Reuben Dip Recipe

You’ll mix, you’ll layer, and you’ll transform classic Reuben ingredients into an irresistible party dip. This savory creation combines diced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese with a creamy base of softened cream cheese and Russian dressing. The addition of caraway seeds captures that distinctive rye bread flavor without the bulk. While traditional Reuben sandwiches might be messy to serve at gatherings, this warm, bubbling dip offers the perfect solution for your next social event.

Overview

• Combine 8 oz cream cheese, Russian dressing, chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese for a classic Reuben-inspired dip.
• Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly, creating a warm, creamy appetizer perfect for gatherings.
• Serve with rye bread or crackers to capture authentic Reuben sandwich flavors in a shareable dip format.
• Mix in caraway seeds and garlic powder to enhance the traditional rye bread taste and savory depth.
• Let dip stand for 5 minutes after baking to achieve optimal texture before serving at parties or events.

Recipe

This indulgent dip transforms a beloved sandwich into a crowd-pleasing appetizer, combining the rich flavors of corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut. The creamy base of cream cheese and Russian dressing creates a smooth, dippable consistency that perfectly carries these classic Reuben components.

When baked until golden and bubbly, this warm dip delivers all the satisfaction of a traditional Reuben sandwich in every scoop. The caraway seeds add an authentic rye bread note, while the garlic powder and black pepper enhance the overall flavor profile, making it an irresistible addition to any gathering.

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Russian dressing
• 1/2 pound corned beef, chopped
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Mix softened cream cheese and Russian dressing until smooth
3. Fold in chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, and 1½ cups Swiss cheese
4. Add sour cream, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and black pepper
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish
6. Top with remaining Swiss cheese
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown
8. Let stand 5 minutes before serving
9. Serve with rye bread, crackers, or vegetables

Cooking Steps

To create this Reuben dip, you’ll start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven to 350°F while letting the cream cheese soften at room temperature.

Next, you’ll blend the cream cheese with Russian dressing until silky smooth, then fold in your chopped corned beef, well-drained sauerkraut, and 1½ cups of Swiss cheese until evenly distributed.

Finally, you’ll transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with the remaining Swiss cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly, allowing it to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 1. Gather Ingredients and Preheat

Before starting this delicious Reuben dip, gather all ingredients on your counter and preheat your oven to 350°F. You’ll need softened cream cheese, Russian dressing, chopped corned beef, well-drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, sour cream, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and black pepper.

While your oven preheats, set out your cream cheese to reach room temperature if you haven’t already – this will facilitate smooth mixing. Take time to properly drain your sauerkraut by pressing it in a fine-mesh strainer or between paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Measure your ingredients precisely, keeping the Swiss cheese divided into two portions: 1½ cups for mixing into the dip and ½ cup for the golden-brown top layer you’ll create later.

Step 2. Mix Cream Cheese Until Smooth

Starting with your softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl, blend it with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and free of lumps. You’ll want your cream cheese at room temperature for easy mixing – this typically takes about 30 minutes on the counter before you begin.

Once the cream cheese reaches a silky consistency, add the Russian dressing and continue mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture should be uniform in color and texture, with no streaks remaining. If you notice any stubborn lumps, press them against the side of the bowl with a rubber spatula and continue mixing. This step creates the creamy base that’ll hold all your other ingredients together, so take your time to achieve that perfect smooth texture.

Step 3. Fold in Meat and Sauerkraut

The next essential steps involve incorporating your chopped corned beef and well-drained sauerkraut into the cream cheese mixture. Before you begin, guarantee sauerkraut is well drained by pressing it gently in a fine-mesh strainer to remove excess moisture. This prevents your dip from becoming watery during baking.

Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the chopped corned beef into your softened cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed. Next, add the drained sauerkraut, incorporating it with careful folding motions to maintain the texture. For best results, allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing – this safeguards smoother blending and prevents lumps. Continue folding until all ingredients are well combined but not overmixed. The mixture should look marbled with distinct pieces of meat and sauerkraut visible throughout.

Step 4. Add Toppings and Bake

Once your base mixture is thoroughly combined, transfer it to a greased 2-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Swiss cheese across the top, creating a blanket that’ll melt into a golden crust. If you’d like, add a light dusting of extra caraway seeds for authentic rye flavor.

Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese turns golden brown and the edges bubble. For baking variations, you can use individual ramekins for personal portions or a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours. Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with classic dipping options like rye toast points, pumpernickel chunks, or pretzel crisps. For a lighter choice, offer carrot sticks and celery.

Step 5. Let Cool Before Serving

Fresh from the oven, your Reuben dip needs a pivotal 5-minute resting period to achieve its ideal texture and prevent burnt tongues. During this time, the molten Swiss cheese will set slightly while still maintaining its gooey consistency, and the flavors of the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing will meld together perfectly.

Once the dip has cooled slightly, serve it alongside toasted rye bread crostini, which authentically mirrors the traditional sandwich experience. You’ll also find that crisp crackers, pretzel chips, or fresh vegetable crudités make excellent dipping vessels.

For a picture-perfect presentation, sprinkle additional caraway seeds on top and garnish with a small pile of extra sauerkraut in the corner of your serving dish. Your fellow Reuben enthusiasts will appreciate these thoughtful serving touches.

Top Tips

Making perfect Reuben dip relies on several key techniques that enhance both texture and flavor. You’ll get the best results by bringing your cream cheese to room temperature before mixing, as this creates a smoother consistency.

When draining your sauerkraut, press it firmly against a fine-mesh strainer to remove excess moisture that could make your dip watery.

For proper storage, transfer any leftover dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve again, reheat small portions in the microwave at 50% power.

Your ideal serving suggestions include toasted rye bread triangles, sturdy crackers, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots. Keep the dip warm during parties by using a small slow cooker on the “warm” setting.

Nutritional Guide

Nutritional Information per 1/4 cup serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	285
Total Fat	23g
Protein	14g
Carbohydrates	6g
Sodium	680mg
Fiber	1g
Cholesterol	75mg

Additional Nutritional Notes:

• Rich in protein from corned beef and Swiss cheese
• Contains calcium from dairy ingredients
• Moderate in carbohydrates, suitable for low-carb diets
• High in sodium due to corned beef and sauerkraut
• Good source of probiotics from sauerkraut

Disclaimer: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands and products used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. These figures are estimates and should be used as a general guide only.

Final Thoughts

This classic Reuben dip delivers three key advantages that make it a standout appetizer: it’s easily customizable with ingredient substitutions, can be prepared ahead for convenience, and transforms well-loved sandwich flavors into a shareable format.

You’ll appreciate the ease of preparation, whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or contributing to a potluck. The crowd-pleasing potential makes it an ideal choice for game days, holiday parties, or family reunions. Try swapping turkey for corned beef, adjusting cheese quantities, or experimenting with different dressings to match your guests’ preferences.

When you serve this warm, creamy dip alongside crispy rye crostini, you’re not just offering an appetizer – you’re sharing a beloved comfort food that brings people together through familiar flavors and communal dining.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can This Dip Be Made in a Slow Cooker Instead of Baked?

You’ll love how this dip sizzles and melts in your slow cooker! Set it on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until steamy hot. Keep it warm for serving by switching to the warm setting.

What’s a Good Substitute for Russian Dressing if I Can’t Find It?

You can use Thousand Island dressing as a direct substitute, or make your own Russian dressing by mixing mayonnaise and ketchup with a bit of horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and pickle relish until well combined.

How Spicy Is This Dip on a Scale of 1-10?

Cool as a cucumber, you’ll find this dip’s spice level depends on personal preference, but it’s generally mild to medium (2-4/10). The Russian dressing adds warmth without setting your taste buds on fire.

Can I Freeze This Dip for Later Use?

You can freeze this dip in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat until bubbly for the best texture.

What Other Meats Can I Use Instead of Corned Beef?

While 75% of Reuben dip lovers use traditional corned beef, you’ll get equally delicious results using thinly sliced pastrami instead of corned beef. Smoked turkey as a substitute offers a lighter, less salty option.