Slow Cooker Reuben Dip Recipe

Slow Cooker Reuben Dip Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings.

  • 1 (16 ounce) jar sauerkraut, drained
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cooked corned beef
  • cup Thousand Island dressing

Directions

  1. In a slow cooker, combine the sauerkraut, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, corned beef, and Thousand Island dressing.
  2. Cover and cook on high until the mixture is hot, stirring occasionally. This should take about 45 minutes.
  3. If you're in a hurry, just cook until it's hot and the cheese has melted. For a slower, more melded flavor, cook on low for a longer period.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition information is per serving. The recipe yields 12 servings.

Nutrition Facts Amount per Serving
Calories 298
Total Fat 23g
Saturated Fat 13g
Cholesterol 76mg
Sodium 636mg
Total Carbohydrate 6g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Total Sugars 2g
Protein 18g
Vitamin C 6mg
Calcium 350mg
Iron 1mg
Potassium 144mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Slow Cooker Reuben Dip

Author: C Ella Church

This creamy, cheesy dip is an American favorite, combining the delicious flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese with the tang of Thousand Island dressing. Made in a slow cooker, this dip is perfect for parties, potlucks, or any casual gathering where finger foods are in high demand. But whats the story behind this scrumptious appetizer? Lets take a dive into its origins, regional variations, and more.

History of the Reuben Dip

The Reuben Dip is an offshoot of the classic Reuben sandwich, which was invented in the early 20th century. According to popular lore, the Reuben sandwich was created by a New York deli owner named Arnold Reuben. However, the origins of the dip are not as clear-cut. It likely emerged as a fun and easy-to-serve variation of the Reuben sandwich, offering the same flavors in a shareable, dip-able form. This dip started gaining traction in the 2000s, becoming a favorite at gatherings like Super Bowl parties and family reunions.

Regional Variations

The Reuben sandwich has a strong association with the United States, particularly with New York City, where it is often served in Jewish delis. However, the dip version can be found in many parts of the country, especially during the colder months when hearty, comfort food is a crowd-pleaser. In some regions, people experiment with ingredients like pastrami instead of corned beef, or even switch out Swiss cheese for mozzarella for a lighter flavor.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What makes the Reuben Dip stand out among other dips is its unique combination of flavors and textures. Unlike typical cheesy dips, which rely on the richness of cream cheese and melted cheese alone, the Reuben Dip includes tangy sauerkraut and savory corned beef, giving it a more complex flavor profile. The addition of Thousand Island dressing adds a sweet and tangy component that enhances the overall experience. This dip is a fun take on the Reuben sandwich, offering all the beloved elements without the need for bread.

Where Its Typically Served

The Slow Cooker Reuben Dip is a popular choice for casual events like Super Bowl parties, holiday gatherings, or any potluck-style meal. Its warm, creamy texture makes it a perfect companion for dipping crunchy snacks like cocktail rye bread, tortilla chips, or crackers. Its also common to serve it with freshly toasted slices of rye bread, just like the sandwich version, allowing guests to scoop up the dip in the same way they would enjoy a Reuben sandwich.

Interesting Facts About the Reuben Dip

  • The Reuben sandwich itself has been a subject of debate for years, with many claiming to have invented it. Some argue it was the brainchild of a New York deli owner, while others trace its origins back to a chef in Nebraska.
  • While the Reuben sandwich is traditionally made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, variations like the dip offer flexibility with ingredients such as pastrami, mozzarella, and even spicy mustard for added heat.
  • This dip is a great way to use up leftover corned beef from St. Patricks Day celebrations, making it a perfect leftover recipe that people will actually want to eat.
  • The dip version is more popular than the sandwich in some areas, as its easier to prepare and serve in large quantities. Its also often made in a slow cooker, making it a hassle-free option for busy hosts.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Reuben Dip Recipe

Store leftover Reuben dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it's best to use a slow cooker or microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure the dip heats evenly.

Yes, you can freeze Reuben dip. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a slow cooker or on the stove, stirring frequently.

Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone. However, keep in mind that Swiss cheese provides a unique flavor, so the dip may taste slightly different with other cheeses.

To make the Reuben dip spicier, you can add ingredients like spicy mustard, horseradish, or a few dashes of hot sauce. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.

To make a healthier version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and Swiss cheese. You can also reduce the amount of Thousand Island dressing or use a lighter version, or substitute it with a healthier option like Greek yogurt.

Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time. Simply combine all ingredients and refrigerate it until you're ready to cook. When ready to serve, heat the dip in a slow cooker on low until it’s hot and melted.

This Reuben dip is best served with cocktail rye bread, tortilla chips, or crackers. You can also use fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers for a healthier dipping option.

Yes, you can use store-bought corned beef, either deli slices or canned corned beef. Just be sure to shred or chop it into small pieces for even mixing in the dip.

To reheat Reuben dip, you can use a slow cooker or microwave. If using a slow cooker, reheat on low, stirring occasionally until the dip is heated through. In the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Yes, you can bake the dip in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly. Stir occasionally for an even texture.

Comments

Catherine Turner

06/26/2023 05:43:32 PM

Yummy! This dish was a hit with everyone. I chopped thick deli slices of corned beef and mixed them with a creamy cornstarch slurry made of about 1/4 cup of heavy cream and 2 heaping teaspoons of corn starch. The cheese became incredibly creamy from stringy in no time! Absolutely delicious!

Stephen Flores

01/10/2024 12:35:10 PM

This dish was a big hit with my friends during a fun evening of board games and snacks following a delicious meal. I made a few tweaks: I increased the amount of Thousand Island dressing to 1 cup, added 1/2 cup of shredded Gran Pedano Parmesan cheese, mixed in 5 tablespoons of Horseradish deli mustard, and stirred in 3 tablespoons of creamed horseradish. This recipe is definitely a winner!

Laura Wright

10/28/2022 09:31:27 AM

Delicious meal! I opted for pastrami instead of corned beef and oven-toasted some regular rye bread cut into pieces drizzled with olive oil. So good!

Jack Collins

05/17/2024 07:47:25 AM

Absolutely delightful and easy to make! I prepared this for our Christmas candy-making gathering and it was a huge hit! Whether paired with fresh vegetables or crackers, it was a hit either way.

Deborah Miller

01/27/2023 10:34:50 PM

My colleagues absolutely adored this dip!! They finished it off completely!! I gave it a try, but as someone new to enjoying sauerkraut, it wasn't quite to my taste. I love making dishes that others appreciate, even if it's not quite my thing!! Thanks for sharing such a fantastic recipe!!

Anthony Thompson

10/21/2022 03:52:30 AM

Fantastic starter! I followed the instructions precisely and it was amazing!