Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this Creamy Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese. This extraordinary pasta dish perfectly marries the classic flavors of a beloved Reuben sandwich with the rich, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. Featuring tender cellentani pasta, savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a luxurious, creamy sauce and crowned with crispy rye breadcrumbs, it’s a dish that promises pure delight in every bubbly bite. Baked to golden perfection, this Reuben Macaroni and Cheese offers the best of both worlds – a hearty, satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Discovering Your Next Favorite: The Ultimate Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese Recipe
Every home cook understands the delicate art of gauging a new recipe’s success. It’s often determined not by a complex critique, but by simple, heartfelt statements from family members. We’ve all been there: the hesitant “It’s fine,” which subtly signals that the dish won’t be missed. Then there’s the encouraging “It’s good! I’d eat this again,” indicating a potential spot in the dinner rotation. But there’s one phrase, a rare gem, that confirms you’ve truly hit it out of the park, a culinary masterpiece that demands an encore: “I want this for my birthday dinner!”
That’s precisely the enthusiastic reception this Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese received from my youngest daughter. Her declaration was an immediate seal of approval. The excitement was contagious; my son-in-law, eager to try it himself, messaged me later that day with his verdict: “I can absolutely see why she wants this for her birthday dinner – it’s seriously amazing!” These reactions confirmed what I already suspected: this Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese wasn’t just good; it was a bona fide winner, a dish destined for special occasions and cherished family meals. It perfectly encapsulates the essence of comfort food, elevated to an art form.
This recipe is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut, a brand I’ve loved my entire life. All opinions expressed here are genuinely my own.
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Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese: A Culinary Masterpiece of Comfort
When it comes to the ultimate comfort food, macaroni and cheese consistently reigns supreme, topping countless polls and heartwarming dinner tables. This universal appeal served as my inspiration when I set out to craft my annual comfort food recipe collaboration with Frank’s Kraut. Knowing the deep affection people have for pasta and cheese, I aimed to create something truly exceptional, something that would not only satisfy but also surprise and delight.
For those who have followed my culinary adventures, you know my penchant for “Reubenizing” just about anything. My website boasts a vibrant collection of Reuben-inspired dishes, transforming everyday meals into something spectacular. Yet, I realized with a gasp that a glaring omission existed in my extensive collection: a Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese! How could I have overlooked such an obvious, delicious fusion?
With a creative spark, I embarked on the journey to develop this unique Reuben pasta recipe. The concept was elegantly simple: take my cherished baked macaroni and cheese recipe, renowned for its creamy texture and rich flavor, and infuse it with all the iconic components of a traditional Reuben sandwich. This meant incorporating savory corned beef, the distinctive tang of sauerkraut, the nutty notes of Swiss cheese, and the unmistakable zest of Thousand Island dressing. To truly complete the experience, I even included a crispy rye breadcrumb topping, echoing the very bread upon which a classic Reuben is served. The result is a harmonious blend of two culinary legends, a comforting casserole that’s both familiar and exhilaratingly new, delivering a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Essential Ingredients for Your Reuben Macaroni & Cheese
Crafting this unforgettable Reuben Macaroni & Cheese requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving its rich, creamy texture and iconic Reuben flavor. The foundation of this dish lies in a decadent macaroni and cheese base, which includes the unique spiral of cellentani pasta, half-and-half for lusciousness, rich butter, tangy sour cream, velvety cream cheese, and eggs to bind it all together into a custardy dream.
To infuse it with the authentic taste of a Reuben, we add key components: tender, savory corned beef, the distinctively delicious Frank’s Kraut for its signature tang, generous amounts of Swiss cheese for its nutty melt, creamy Thousand Island dressing to tie all the flavors together, and finally, a crunchy rye bread topping to complete the experience. The combination of these elements creates a symphony of textures and tastes that perfectly captures the essence of a classic Reuben in a comforting pasta bake.
(You’ll find the comprehensive list of ingredients and detailed instructions at the very bottom of this post in the printable recipe card.)
Start by cooking your chosen pasta, ideally cellentani, until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the noodles retain a pleasant bite even after baking. Once drained, return the pasta to the pot and gently stir in the cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, and Provolone cheese, along with the half-and-half. Heat this mixture over a low flame, stirring continuously until all the cheeses are beautifully melted and form a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
For the corned beef, I recommend having your deli counter slice two thick pieces, about half a pound each, then cubing them at home for consistent texture. Of course, any leftover corned beef from a holiday meal works wonderfully here too! As for the sauerkraut, simply drain off the majority of its liquid. There’s no need to squeeze it excessively; a little moisture adds to the dish’s flavor. Once prepared, fold the Frank’s Kraut, cubed corned beef, and Thousand Island dressing into the cheesy pasta mixture. This step infuses the mac and cheese with the signature tangy and savory notes of a classic Reuben.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until smooth and fully combined. Gently melt a portion of the butter, then incorporate it into the egg mixture. Season this with freshly cracked black pepper and a touch of caraway seeds, which provide an authentic rye flavor. Finally, carefully fold this egg and butter mixture into your pasta, cheese, corned beef, and sauerkraut combination. This addition will help create a rich, custardy texture in your baked mac and cheese, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Now for the crowning glory: the rye bread crumb topping! Toast 3-4 slices of rye bread until lightly golden and crisp, then cube them. Place the cubed rye bread into a food processor along with the remaining butter and a handful of fresh parsley. Give it a few pulses until you achieve a rustic, coarse bread crumb consistency. This homemade topping will provide a wonderful buttery crunch and an extra layer of authentic Reuben flavor, taking your macaroni and cheese to new heights of deliciousness.
Once your mixture is fully prepared, spread it evenly into a 3-quart baking dish that has been lightly coated with non-stick spray. Bake the Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese, uncovered, in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 30 minutes. After this initial bake, remove the dish, sprinkle your delicious homemade rye bread crumbs generously over the top, and return it to the oven for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is hot and bubbly. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
Once removed from the oven, the most challenging part begins: waiting! Allow your baked Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese casserole to stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, preventing it from being too runny and ensuring that every scoop is perfectly creamy and cohesive. This rich, bubbly, and incredibly flavorful dish is a truly satisfying experience, marrying the hearty comfort of macaroni and cheese with the bold, beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich.
Just look at that golden crust and the creamy, irresistible interior! This isn’t just a macaroni and cheese; it’s a Reuben casserole like no other, brimming with all the robust, tangy, and savory flavors you adore. It’s truly a celebration of comfort food, elevated by the iconic taste profile of the Reuben sandwich.
Loved this Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese recipe get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you leave. That way, you can easily find it whenever you’re craving a hearty, comforting, and uniquely flavorful meal for your family and friends. Happy pinning!
Elevate Your Mac and Cheese Experience
While many children adore the boxed macaroni and cheese, I was an anomaly. Growing up, I could never quite embrace the powdered cheese, preferring my noodles simply dressed with butter. My appreciation for mac and cheese truly began when I discovered what I affectionately call “Adult Mac and Cheese” – sophisticated, flavorful versions that transcend the basic. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to explore and share elevated macaroni and cheese recipes, each offering a unique twist on this beloved dish.
Beyond this delicious Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese, I’ve shared other exceptional variations that are far from your childhood classic. Dive into the luxurious Alaskan Snow Crab Macaroni and Cheese for a truly decadent seafood experience. If you’re a fan of rich, hearty flavors, my Loaded Mac and Cheese, brimming with savory bacon and other delightful toppings, is an absolute must-try. And for those craving a comforting one-pan meal, the Chili Cheese Mac skillet offers a wonderfully flavorful and easy solution. These recipes demonstrate how versatile and exciting macaroni and cheese can be, transforming it from a simple side into a gourmet main course I’m always eager to enjoy.
Frank’s Kraut: The Pinnacle of Sauerkraut Excellence
My culinary partnership with Frank’s Kraut to develop innovative recipes has thrived for the past six years, but my devotion to their sauerkraut spans my entire lifetime. Growing up with Polish and German heritage, sauerkraut has always held a place of honor on our family table, a staple that grounded our meals and traditions. It wasn’t just a side dish; it was a connection to our roots, a flavor that felt like home.
As I matured, I came to realize that sauerkraut wasn’t merely delicious; it was remarkably beneficial for health. What many might not know is that sauerkraut is widely considered a superfood, offering a plethora of advantages that make it much more than just a tangy condiment. Its fermentation process unlocks a wealth of nutrients and beneficial compounds that contribute significantly to overall wellness, cementing its status as a valuable addition to any diet.
Unlocking the Health Benefits of Sauerkraut
One of sauerkraut’s most well-known and potent benefits is its incredible ability to boost the immune system. This humble fermented cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and live probiotics, making it a natural immune enhancer that has been utilized for centuries. The fermentation process is key, as it produces unique phytochemicals—beneficial by-products that actively support immune function.
These naturally occurring compounds work synergistically to strengthen the body’s defenses, leading to a noticeable decrease in a range of health issues. A robust immune system, supported by the nutrients in sauerkraut, can help ward off common ailments like the cold and flu, improve skin health, aid in weight management, and contribute to healthier blood. Especially as we approach cold and flu season, incorporating a time-tested immune system booster like sauerkraut into your diet is a smart and delicious strategy for staying healthy. It’s not just a tasty addition to your Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese; it’s a vibrant, nutritious superfood with genuine health-promoting properties.
Exploring More Delicious Sauerkraut Pasta Recipes
Beyond the delightful Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese, my kitchen has seen countless creations featuring the versatile Frank’s Kraut. There’s truly a sauerkraut pasta recipe for every palate and occasion, showcasing the incredible adaptability of this flavorful ingredient.
For a taste of tradition, try the hearty and meatless Polish Noodles & Sauerkraut casserole, also known as Kluski Kapusta Kiszona or Polish Haluski. This comforting dish combines kluski noodles, onions, sauerkraut, and celery, fried in butter and then baked to golden perfection. And for a unique twist on a classic cold remedy, my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Sauerkraut takes grandma’s advice to a new level. We all know chicken soup helps with colds, but imagine the enhanced healing power when you add a superfood like sauerkraut!
If you’re looking for something creamy and satisfying, my Creamy Kraut & Mushroom Noodles, whether made on the stovetop or even on the grill, is an exquisite choice, especially when served alongside savory brats. It’s a fantastic recipe for camping trips or casual weeknight dinners. And, of course, no discussion of sauerkraut and comfort food would be complete without mentioning my classic Traditional Reuben Casserole, which captures all the flavors of the iconic sandwich in an easy-to-bake dish. Each of these recipes highlights the distinctive and delicious contribution sauerkraut brings to pasta, transforming simple meals into something truly special.
Stay connected with Frank’s Kraut by visiting their website and following them on social media. You’ll discover a wealth of delicious recipes and culinary inspiration throughout the year!
Join their vibrant community on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all things sauerkraut!
I can hardly wait for you to try this amazing dish! Let’s dive into the recipe for this extraordinary Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese! 
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Print Recipe
Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese
Equipment
- Franks Kraut, Shredded, Canned, 14-Ounce (Pack of 24)
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
- Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Classic Red Enamel Dutch Oven (Island Spice Red)
- KitchenAid Renewed 3.5-Cup Food Chopper
Ingredients
- 1 1 pound box cellentani pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 16 ounces Swiss cheese shredded
- 6 ounces Provolone cheese shredded
- 6 large eggs lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 stick 8 Tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seed
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 pound corned beef cubed
- 1 cup Frank’s Kraut drained
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 4 small slices Rye bread toasted
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Spray a 3-quart baking dish with non-stick spray; set aside.
- In a large pot, cook pasta according to package directions just until al dente; drain well. Return pasta to the pot. Stir in half-and-half, cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, and shredded Provolone cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until all the cheese is melted and a smooth sauce forms.
- Melt 6 tablespoons of butter. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs together with the sour cream until thoroughly combined. Add the melted butter to the egg mixture and mix well. Stir in the caraway seeds and fresh ground black pepper.
- Cube the corned beef into small, bite-sized pieces. Drain the liquid from the sauerkraut. Add both the cubed corned beef and drained sauerkraut, along with the Thousand Island dressing, into the cheesy pasta mixture in the pot.
- Gently fold the egg mixture into the pasta mixture in the pot, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Spread the entire mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- While the pasta bakes, prepare the bread crumb topping: Add the cubed toasted rye bread, fresh parsley, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to a food processor. Pulse until coarse bread crumbs are achieved.
- After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the rye bread crumb mixture generously over the top of the pasta. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is hot and bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.