Hot Baked Reuben Dip Recipe

Cook Time: 25 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 24 servings:

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 pound deli sliced corned beef or pastrami, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained well, squeezed very dry
• 4 ounces shredded Gruyre cheese
• 4 ounces shredded Emmenthaler cheese
• cup sweet pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
• Crackers and bread for serving

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the deli-sliced corned beef or pastrami, sauerkraut, shredded Gruyre cheese, shredded Emmenthaler cheese, sweet pickle relish, mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Step 3: Using a wooden spoon, mix everything together until the mixture is well blended, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Spread it evenly and smooth out the top.

Step 5: Roughen the surface slightly with the tines of a fork. This will help increase surface exposure, add texture, and encourage even browning during baking.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.

Step 7: Allow the dish to cool for about 15 minutes before serving.

Step 8: Serve with crackers and bread for a perfect snack or appetizer.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving:

• Calories: 138
• Fat: 10g (13% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (25% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 33mg (11% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 441mg (19% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 5g (2% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 8g (15% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 103mg (8% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (5% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 103mg (2% Daily Value)

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

Hot Baked Reuben Dip is a twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, often enjoyed as a hearty appetizer or snack. With a combination of creamy cheese, savory corned beef (or pastrami), tangy sauerkraut, and a few secret ingredients like sweet pickle relish and Dijon mustard, this dip has all the flavors of the beloved sandwichminus the bread. Its baked until golden and bubbling, making it a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion that calls for comfort food.

History of the Reuben Dip

The original Reuben sandwich, which dates back to the early 20th century, was created by Reuben Kulakofsky, a New York City deli owner. However, the exact details of the sandwich's origin are debated. One popular theory is that Kulakofsky invented the sandwich for a weekly poker game with his friends, and it soon gained popularity in the deli scene. The Reuben sandwich features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all served on rye bread.

The Reuben dip, which takes the same ingredients and turns them into a warm, cheesy appetizer, likely emerged in the 2000s as a fun and shareable way to enjoy the classic sandwich flavors in a new format. Its quick preparation and ability to feed a crowd made it a hit at gatherings like Super Bowl parties, St. Patrick's Day celebrations, and holiday feasts.

Regional Features of the Reuben Dip

The Reuben dip retains much of the traditional flavors of the sandwich but with a few regional twists. For example, in certain areas, such as Wisconsin, where cheese is a staple, the dip might use a mix of local cheeses like Gruyre or Emmenthaler, as opposed to the Swiss cheese typically found in the sandwich. In other regions, variations of the dip may incorporate different types of meat, such as pastrami instead of corned beef, depending on local preferences.

What Sets It Apart from Similar Dishes

The Reuben dip stands out among other cheesy dips due to its distinctive combination of salty, tangy, and savory flavors. While other popular dips, such as the classic buffalo chicken dip or spinach artichoke dip, are more universally recognized, the Reuben dip offers a unique twist by combining the sharpness of sauerkraut and the richness of corned beef. The addition of sweet pickle relish adds a surprising sweetness that balances the sourness of the sauerkraut and the savory meat.

Where Is the Reuben Dip Typically Served?

This dip is commonly served as an appetizer at parties, particularly during sports events like the Super Bowl or during St. Patricks Day celebrations, where it pays homage to the Irish-American roots of the classic Reuben sandwich. Its usually accompanied by crackers, toasted rye bread, or even vegetable sticks for dipping. Its warm, cheesy consistency makes it a perfect choice for any casual get-together, family meal, or potluck event.

Interesting Facts about the Reuben Dip

• While the exact origins of the Reuben sandwich are up for debate, its generally agreed that it was created in the early 1900s, either in New York or Omaha, Nebraska.
• The Reuben dip gained popularity in the 2000s, and it became a staple at parties due to its ability to be made in large batches and served with ease.
• Although the dip is often made with corned beef, it can also be prepared using pastrami, making it adaptable to different tastes.
• The dip can also be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and baked just before serving, making it a convenient option for busy hosts.
• The warm, bubbling texture of the dip mimics the melting Swiss cheese in the Reuben sandwich, providing a similar satisfying experience.

FAQ about Hot Baked Reuben Dip Recipe

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