If you love the flavors of a classic deli sandwich but want something a bit more fun and shareable, the Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This indulgent, crowd-pleasing dish takes all the iconic elements of a Reuben sandwich—tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, and that glorious Thousand Island dressing—and wraps them up in a golden, buttery pizza dough spiral. It’s perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want a delicious, hearty snack that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you try this Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe, it will become a guaranteed favorite at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe is both simple and satisfying. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: the dough creates the perfect chewy base, the corned beef brings savory depth, and the sauerkraut offers that signature tangy punch you crave in every bite.
- 1 lb Pizza Dough: This acts as the sturdy but soft canvas that holds all those delicious fillings together.
- 1 lb Corned Beef (shaved): Choose freshly shaved corned beef for maximum tenderness and robust flavor.
- 1 cup Sauerkraut (drained): Well-drained sauerkraut prevents sogginess and adds the perfect zing.
- 8 slices Swiss Cheese: Swiss melts beautifully and balances the tangy and savory notes.
- 1/3 cup Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy dressing adds moisture and that iconic Reuben flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon Butter: Brushed on the crust for a golden, buttery finish that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon Pure Cane Sugar: Sprinkled on top to create a sweet contrast to the savory fillings.
How to Make Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and cleanup. This step is essential because a hot oven ensures your bread bakes up beautifully golden on the outside while staying soft inside.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Take your pizza dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it roughly fits the dimensions of your 9×13 pan. This creates a perfect rectangle that will hold all the delicious layers without overflowing. A well-rolled dough means more even baking and a better crust texture.
Step 3: Spread the Thousand Island Dressing
Generously spread the Thousand Island dressing over the dough, leaving about a one-inch border all around. This not only flavors the bread but also creates a moist layer that keeps everything inside perfectly seasoned. Make sure not to spread dressing over the edges so the dough can seal tightly when rolled.
Step 4: Layer the Filling
Now for the good stuff—layer on your shaved corned beef evenly over the dressing, followed by the drained sauerkraut, and then the Swiss cheese slices. Each layer contributes to that signature Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe flavor explosion, with textures ranging from tender to crunchy and gooey.
Step 5: Roll and Seal the Dough
Starting with the longer side, carefully roll up the pizza dough into a tight log, making sure to pinch the edges to seal in all those wonderful fillings. Place the roll seam side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent it from unrolling during baking. This step is key for keeping your layers perfectly contained.
Step 6: Bake and Finish the Crust
Bake the roll in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until it turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbling inside. Then, remove it and brush the crust generously with butter before sprinkling it with the pure cane sugar. Pop it back into the oven for an additional 2 minutes for a glossy, slightly sweet finish on the crust that complements the savory fillings beautifully.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once your Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe comes out of the oven, resist the urge to dig in immediately. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes; this rest period helps the fillings set slightly, making each slice neat and easy to handle. Then, slice and get ready for some serious flavor enjoyment.
How to Serve Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While the baked roll is spectacular all on its own, feel free to add some fresh garnishes to elevate the experience. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brightens the flavors, while a few pickle slices on the side bring that classic deli crunch that pairs well with the rich filling.
Side Dishes
To round out your Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe, consider serving with a tangy coleslaw, homemade potato chips, or a crisp green salad. These sides add variety in texture and freshness, balancing the hearty richness of the bread nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual gatherings, slice the roll into bite-sized pinwheels and arrange them on a platter for a fun appetizer spread. You might also serve it with small ramekins of extra Thousand Island dressing or mustard for dipping to give guests even more delicious options.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the bread sealed well ensures it stays moist and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole rolled-up Reuben Garbage Bread before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed for fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices in a 350-degree oven for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving to maintain that perfect crust and melty cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works brilliantly and saves time, while still delivering a wonderful texture that complements the Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe perfectly.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free pizza dough in this recipe. Just make sure it’s one that holds up well when rolled and baked to maintain the shape and structure.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian-style?
Definitely! Simply replace the corned beef with grilled mushrooms or a savory plant-based deli slice. The Swiss cheese and sauerkraut still provide that classic Reuben taste.
How spicy is this dish?
The Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe is generally mild, with the richness of the dressing and cheese balanced by the tang of sauerkraut. You can add a little horseradish to the dressing if you want a spicy kick.
What’s the best way to slice the bread for serving?
Use a sharp serrated knife and cut the roll into one-inch thick slices after it has cooled slightly. This keeps the layers intact and makes for perfect portions to share.
Final Thoughts
Making the Reuben Garbage Bread Recipe is a delightful way to reinvent a beloved sandwich into a shareable, crowd-pleasing dish that your family and friends will adore. Its combination of hearty flavors, creamy dressing, and buttery, golden crust is exactly the kind of comfort food you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to something deliciously unforgettable!
