Name: Savory Reuben Squares That Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 tubes Refrigerated Crescent Rolls (Use sheets variety for ease); to taste Cooking Spray (Prevents sticking); 1/2 lb Corned Beef (Chopped into bite-sized pieces); 6 slices Swiss Cheese (Can substitute with provolone); 3/4 cup Sauerkraut (Rinse if less acidity is preferred); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be a lighter option); 1 Tbsp Ketchup (Optional for less sweetness); 1 Tbsp Horseradish (Adjust according to spice preference); 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce (Can substitute with soy sauce); 1 tsp Granulated Sugar (Optional based on taste preference); 1/4 tsp Paprika (Optional for subtle smokiness); to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Adjust based on taste); 2 Tbsp Melted Butter (Brush on top for a golden finish); to taste Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste); to taste Caraway Seeds (Optional for flavor)

As I was rummaging through my pantry, searching for inspiration, I stumbled upon the vibrant flavors that make a Reuben classic: corned beef, Swiss cheese, and zesty sauerkraut. Enter Easy Melty Reuben Squares—a fun twist on the beloved sandwich that redefines comfort food. These delightful squares are not only incredibly simple to whip up, but they also make the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to lively St. Patrick’s Day parties. With a buttery crescent roll crust wrapping around savory fillings, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in just 50 minutes! Curious about how to transform your next meal into a festive hit? Let’s dive into this recipe and get cooking!

What makes Reuben Squares irresistible?

Bold flavors: Experience the delightful harmony of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut in every bite. This twist on a classic is sure to amaze!

Easy preparation: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have this comforting dish ready to wow your friends and family without breaking a sweat.

Crowd-pleasing delight: Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, Reuben Squares are a surefire way to impress your guests, leaving them eagerly asking for more.

Versatile options: Feel free to customize your recipe with different meats or cheeses, like pastrami or cheddar, making this dish adaptable to any palate.

Festive choice: Ideal for St. Patrick’s Day or any celebration, serving these squares adds a fun twist that rejoices in the spirit of the holiday!

Reuben Squares Ingredients

• Get ready to craft these delicious Reuben Squares with the essentials below!

For the Base and Top Crust

Refrigerated Crescent Rolls (2 tubes, 8 oz each) – Use the “sheets” variety for ease; the perforated version works too.
Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking for easy removal from the baking dish.

For the Savory Filling

Corned Beef (1/2 lb.) – Provides the classic savory flavor; chopped into bite-sized pieces to keep the texture consistent.
Swiss Cheese (6 slices) – Adds creaminess and mellows the dish; can substitute with provolone for a different flavor.
Sauerkraut (3/4 cup) – Adds tanginess and texture; rinse well if you prefer less acidity.

For the Sauce

Mayonnaise (1/4 cup) – Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be replaced for a lighter option.
Ketchup (1 Tbsp.) – Adds a hint of sweetness; can be omitted for less sweetness.
Horseradish (1 Tbsp.) – Delivers a kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp.) – Adds depth of flavor; can substitute with soy sauce for a different twist.
Granulated Sugar (1 tsp.) – Balances acidity; optional based on taste preference.
Paprika (1/4 tsp.) – For subtle smokiness; optional.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adjust based on your taste for seasoning.

For Topping

Melted Butter (2 Tbsp.) – Brush on top for a golden finish.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste as corned beef may already be salty.
Caraway Seeds – Provides a distinct flavor complementing the Reuben; optional.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reuben Squares

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the Reuben Squares will bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking dish by spraying it generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking during the baking process.

Step 2: Prepare Bottom Crust
Unroll one tube of refrigerated crescent roll dough and press it firmly into the greased baking dish, covering the bottom completely. Make sure to seal any perforations for a solid crust. Parbake this layer in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it turns slightly golden and has puffed up just enough to hold the flavors that will come.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Once the bottom crust is ready, remove it from the oven and layer the chopped corned beef evenly across the crust. Following that, lay the slices of Swiss cheese on top to melt perfectly as the Reuben Squares bake. Finally, evenly distribute the sauerkraut over the cheese layer, adding a tangy flavor that complements the savory beef and creamy cheese beautifully.

Step 4: Mix and Spread Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, granulated sugar, paprika, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until smooth to create a zesty sauce. Drizzle this mixture generously over the layered ingredients, ensuring that the Reuben Squares will be bursting with flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Top Crust
Open the second tube of crescent rolls and unroll it atop the layered ingredients, pinching the seams together to seal them well. This step is crucial to keep the filling inside during baking. Brush the top with melted butter for a rich finish and sprinkle lightly with kosher salt to enhance all those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Bake
Return the assembled Reuben Squares to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing into squares for serving.

What to Serve with Easy Melty Reuben Squares

These hearty, flavorful squares are perfect to accompany your gathering, creating a delightful meal experience.

Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy freshness of coleslaw balances the richness of the Reuben Squares perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that complements the savory flavors while adding satisfying crunch.
Pickle Platter: A variety of pickles, including dill and sweet options, offers a delightful zing that enhances the classic flavor profile of the Reuben.
Beer Pairing: A light lager or Irish stout works wonders with the Reuben Squares, as the cold, crisp flavors cut through the richness beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette offers a light counterpart, cleansing the palate between bites of the delicious squares.
Dessert Option: Serve a rich chocolate cake or brownies to indulge your sweet tooth after enjoying these savory delights, creating a wonderful end to your meal.

The combination of these sides with Easy Melty Reuben Squares will elevate your dining experience, making it truly memorable!

Make Ahead Options

These Reuben Squares are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut) and sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Simply layer the filling over the parbaked crust shortly before baking. Additionally, the assembled squares can be covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time to ensure they heat through properly. When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven and follow the baking instructions for delicious, crowd-pleasing Reuben Squares that are just as tasty as if made fresh!

Variations & Substitutions for Reuben Squares

Feel free to let your culinary creativity run wild as you customize these delightful Reuben Squares!

Turkey Twist: Substitute corned beef with sliced turkey for a lighter, yet still tasty option.
Cheese Alternatives: Try swapping Swiss cheese with aged cheddar or Gruyère to add a robust flavor.
Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an adventurous heat element.
Vegan Delight: Opt for plant-based meats and vegan cheese to create a delicious vegan version of these squares.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives into the sauce for a burst of freshness.
Bowl Variation: Transform these into Reuben Bowls using cooked quinoa or rice as a base, layering ingredients on top.
Pinwheel Fun: Roll ingredients in the crescent dough and slice into pinwheels for a fun appetizer!
Casserole Style: Layer all the ingredients in a baking dish without dough for a hearty Reuben casserole.

Whichever variation you choose, don’t forget to pair these squares with a refreshing side of classic coleslaw or some tangy pickles for that perfect touch! Enjoy experimenting, and happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Reuben Squares

Fridge: Store leftover Reuben Squares in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you have a tasty treat on hand.

Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain that delightful melty cheese texture.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Reuben Squares at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Enjoy them warm for the best flavors!

Expert Tips for Reuben Squares

Seal the Seams: Ensure all the crescent roll seams are tightly sealed. This prevents any delicious filling from leaking out while baking.
Layer Wisely: For an extra cheesy experience, don’t hesitate to add more layers of corned beef or Swiss cheese to your Reuben Squares.
Grease Well: Generously apply cooking spray to your baking dish to make removing those squares a breeze once they’re baked.
Adapt Cooking Time: If your baking dish differs in size (like an 8×8 or 9×13), adjust your baking time slightly to ensure they cook evenly.
Customize Flavors: Enjoy experimenting! Swap out corned beef for pastrami or turkey, or try different cheeses to cater to diverse tastes at your gathering.

Reuben Squares Recipe FAQs

What type of corned beef should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using lean corned beef that is freshly sliced from your deli—chopped into bite-sized pieces. This ensures you get that classic savory taste in every bite. If you’re looking for an alternative, pastrami works wonderfully too!

How should I store leftover Reuben Squares?
After enjoying your Reuben Squares, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing. This keeps them fresh and ready for tasty munching later!

Can I freeze Reuben Squares?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What if my Reuben Squares leak during baking?
To prevent leaking, ensure all seams of the crescent roll dough are tightly pinched and sealed before baking. If you find some filling escapes, don’t worry! Just bake them as usual—the flavor will still be delightful, and it’s a sign of the tasty filling inside.

Are Reuben Squares safe for those with allergies?
It depends! This dish contains common allergens like wheat (in crescent rolls) and dairy (in cheese). If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider making adjustments—such as using gluten-free crescent rolls or plant-based cheese alternatives for lactose sensitivity. Always check labels and communicate with your guests for a safe and enjoyable meal.