Reuben Dip Recipe (with Video)

Reuben Dip Recipe: If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich—packed with corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing—you’re going to fall in love with this warm, melty, crowd-pleasing Reuben dip. It’s the kind of dish that gets wiped clean at every game night, party, or family gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just diving into homemade dips, this guide will walk you through every flavorful step to make the best Reuben dip ever.

What is Reuben Dip?

Reuben dip is a creamy, cheesy, savory hot dip inspired by the famous Reuben sandwich. Imagine everything you love about the sandwich—shredded corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing—all baked into one bubbly, gooey dip. It’s essentially the sandwich deconstructed into a dip format, making it perfect for dipping crackers, rye bread, or pretzel chips. The key here is the rich blend of textures and the signature zing from the sauerkraut and dressing. This dip is served hot and gooey, usually straight from the oven, and it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

You can whip it up in under 30 minutes and tweak it to your liking with different cheeses or seasonings. It’s versatile, bold in flavor, and practically addictive—just like the sandwich it’s based on.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall for this Reuben dip. For starters, it’s an absolute flavor bomb. Each bite is a combination of salty, creamy, cheesy, and tangy goodness. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients—most of which you might already have in your fridge. Plus, it’s a total showstopper for parties.

Here’s why it stands out:

Quick and easy: Minimal prep time, ready in 30 minutes or less.
Make-ahead friendly: You can prep it earlier and bake just before serving.
Customizable: Add jalapeños for heat, switch up the cheeses, or serve it cold.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for game days, holidays, or potlucks.
Delicious leftovers: If you’re lucky enough to have any.

If you’re tired of serving the same boring dips, this Reuben dip is your ticket to something uniquely satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a detailed look at the core ingredients that make this dip so delicious:

Corned Beef (1 to 1½ cups, chopped or shredded): You can use deli-style slices or leftover cooked corned beef. The salty, savory beef is essential for giving the dip its meaty richness.
Sauerkraut (1 cup, drained and patted dry): Provides that signature tang and crunch. Be sure to dry it properly to avoid a watery dip.
Swiss Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Adds a nutty, creamy flavor that melts beautifully. You can substitute with Gruyère if you want a stronger cheese taste.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy base that holds everything together. It also balances the tartness of the sauerkraut.
Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds smooth texture and a slight tang to complement the other flavors.
Thousand Island Dressing (½ cup): Brings the classic Reuben sandwich vibe to the dip. Russian dressing works well too.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp) and Onion Powder (½ tsp): Boost the flavor profile subtly but effectively.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Want to elevate the flavor? Try these:

Dill Pickles or Pickle Juice (1–2 tbsp chopped or a splash): For extra zing.
Caraway Seeds (¼ tsp): Bring out that traditional rye bread flavor.
Grated Parmesan (¼ cup): For a sharper cheese layer on top.
Chopped Green Onions or Chives: For color and fresh bite.

Tools and Equipment Required

Make sure you have these kitchen essentials ready before you begin:

Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Baking Dish (8×8 or 9×9 inch): Ideal size for even baking.
Spatula or Spoon: For stirring and spreading the dip.
Oven or Slow Cooker: Depending on your cooking method.
Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Reuben Dip

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Gather your key ingredients — chopped corned beef, sauerkraut (well-drained), cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature so it blends easily.

Step 2: Mixing the Dip Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and a portion of the Swiss cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy. This forms the rich, tangy base that gives Reuben dip its signature flavor.

Step 3: Layering the Dip

Spread the creamy base evenly in a baking dish. Add the chopped corned beef and sauerkraut on top, then sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese as the final layer. This layering gives you that perfect cheesy-pickle balance in every bite.

Step 4: Baking the Dip

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dip uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The aroma will make everyone hover near the oven—fair warning!

Step 5: Final Touches and Garnish

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve warm with toasted rye bread, crackers, or pita chips. Creamy, cheesy, tangy perfection—Reuben sandwich in dip form!

Serving Suggestions

What to Serve with Reuben Dip

Pairing the right dippers with your Reuben dip can make a world of difference. Think of your dip as the star—now you need the perfect supporting cast.

Best Dippers to Use:

Rye Bread or Rye Toast Points: This is the classic match. The caraway flavor in rye bread mimics the sandwich it’s inspired by.
Pumpernickel Bread: Another dark bread that brings deep flavor and sturdy texture.
Crackers: Choose thick, sturdy crackers like Triscuits, Melba toast, or rye crisps that can handle a hearty scoop.
Tortilla Chips: A versatile, crunchy option—especially if you’re serving to a crowd that prefers classic party dippers.
Pretzel Chips or Mini Pretzels: The salty crunch pairs really well with the creamy, cheesy dip.
Cucumber or Celery Sticks: If you’re looking to balance the richness with a fresh bite, go for veggie dippers.

You can also get creative and use this dip in other ways. Try spooning it over baked potatoes, using it in grilled cheese, or even stuffing it into mini phyllo cups for party appetizers. The sky’s the limit with this one!

Great Occasions for Serving

Reuben dip is a true party pleaser. It’s rich, bold, and gets everyone talking—so save it for those special moments when you want to impress a crowd.

Top Occasions to Serve Reuben Dip:

Game Day Parties: Perfect for halftime hunger attacks.
Holiday Gatherings: It’s a hit on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
Potlucks: Easy to transport and guaranteed to disappear fast.
St. Patrick’s Day: Celebrate Irish heritage with corned beef and sauerkraut flavors.
Birthday Parties or Casual Get-Togethers: It adds that “wow” factor to your spread.
Movie Nights: Nothing says comfort like scooping hot cheesy dip during a good film.

Basically, if people are gathering and eating, Reuben dip deserves a spot on the table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

If by some miracle you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), you’ll want to store them properly to keep that gooey, delicious quality intact.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigeration: Allow the dip to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing (Not Ideal but Possible): Due to the creamy nature and cheese content, freezing can change the texture slightly. If you must, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Always label your containers with the date to track freshness.

Best Reheating Methods

To bring your Reuben dip back to life, you want it hot, creamy, and bubbly—just like when you first baked it.

How to Reheat:

Oven Method (Best for Larger Quantities):

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the dip in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
Heat for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
Uncover for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

Microwave (Best for Single Servings):

Scoop some dip into a microwave-safe bowl.
Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel.
Heat on high in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.

Skillet Reheat:

Heat in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot and bubbly. Great if you’re adding fresh toppings.

Reheating will revive your dip and make it just as crave-worthy the second time around. Just be sure not to overcook it, or the oils from the cheese may start to separate.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Reuben Dip

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few pitfalls that could throw off the flavor or texture. Avoid these mistakes to keep your dip on point:

Using Wet Sauerkraut: Always drain and squeeze out excess moisture. Wet sauerkraut = soggy dip.
Not Softening Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese is hard to mix and won’t blend smoothly.
Overbaking: This can dry out the dip and make the top rubbery. Bake just until bubbly and golden.
Skipping the Shredding: Always use freshly shredded cheese when possible—it melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded bags.
Unbalanced Flavors: Taste before baking. If it’s too tangy, add more cheese. Too bland? A dash more seasoning or dressing will help.

Flavor Enhancing Secrets

Want to give your dip that “next level” flavor? Try these expert tricks:

Add a Dash of Worcestershire Sauce: It deepens the savory umami flavor.
Use Russian Dressing Instead of Thousand Island: It has a slightly spicier, more complex taste.
Mix Cheeses: Add mozzarella for meltiness or Gruyère for depth.
Layer the Dip Twice: Create two thinner layers in the baking dish with cheese in between to ensure cheesiness throughout.
Serve with a Side of Pickles: The tart crunch of pickles cuts through the richness like magic.

With these tips, your Reuben dip will have people asking for the recipe before they’ve even finished their plate.

Nutritional Information

Calorie Breakdown

While Reuben dip isn’t exactly “light,” it’s definitely worth indulging in for special occasions. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings total):

Nutrient	Approx. Amount Per Serving
Calories	320–380 kcal
Protein	14g–18g
Carbohydrates	5g–8g
Fat	28g–32g
Saturated Fat	12g–16g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	700mg–850mg
Sugar	2g

Keep in mind, these values can vary depending on the brands you use and whether you add optional ingredients like extra cheese or pickles.

Substitutions for a Healthier Version

If you’re watching your diet but still want to enjoy this comfort food, here are a few ways to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor:

Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Use a reduced-fat version to cut calories.
Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream: Adds protein and reduces fat.
Light Swiss Cheese: Or try part-skim mozzarella for less fat.
Lean Corned Beef or Turkey Pastrami: Still flavorful but lower in fat.
Whole Wheat Crackers or Veggie Sticks: Swap out high-calorie dippers for healthier options.

These swaps make it possible to enjoy Reuben dip more often without the guilt. Just remember—moderation is key!

Reuben Dip Variations

Slow Cooker Version

Want to make Reuben dip even easier? Let your slow cooker do all the work.

How to Make It in the Crockpot:

Combine All Ingredients: Just like the traditional version, mix all ingredients in a large bowl first.
Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour into a small crockpot (2- or 3-quart).
Heat on Low for 2–3 Hours: Stir occasionally until hot and bubbly.
Keep on Warm Setting: Perfect for long parties—no baking required!

This version is great for gatherings where you need the dip to stay warm for hours.

Cold Reuben Dip Option

Looking for a quick, no-bake option? Reuben dip can also be served cold, and it’s surprisingly delicious.

How to Prepare Cold Reuben Dip:

Use all the same ingredients (just skip baking).
Mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, dressing, corned beef, sauerkraut, and shredded cheese.
Chill for at least 1 hour in the fridge.
Serve with crackers or bread.

Cold Reuben dip has a tangier, slightly firmer texture that works really well as a spread. It’s ideal for summer gatherings or as a quick appetizer when the oven’s not an option.

FAQs about Reuben Dip Recipe

1. Can I make Reuben dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can fully assemble the dip (minus the baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

2. What’s the best type of cheese for this dip?

Swiss is traditional and gives that classic Reuben flavor. But you can mix it with mozzarella for meltiness or Gruyère for a nuttier profile.

3. Can I use canned corned beef instead of deli meat?

Yes, but it will result in a saltier and slightly mushier texture. Fresh deli-style or leftover homemade corned beef is best.

4. How do I keep the dip from getting watery?

The key is to fully drain and squeeze the sauerkraut before mixing it in. Also, avoid overbaking, which can separate the fats and create excess liquid.

5. Can I freeze Reuben dip?

You can, but it’s not ideal due to the dairy content. It may become grainy or separate when thawed. If you must freeze it, do so before baking, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Reuben dip is everything you love about the iconic sandwich, transformed into a warm, cheesy, dip-worthy creation. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game, or just craving some serious comfort food, this dip delivers bold flavor in every bite. From its rich base of cream cheese and Swiss to the tang of sauerkraut and savory beef, each scoop is a little taste of indulgent heaven.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of the perfect Reuben dip—from selecting the best ingredients to layering, baking, and serving it like a pro. Don’t forget to try out the slow cooker version or cold variation for added flexibility.

So next time you’re planning a gathering, skip the store-bought dips and whip up something memorable. Trust me—once your guests try this, they’ll be begging you to bring it to every party.