Name: Hearty Reuben Bowls: A Low-Carb Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Mayonnaise (Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.); 2 tablespoons Sweet Pickle Relish (Can be swapped with diced pickles.); 2 tablespoons Ketchup (Use sugar-free options for less sugar.); 1 tablespoon Prepared Horseradish (Adjust based on desired spice level.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (Substitute with vinegar if unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce (Omit if sensitive to fish sauce.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Use sea salt or table salt as alternatives.); 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Can be replaced with white pepper.); 1 teaspoon Caraway Seeds (Omit if desired.); 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Substitute with any neutral oil.); 1 medium Yellow Onion, Chopped (Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.); 4 cups Green Cabbage, Thinly Sliced (Use napa cabbage for a softer texture.); 1 cup Shredded Carrot (Zucchini can be used as a low-carb alternative.); 8 ounces Corned Beef, Sliced (Replace with pastrami for a different flavor.); 1 cup Sauerkraut, Drained (Use pickled vegetables as an alternative.); 1 cup Shredded Swiss Cheese (Substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.); 1/4 cup Thinly Sliced Cornichon (Regular pickles can substitute.); 2 tablespoons Thinly Sliced Green Onion (Chives can be a substitute.)

As I rummaged through my fridge one busy afternoon, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of flavors that inspired my Low-Carb Reuben Bowls. Craving the classic comfort of a Reuben sandwich but pressed for time, I found a way to transform this beloved dish into a nourishing bowl that’s both quick to prepare and utterly satisfying. With juicy corned beef, creamy dressing, tangy sauerkraut, and vibrant veggies, these bowls make for an enticing meal ready in just 40 minutes. Plus, without the bread, they’re perfect for those looking to enjoy comfort food without the carbs! So, are you ready to give your taste buds a delicious twist?

Why Are Reuben Bowls So Irresistible?

Quick, Delicious Meal: In just 40 minutes, you can have a hearty meal that rivals any restaurant. Perfect for busy nights!

Classic Flavor Twist: Enjoy all the rich flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich—think corned beef, creamy dressing, and sauerkraut—without the bread.

Nutrient-Rich Options: With added veggies like cabbage and carrots, these bowls boost your meal’s nutritional value, letting you savor comfort food guilt-free.

Adaptable & Fun: Feel free to replace corned beef with pastrami or turkey, or switch up the veggies to reflect your personal taste.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds! If you love comforting dishes, don’t miss out on these delightful Potato Bowls Loaded for a satisfying side.

Reuben Bowls Ingredients

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the dressing; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Sweet Pickle Relish – Provides sweetness and tang; can be swapped with diced pickles for a sharper flavor.
Ketchup – Adds sweetness and moisture; use sugar-free options to reduce sugars.
Prepared Horseradish – Offers a zesty kick; adjust quantity based on desired spice level.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors; substitute with vinegar if unavailable.
Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; omit if sensitive to fish sauce.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; use sea salt or table salt as alternatives.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Provides heat; can be replaced with white pepper for a milder flavor.
Caraway Seeds – Contributes a distinct flavor associated with rye bread; omit if desired.

For the Bowl

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; substitute with any neutral oil like canola.
Yellow Onion, Chopped – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
Green Cabbage, Thinly Sliced – Serves as the base, enhancing volume and crunch; use napa cabbage for a softer texture.
Shredded Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; zucchini can be used as a low-carb alternative.
Corned Beef, Sliced – The centerpiece of the dish; replace with pastrami for a different flavor.
Sauerkraut, Drained – Introduces tanginess; use pickled vegetables as an alternative.
Shredded Swiss Cheese – Adds richness; substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.
Thinly Sliced Cornichon – For crunch and acidity; regular pickles can substitute.
Thinly Sliced Green Onion – Provides freshness and a mild onion flavor; chives can be a substitute.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reuben Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, and caraway seeds. Mix until the dressing becomes creamy and well-combined, with a smooth consistency. Set aside while you prepare the other components of your comforting Reuben Bowls.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This sweetness will lay a flavorful foundation for the rest of the ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the thinly sliced green cabbage and shredded carrots to the skillet with the sautéed onions. Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage wilts and the carrots soften slightly but still retain some crunch. The vibrant colors will make your Reuben Bowls visually appealing.

Step 4: Heat the Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
Mix in the sliced corned beef and drained sauerkraut, stirring to combine everything in the skillet. Cook for about 3–5 minutes, until the corned beef is heated through and the sauerkraut warms up. The savory and tangy flavors will meld beautifully during this step.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the corned beef and vegetable mixture evenly among serving bowls. Top each bowl generously with shredded Swiss cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the warmth of the mixture. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and cornichons for a delightful crunch and bright flavor.

Step 6: Drizzle with Dressing
Finally, drizzle the prepared dressing over the assembled Reuben Bowls, ensuring every bite is packed with that creamy goodness. Serve immediately while warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the comforting flavors you’ve created in this quick and satisfying meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Low-Carb Reuben Bowls are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dressing and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The corned beef can be sliced and kept in the fridge for about 3 days. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, store the dressing separately and keep the assembled bowls in the fridge, adding the Swiss cheese only when ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, just heat the vegetable and beef mixture on the stovetop, assemble your bowls, and drizzle with dressing for a quick and delicious meal that’s just as satisfying as when made fresh!

Expert Tips for Reuben Bowls

Freshness Matters: Use fresh vegetables like crisp cabbage and vibrant carrots for a satisfying crunch. Avoid wilted ingredients to elevate your Reuben Bowls.
Mixing It Up: Feel free to swap out corned beef for pastrami or turkey for a fun twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly to enhance the new flavor profile.
Customize the Dressing: Make your dressing ahead of time for added flavor depth. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; enjoy it on salads or sandwiches!
Watch the Cooking Time: Sauté vegetables until they’re just tender, as overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Perfectly cooked cabbage and carrots contribute to the appeal of your Reuben Bowls.
Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the green onions and cornichons; they add a fresh taste and crunch that elevate the dish. Presentation matters, and these toppings make your bowls visually stunning!
Meal Prep Tip: Create a big batch of the corned beef and vegetable mixture for quick meals during the week. Just reheat and top with fresh dressing for a hassle-free dinner!

Reuben Bowls Variations & Substitutions

Explore delightful twists on your Reuben Bowls to suit your tastes and dietary needs, making them even more enjoyable!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the Swiss cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative for a creamy yet dairy-free meal.
Low-FODMAP: Use green onions in place of regular onions, and opt for lactose-free cheese to keep it gut-friendly.
Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or spinach during sautéing to boost nutritional value and add vibrant colors to your dish.
Vegan Delight: Replace corned beef with jackfruit or tempeh and use vegan mayo for a hearty plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an exciting kick that elevates the flavor.
Flavor Experiment: Try adding a touch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the dressing for a unique twist on the classic sauce.
Grain-Free Base: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of a traditional base for a low-carb and satisfying option.
Nutty Aroma: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top for an unexpected crunch and depth of flavor.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas for your perfect bowl! And if you want to continue your flavor journey, check out these delicious Potato Bowls Loaded for more inspiration. Well, it’s time to make your Reuben experience even more delightful!

What to Serve with Low-Carb Reuben Bowls?

Elevate your Reuben Bowl experience with thoughtful pairings that enhance flavors and textures for a truly satisfying meal.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts: These bright, savory bites add a fun crunch and slight bitterness that perfectly balances the richness of the bowls.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm, they provide a delightful option for those who might want a little extra to soak up the delicious dressing.
Tangy Cucumber Salad: This refreshing side brings a crisp, cool element that contrasts wonderfully with the warm, hearty components of the Reuben Bowls. A drizzle of vinegar brightens up the flavors.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory corned beef, and the vibrant orange color adds a visual appeal to your meal. Plus, the caramelization provides a delightful texture contrast.
Spinach and Strawberry Salad: A light and fruity side dish that offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Reuben Bowls. The sweetness of the strawberries adds a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds.
Ice-Cold Light Beer: This classic pairing complements the bold flavors of the Reuben Bowls beautifully. Opt for a lager or wheat beer for a refreshing beverage to sip alongside dinner.
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge your sweet tooth with a rich, creamy dessert that’s light yet decadent. Its smooth texture offers a lovely finish after the savory meal.
Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing palate cleanser, lemon sorbet is perfect. The bright citrus notes invigorate your senses and leave you feeling uplifted after the hearty Reuben Bowls.

How to Store and Freeze Reuben Bowls

Fridge: Store assembled Reuben Bowls in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to the dressing and vegetables, you can freeze the corned beef and sautéed veggies together for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the corned beef and veggies in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, then add fresh dressing before serving. Enjoy a quick, satisfying meal without compromising flavor!

Leftover Dressing: Keep any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to 2 weeks to use in salads or sandwiches, enhancing future meals with that classic Reuben flavor.

Reuben Bowls Recipe FAQs

What type of corned beef should I use for Reuben Bowls?
Absolutely! Use high-quality sliced corned beef for the best flavor. You can also opt for pastrami or turkey if you’re looking for a variation. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning to complement these meats.

How should I store leftover Reuben Bowls?
For sure! Store your assembled Reuben Bowls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain their freshness, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve again.

Can I freeze Reuben Bowls?
Yes, you can! Although freezing the completed bowls isn’t ideal because of the dressing, you can freeze the corned beef and sautéed vegetables together for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat.

What should I do if my cabbage becomes mushy when cooking?
Very good question! If your cabbage turns mushy, you’ve likely overcooked it. I recommend cooking the cabbage and carrots until just tender, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently. This way, they’ll retain a nice crunch that enhances the texture of your Reuben Bowls.

How can I modify the dressing for dietary restrictions?
Great inquiry! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Also, use sugar-free ketchup if you’re watching your sugars. You could also replace Worcestershire sauce with a vegan alternative if needed.

Is this recipe suitable for pets?
I’m glad you asked! The ingredients in Reuben Bowls, particularly the onions and sauces, aren’t safe for pets. Ensure you keep any leftovers away from your furry friends, as some components could be harmful to them.