Reuben Meatloaf with Swiss Cheese Sauce: A Hearty Twist on a Classic Sandwich

Imagine all the beloved flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, masterfully transformed into a comforting, savory meatloaf. This innovative Reuben Meatloaf recipe brings together the tangy zest of sauerkraut, the rich taste of corned beef, and the distinctive aroma of rye, all bound in a juicy meatloaf. Crowned with a luxurious Swiss cheese sauce, it’s an unforgettable meal that promises to become a cherished family favorite. Forget the usual weeknight dinner; this easy-to-prepare dish offers a unique culinary adventure, delivering satisfying flavors in every moist, tender slice.

If you’re searching for the best meatloaf recipe you’ve encountered in years, look no further. This Reuben Meatloaf embodies everything wonderful about comfort food while introducing a sophisticated flavor profile that will captivate your palate. The secret to its incredible moistness and depth of flavor lies in a surprising yet brilliant ingredient: sauerkraut. Often, cooks rely on sautéed vegetables to achieve a tender texture in meatloaf, but here, the sauerkraut effortlessly performs this role, infusing the dish with its signature tang and keeping the meatloaf wonderfully juicy from the inside out. Combined with savory corned beef, aromatic rye breadcrumbs, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, each bite delivers the unmistakable essence of a classic Reuben sandwich. It’s an ideal, effortless dinner solution, especially fitting for special occasions like St. Patrick’s Day, where its Irish-American heritage truly shines.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Reuben Meatloaf Recipe

The appeal of this easy Reuben Meatloaf extends far beyond its unique taste. You’ll adore the sheer simplicity and efficiency of this recipe. Designed for convenience, it comes together with minimal fuss and is ready to grace your dinner table in just over an hour. This makes it an impeccable choice for bustling weeknights when time is precious, yet you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal. Moreover, for those moments when only the most comforting food will do, this meatloaf steps up to the plate. And that irresistible, creamy Swiss cheese sauce? It elevates the entire dish, transforming a simple meatloaf into a gourmet experience. It truly is the crowning glory that makes this recipe undeniably special.

Are you a devoted fan of meatloaf, always seeking innovative variations? Then you absolutely must explore other delightful meatloaf recipes such as our crowd-pleasing Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, the comforting Mom’s Pork Sausage Meatloaf, the inventive Stuffed Pepper Meatloaf, and the zesty Taco Meatloaf. Each offers a distinct flavor profile, ensuring there’s a meatloaf for every mood and occasion.

This post is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut, a brand whose delicious sauerkraut has held a special place in my kitchen and heart for many years. All opinions expressed are genuinely my own.

Celebrating Reuben Madness Month

March isn’t just for basketball madness; for Frank’s Kraut and An Affair from the Heart, it’s a month-long celebration of all things Reuben: it’s Reuben Madness! This festive tradition is dedicated to honoring the iconic Reuben sandwich by taking its distinct flavors and “Reubenizing” an array of incredible recipes. From savory appetizers to hearty main courses, we embrace the challenge of infusing that classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing into innovative dishes. The “madness” playfully alludes to both the popular March sporting event and our undeniable, madly-in-love devotion to the Reuben flavor profile. It’s a time for culinary creativity and a tribute to one of America’s most beloved sandwiches. Discover how to Reubenize everything yourself and join the celebration!

Unraveling the Origins of the Original Reuben Sandwich

For those unfamiliar with its delicious components, an original Reuben is a culinary masterpiece featuring layers of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and a generous dollop of Thousand Island Dressing, all grilled between slices of crisp rye bread. If you’ve never had the pleasure, I highly recommend trying my definitive Traditional Reuben Sandwich recipe. Curious to delve deeper into the fascinating world of this iconic dish? My comprehensive article, Everything About the Reuben Sandwich & How to Reubenize Everything, is your ultimate guide, revealing all you need to know about its history, variations, and how to infuse its flavors into countless other dishes.

It’s a delightful irony that the Reuben sandwich is said to have originated right in my hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, making its debut at the Blackstone Hotel in 1920. From its humble beginnings, the Reuben has soared in popularity, and today, you can find countless variations on menus across the globe. Its widespread appeal is such that March 14th has even been designated as “National Reuben Day,” a testament to its enduring legacy and beloved status in American cuisine. This rich history and flavor profile make it the perfect inspiration for our exceptional meatloaf.

Essential Ingredients for Your Reuben Meatloaf

Crafting the perfect Reuben Meatloaf begins with selecting high-quality ingredients that capture the authentic essence of the classic sandwich. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this culinary dream to life:

• Lean Ground Beef: The foundation of any great meatloaf. I always opt for lean ground beef to ensure a hearty, yet not overly greasy, texture. This provides a robust base that beautifully complements the other strong flavors.
• Corned Beef: This is a non-negotiable for true Reuben flavor. You’ll need it finely chopped or ground. Whether you use fresh deli corned beef, savory leftovers from a holiday meal, or convenient canned corned beef, ensure it’s processed finely to integrate seamlessly into the loaf.
• Sauerkraut: The star ingredient for moisture and tang! I consistently rely on Frank’s Kraut because its crisp texture and perfectly balanced acidity are simply unmatched, making it the best choice for this recipe.
• Rye Bread Crumbs: These are crucial for that authentic rye flavor. While some grocery stores might carry them, I highly recommend making your own fresh breadcrumbs for superior taste and texture. Simply toast 4 slices of good quality rye bread (marbled rye works wonderfully) and pulse them in a food processor until fine. This small step makes a significant difference.
• Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy, tangy dressing binds the flavors and adds a characteristic sweetness. Use your preferred brand, or elevate the dish even further by making my Homemade Thousand Island Dressing. For a slightly different kick, Russian salad dressing can be a fantastic substitute.
• Egg: Just one large egg is needed. It acts as a vital binder, holding the meatloaf ingredients together and contributing to a tender texture.

And for that luscious Swiss Cheese Sauce:

• Butter: Either salted or unsalted butter will work perfectly to form the base of our roux.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating a smooth, thick, and velvety cheese sauce.
• Milk: For a rich and creamy sauce, whole milk is ideal. However, half and half or even heavy cream can be used for an extra decadent touch.
• Swiss Cheese: The quintessential cheese for a Reuben. I strongly encourage you to grate your own cheese for the best melting consistency and flavor, though pre-shredded Swiss will do in a pinch.
• Fresh Parsley: A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a touch of fresh, herbaceous flavor as a garnish.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Reuben Meatloaf with Swiss Cheese Sauce

Making this Reuben Meatloaf is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping meal:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While the oven heats, lightly spray a standard loaf pan with a non-stick cooking spray, ensuring your meatloaf will release easily once baked.

Preparing the Meatloaf Base

For the rye breadcrumbs, I took four slices of flavorful marbled rye bread and toasted them to a light golden brown. Once cooled slightly, I broke them into pieces and added them to my food processor, pulsing until finely ground into crumbs. If you happen to have homemade rye croutons on hand, those would also work wonderfully when ground.

When I prepared this particular recipe, I used high-quality deli corned beef for its excellent flavor. I placed the corned beef into the food processor and chopped it very finely until it had an almost ground consistency. Next, I added the sauerkraut to the food processor with the corned beef, giving them a quick pulse together to ensure they were well combined and evenly distributed.

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your lean ground beef, the finely chopped corned beef and sauerkraut mixture, the rye bread crumbs, Thousand Island dressing, and the egg. Use your hands to gently, but thoroughly, mix all the ingredients until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.

Forming and Baking the Loaf

Once the ingredients are well mixed, gently form the mixture into an even loaf shape. Carefully transfer it into your prepared loaf pan. Cover the loaf pan with a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This helps to keep the meatloaf moist during the initial baking phase.

Bake: Place the covered loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. After 60 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees F (71 degrees Celsius) when measured with a reliable meat thermometer. It’s important to note that due to the corned beef content, this meatloaf may appear quite pink internally even when fully cooked. Relying on a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure it’s safely done.

Creating the Velvety Swiss Cheese Sauce

Prepare Sauce: While your meatloaf is baking, prepare the rich Swiss cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about one minute until a smooth paste, or roux, forms. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring to continuously stir as the mixture heats and thickens. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and free of any lumps. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until it has completely melted and the sauce is wonderfully smooth and creamy.

Serving Your Masterpiece

Serve: Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the loaf pan. For ease of slicing and presentation, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before transferring it to a beautiful serving platter.

Generously pour the warm, velvety Swiss cheese sauce over the top of the sliced meatloaf. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite!

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Adore this amazing REUBEN MEATLOAF recipe? Don’t let it get lost in your bookmarks! Pin it directly to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever that Reuben craving strikes!

Common Questions About Meatloaf (FAQs)

Meatloaf, a timeless classic, has graced dinner tables for centuries. Ever wondered about its origins or how to perfect this beloved dish? Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions.

The Rich History of Meatloaf

Tracing the precise invention of meatloaf is challenging, but historical records suggest its existence as early as the fifth century. An ancient Roman cookbook, “Apicius,” contains a recipe for a concoction of chopped meat, bread, and wine, shaped into patties—a clear precursor to our modern meatloaf. The 1800s brought about a revolution with the invention of the meat grinder, making it easier to utilize meat trimmings and paving the way for the popularization of ground meat dishes. During America’s Great Depression, meatloaf became a culinary staple, born out of necessity. It was an economical way to stretch limited food resources, with some recipes incorporating up to 50% breadcrumbs to ensure a single pound of meat could feed a large family. To this day, meatloaf remains a popular and budget-friendly option for home cooks looking to create satisfying meals.

Achieving the Perfect Moist and Tender Meatloaf

The quest for a moist and tender meatloaf is universal, and there are several effective strategies to achieve it. Incorporating vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, and peppers, often sautéed in butter or oil beforehand, helps them release their moisture into the meat mixture. Alternatively, as showcased in this recipe, sauerkraut is an exceptional choice. Its inherent moisture, derived from its brine, infuses the meatloaf with unparalleled juiciness and flavor. Breadcrumbs play a dual role: they absorb and retain precious juices, contributing significantly to a moister loaf. Adding a splash of milk to the breadcrumbs can further enhance this moisture retention. The fat content of your ground meat is also crucial; an 80% meat to 20% fat ratio is generally recommended for optimum moisture without becoming overly greasy. While a 70% to 30% ratio might sound more indulgent, it often results in a greasy rather than juicy loaf. Lastly, a good meatloaf sauce, like our luscious Swiss cheese sauce, adds an external layer of moisture and flavor. Traditional glazes such as ketchup or BBQ sauce also contribute to a moist top. Remember, avoid overmixing your meatloaf, cook it “low and slow,” and always allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure the most tender and juicy results.

Covered or Uncovered: How to Bake Meatloaf

The decision of whether to bake your meatloaf covered or uncovered largely depends on your desired outcome and preference. If your meatloaf is topped with a glaze or a sauce, like our Swiss cheese sauce, baking it uncovered is often recommended to allow the topping to develop a delicious crust and color. However, if you’re concerned about the meatloaf drying out or browning too much on top, you can certainly cover it with foil or parchment paper for the initial part of the baking process, perhaps for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. A general guideline is to bake meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1 hour, or until its internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a reliable meat thermometer. As mentioned earlier, this specific Reuben meatloaf will retain a pinkish hue due to the corned beef, so relying on an accurate thermometer is absolutely essential for food safety.

Customizing Your Reuben Meatloaf: Substitutions and Variations

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to suit your taste or what you have on hand. This Reuben Meatloaf is no exception. Here are some thoughtful substitutions and variations to consider:

• Ground Beef Alternatives: For a slightly lighter or healthier version, you can easily substitute the lean ground beef with ground chicken or ground turkey. While the flavor profile will be a little different, the essence of the Reuben will still shine through, especially with the corned beef and sauerkraut.
• Thousand Island Dressing Swap: If you’re looking for a slightly spicier kick, Russian Dressing is an excellent alternative to Thousand Island. Both dressings share a mayonnaise-ketchup base, but Russian dressing is typically enhanced with robust additions like Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, horseradish, paprika, and onion powder, offering a more piquant flavor.
• Rye Bread Crumbs: Should rye bread crumbs prove elusive at your local grocery store, don’t fret! You can use any type of plain bread crumbs. To replicate some of that distinctive rye flavor, simply add a teaspoon or two of caraway seeds to your regular bread crumbs before incorporating them into the meatloaf mixture.
• Cheese Varieties: While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses in the sauce or mixed into the meatloaf. Provolone or a mild cheddar could offer interesting variations.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Reuben Meatloaf

To ensure your Reuben Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, keep these handy tips and tricks in mind:

• Loaf Pan Alternatives: No dedicated loaf pan? No problem! Simply form your meat mixture into a rustic loaf shape on a baking sheet or in a shallow baking dish. Just remember to generously spray your chosen dish with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
• Storage and Leftovers: Cooked meatloaf makes fantastic leftovers! Store any remaining meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, cooked meatloaf freezes beautifully for 3-4 months. Simply wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Leftover Reuben Meatloaf is especially delicious served cold or warm in a sandwich!
• Serving Suggestions: Wondering what to serve alongside your Reuben Meatloaf? With our meatloaf, I often steam some baby red potatoes and fresh broccoli for a simple, balanced meal. Other excellent alternatives include creamy Loaded Mashed Potatoes, roasted Brussels Sprouts, or a lighter Cauliflower Mash. A crisp green salad would also provide a lovely contrast.

Explore More Reuben-Inspired Delights

My passion for all things Reuben knows no bounds! If you’ve fallen in love with the flavors of this meatloaf, you absolutely must try these other inventive Reuben recipes that celebrate this iconic taste:

• Reuben Pizza (pictured above): A fun and flavorful take on pizza night.
• Reuben Burger: The ultimate gourmet burger experience.
• Cream of Reuben Soup: A comforting and hearty soup, perfect for chilly days.
• Reuben Breakfast Casserole: Start your day with these incredible flavors.
• Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese: A decadent and cheesy twist on a classic.
• The Rachel (Turkey Reuben): A lighter, yet equally delicious, alternative to the traditional corned beef Reuben.

Embracing the Tang: My Passion for Sauerkraut

As someone with a rich Polish and German heritage, my admiration for kraut, or sauerkraut as many prefer to call it, runs deep. These terms are, in fact, synonymous, both derived from the German word for cabbage or herb. Sauerkraut is more than just a condiment; it’s a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can transform an array of dishes.

Its culinary applications are incredibly diverse, from adding a zesty kick to comforting soups and vibrant salads, to starring in hearty entrees and delectable appetizers. Surprisingly, it even makes an appearance in unique desserts! As you can tell, I am a truly dedicated fan, boasting a treasure trove of kraut recipes.

Before we delve into the full recipe, I extend a heartfelt and HUGE thank you to Frank’s Kraut for their exceptional product that inspires so many of my creations!

Here are a few more scrumptious recipes I’ve crafted featuring Frank’s Kraut:

Smoked Polish Sausage & Sauerkraut – Hot Reuben Dip – Sauerkraut, Bratwurst & Potato Soup

Love Kraut Like We Do?

Discover an abundance of additional sauerkraut recipes by visiting FranksKraut.com. Stay connected and explore all the delicious content they share on their social media channels: Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Twitter.

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Journey

For those moments when you crave the distinctive, satisfying flavors of a Reuben, but in a comforting and hearty format, this Reuben Meatloaf is your ideal culinary solution. With its perfect blend of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and a luscious Swiss cheese sauce, it transforms a classic sandwich into an extraordinary main course. Serve it alongside a couple of light, complementary side dishes, and you’ll have a perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying meal that will impress everyone at your table. Trust me, once you experience the unique deliciousness of this recipe, you’ll be eager to add this exceptional Reuben Meatloaf to your cherished family cookbook, revisiting it for many years to come.