Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe

Introduction

The Keto Reuben in a Bowl brings the classic Reuben sandwich into a low-carb, keto-friendly format while preserving all the flavors that make the traditional version so beloved. This recipe features tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing—all without the bread! Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a healthier alternative to the classic sandwich, this dish delivers the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors in every bite.

With a fraction of the carbs of the original sandwich, Keto Reuben in a Bowl is a great choice for anyone wanting to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without compromising on flavor. It’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re enjoying it on your own or serving it at a family dinner.

This guide will walk you through every step of making this keto-friendly dish, give you tips for success, and offer some fun variations to make it your own. Let’s dive into this delicious, low-carb twist on a classic!

Why You’ll Love Keto Reuben in a Bowl

• Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb: Traditional Reubens can be loaded with carbs from the rye bread, but this recipe skips the bread while keeping all the flavors. It’s a perfect choice for those on a keto diet, offering all the richness and satisfaction without the carbs.
• Savory, Flavor-Packed Meal: The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut gives the dish a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy. The dressing adds a creamy touch that ties everything together.
• Quick and Easy: Keto Reuben in a Bowl can be made in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a delicious lunch. No complicated steps or special ingredients are needed—just a few simple steps to a satisfying, flavorful meal.
• Customizable: While the basic ingredients of this dish are already delicious, you can easily adapt it to your tastes. Add extra veggies, change the cheese, or swap out the dressing for your favorite version—there’s plenty of room for personalization.
• No-Bread Option: If you’ve been missing the comfort of a Reuben sandwich on your keto diet, this bowl gives you all the flavors of the original without the need for bread. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional sandwiches.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 6-8g (Net Carbs: 4-5g)
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Keto Reuben in a Bowl:

• 1 lb corned beef (sliced thin)
• 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sugar-free ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado or olive oil-based)
• 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment

While making Keto Reuben in a Bowl doesn’t require special equipment, there are a few tools that can help make the process easier and more efficient:

1. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A large skillet will allow you to cook the corned beef, sauerkraut, and melt the cheese all in one pan. It’s the perfect tool for this one-pan meal.
2. Grater: Grating the Swiss cheese yourself is a great way to ensure you get a fresh, meltable cheese. Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes have anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
3. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Since this recipe involves multiple components (dressing and bowl ingredients), accurate measurements for the dressing are essential for the right balance of flavors.
4. Spatula or Tongs: You’ll need something to stir the ingredients in the skillet, and a spatula or tongs will help you avoid messing up the structure of the corned beef and sauerkraut.
5. Small Mixing Bowl: For mixing the dressing ingredients, you’ll need a small bowl to combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-mixed. Set aside for later. This dressing will add that creamy, tangy contrast that’s essential for a Reuben.

2. Cook the Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil (if using) to the pan. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the sliced corned beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-5 minutes until the corned beef is heated through and slightly crispy in places.

Next, add the drained sauerkraut to the pan with the corned beef. Stir to combine, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the corned beef can be quite salty, so be cautious with the salt.

3. Melt the Swiss Cheese

Once the corned beef and sauerkraut are heated through, reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely. This should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and gooey.

4. Assemble the Bowl

Once the cheese has melted, carefully divide the corned beef and sauerkraut mixture into four bowls. This will serve as the base of your Keto Reuben.

5. Drizzle with Dressing

Once the corned beef and sauerkraut are in the bowls, drizzle each serving with a generous amount of the prepared dressing. You can either pour the dressing over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.

6. Garnish and Serve

Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and a hint of freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a keto-friendly, low-carb bowl format!

Tips for Perfect Keto Reuben in a Bowl

• Choose the Right Corned Beef: When selecting corned beef, opt for a high-quality brand or deli meat. Be mindful that some corned beef products may contain added sugars, so check the label if you’re strictly following a keto diet.
• Adjust the Dressing to Taste: If you prefer a tangier dressing, you can add more vinegar or mustard. Alternatively, if you like a creamier dressing, increase the amount of mayonnaise.
• Heat the Sauerkraut Well: If you’re not a fan of overly tangy sauerkraut, you can sauté it for a little longer to mellow out the flavor before combining it with the corned beef.
• Use a Non-Stick Skillet: Since there’s cheese involved, using a non-stick skillet will help ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan while melting the cheese.
• Don’t Overcook the Meat: Corned beef can become tough if overcooked, so avoid leaving it in the skillet too long once it’s heated through.
• Customization: Feel free to experiment with the ingredients. Some people like to add a few sliced pickles or even some sautéed onions for extra flavor.

Variations of Keto Reuben in a Bowl

• Keto Reuben with Avocado: Add a few slices of avocado on top of your Keto Reuben in a Bowl for a creamy, satisfying addition that brings healthy fats to the dish.
• Spicy Keto Reuben: Spice up the dressing by adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This adds a little heat and gives the dish a fun twist.
• Keto Reuben with Bacon: For an even richer flavor, add crispy bacon crumbles to the top of your Keto Reuben in a Bowl. The salty, smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Vegetarian Keto Reuben: Replace the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Keto Reuben in a Bowl is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The corned beef and sauerkraut may release some liquid as they sit, so give the mixture a quick stir before reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the corned beef and sauerkraut mixture for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat. Reheat the dressing separately to keep it fresh.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Keto Reuben in a Bowl

Pair Keto Reuben in a Bowl with these keto-friendly sides to create a complete meal:

• Cauliflower Mash: The creamy, buttery texture of cauliflower mash complements the richness of the Reuben bowl.
• Keto Fries: Serve with crispy, keto-friendly fries made from zucchini, radishes, or even cauliflower for a satisfying side.
• Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled cucumbers or pickled onions adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the richness of the Reuben.
• Avocado Salad: A light avocado salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette is a great way to balance the heavier Reuben.

Print

Conclusion

Keto Reuben in a Bowl is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the classic Reuben flavors without the carbs. With tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and a creamy dressing, this low-carb twist on a traditional sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your keto recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is easy, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this keto-friendly take on a classic!