Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dip combines savory, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it a favorite at parties and gatherings.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dip ready in under an hour.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rye bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 6 ounces deli corned beef, chopped
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Creamy Base: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Thousand Island dressing until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained sauerkraut, chopped corned beef, and 1½ cups of shredded Swiss cheese to the creamy mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into a 1½-quart baking dish that has been lightly greased.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the dip is hot and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh chives over the dip before serving. Enjoy with slices of rye bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 12 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 40 minutes.
Variations
- Slow Cooker Method: Assemble the dip in a slow cooker and cook on high for 2 to 2½ hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours, until heated through.
- Add-ons: Incorporate diced onions, chopped pickles.
- Cheese Options: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can mix in some shredded mozzarella for a different melt and taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I make Reuben Dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I use leftover corned beef for this dip?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef works wonderfully in this recipe, adding a personal touch to the dip.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this dip?
While traditional Reuben Dip includes corned beef, you can substitute it with chopped mushrooms or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative.
4. Can I freeze Reuben Dip?
It’s not recommended to freeze Reuben Dip, as the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
5. What can I serve with Reuben Dip?
Serve with toasted rye bread slices, crackers, pretzel chips, celery sticks, or carrot sticks for a variety of dipping options.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
7. How do I make this dip spicier?
Add a teaspoon of horseradish or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture to give the dip an extra kick.
8. Can I make this dip in a bread bowl?
Yes, serving the dip in a hollowed-out rye bread bowl adds a fun touch and extra flavor. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the dip.
9. How can I make the dip lighter?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise, and consider omitting the cheese topping for a lighter version.
10. Can I use sauerkraut from a can?
Fresh sauerkraut is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but canned sauerkraut can be used if drained and squeezed well to remove excess moisture.
Conclusion
Classic Reuben Dip is a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, making it a must-try at your next gathering. Its creamy texture and rich taste are sure to satisfy both Reuben enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Enjoy crafting this crowd-pleaser!
Print
Classic Reuben Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Classic Reuben Dip is a warm, creamy appetizer that brings the savory flavors of a Reuben sandwich in dip form. With a rich blend of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, this easy-to-make dip is perfect for parties, game days, or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Serve it with rye bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for the ultimate snack experience.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 6 ounces deli corned beef, chopped
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Creamy Base: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Thousand Island dressing until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained sauerkraut, chopped corned beef, and shredded Swiss cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 1½-quart baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the dip is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional—sprinkle chopped fresh chives over the dip before serving. Serve with rye bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Notes
- For a slow cooker version, assemble the dip in the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-2½ hours or on low for 3-4 hours until heated through.
- Customize the dip by adding diced onions, chopped pickles
- Feel free to swap Swiss cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer a different taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
