drained well**: Be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid to prevent the bake from becoming soggy.
– **1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing**: This tangy, slightly sweet dressing ties all the flavors together.
– **1 egg, beaten**: This will be used to create a golden, shiny crust on top of the bake.
– **1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)**: These add a subtle rye-like flavor, reminiscent of traditional Reuben sandwiches.
### Directions/Instructions:
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Reuben Crescent Bake:
1. **Preheat the oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the bake cooks evenly and the crescent roll crust turns golden brown.
2. **Prepare the baking dish**: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. This prevents the bake from sticking to the dish.
3. **Layer the crescent roll dough**: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pinch together any seams to create a solid base.
4. **Add the beef**: Spread the cooked beef evenly over the crescent roll dough. If using sliced beef, arrange the slices in a single layer. If using shredded beef, distribute it evenly.
5. **Layer the Swiss cheese**: Place the Swiss cheese slices over the beef, covering the entire surface. You can tear the slices if needed to ensure even coverage.
6. **Add the sauerkraut**: Spread the well-drained sauerkraut evenly over the cheese layer. Be sure to press it down gently to create a compact layer.
7. **Drizzle the dressing**: Spoon the Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon or a spatula.
8. **Top with the second can of crescent roll dough**: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the top of the bake. Pinch together any seams and press the edges to seal the bake.
9. **Brush with egg wash**: In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork until smooth. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top of the crescent roll dough with the egg wash. This will give the bake a beautiful golden crust.
10. **Sprinkle with caraway seeds (optional)**: If using, sprinkle the caraway seeds evenly over the top of the bake for added flavor.
11. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent roll crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
12. **Cool and serve**: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
### FAQ:
**1. Can I use a different type of cheese?**
Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with another mild, melty cheese like provolone or mozzarella. However, Swiss cheese is traditional for a Reuben and provides the best flavor.
**2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
Yes, you can assemble the bake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add the egg wash and caraway seeds right before baking.
**3. Can I use homemade Thousand Island dressing?**
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dressing, feel free to use your favorite recipe. Store-bought dressing works just as well for convenience.
**4. How do I store leftovers?**
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
**5. Can I freeze the Reuben Crescent Bake?**
Yes, you can freeze the baked dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
**6. Can I use a different type of meat?**
While corned beef or pastrami is traditional, you can experiment with other meats like turkey or ham for a different twist.
### Conclusion:
The Reuben Crescent Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich to your dinner table in a fun, new way. With its flaky crescent roll crust, savory beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese, this bake is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family or guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable to your preferences. So why not give it a try? Whip up a Reuben Crescent Bake today and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!