Ultimate Reuben Mac and Cheese: Creamy Comfort with a Savory Twist
Prepare for a culinary revelation with our Ultimate Reuben Mac and Cheese recipe. This isn’t just another comfort food; it’s a masterful fusion where the beloved classic macaroni and cheese meets the iconic, savory flavors of a Reuben sandwich. Imagine perfectly cooked cellentani pasta bathed in a rich, creamy Swiss cheese sauce, generously studded with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and a hint of Thousand Island dressing. Baked until golden and bubbly, then crowned with a savory crunch of fresh rye bread crumbs, this dish truly delivers the best of both worlds in one incredible, satisfying meal. It’s an experience that promises warmth, flavor, and pure comfort with every single bite.
Why This Reuben Mac and Cheese Recipe is an Absolute Winner
In our household, a meal’s success is often measured by a simple yet profound statement. If a dish is merely “fine,” it means it probably won’t be missed. “It’s good! I’d eat this again” indicates a welcome addition to the meal rotation. But there’s one phrase that truly signals a culinary triumph, a recipe that has unequivocally knocked it out of the park: “I want this for my birthday dinner!” When those words are uttered, I know I’ve struck gold.
This particular Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese recipe earned that highest praise from my youngest daughter, an avid mac and cheese connoisseur. Her reaction sparked immediate interest, even before others had tasted it. My son-in-law, upon hearing her enthusiastic declaration, exclaimed, “Wow! It must be really good!” And indeed, it was. He later messaged me after enjoying it for lunch, confirming, “I can see why she wants it for her birthday dinner; it’s seriously amazing!” This unanimous praise confirms that this unique fusion dish isn’t just good; it’s a memorable, celebration-worthy creation that will undoubtedly become a treasured favorite in your home, too.
This recipe is sponsored by Frank’s Kraut, but my lifelong love of their sauerkraut and the opinions here are all my own.
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Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese: The Epitome of Comfort Food Fusion
Time and again, polls on my Facebook page reveal a consistent truth: macaroni and cheese, alongside pasta dishes in general, reigns supreme as the ultimate comfort food. This undeniable popularity was at the forefront of my mind when I embarked on creating my annual comfort food recipe for Frank’s Kraut. My mission was clear: combine the universally adored creamy pasta with a distinct, flavorful twist.
If you’ve followed my culinary adventures for a while, you’ll know my penchant for “Reubenizing” nearly any dish. My website is brimming with a diverse collection of Reuben-inspired recipes, from casseroles to dips. Yet, a crucial omission lingered: Reuben Mac and Cheese! How could I have overlooked such a natural pairing? The oversight gnawed at me, prompting me to put on my creative thinking cap and meticulously plan this Reuben pasta masterpiece.
The concept was elegantly simple: marry my cherished baked macaroni and cheese recipe with every essential component of a traditional Reuben sandwich. This meant incorporating the robust flavors of corned beef, the piquant tang of sauerkraut, the creamy melt of Swiss cheese, and the unmistakable zest of Thousand Island dressing. To truly capture the essence of the sandwich, I even included a thoughtful touch for serving: a crunchy rye bread crumb topping, echoing the very bread upon which a classic Reuben is built. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, creating a comfort dish that’s both familiar and exhilaratingly new.
Essential Ingredients for Your Reuben Macaroni & Cheese
Crafting this extraordinary Reuben Macaroni & Cheese begins with a careful selection of ingredients that build both the creamy macaroni and cheese base and the distinctive Reuben flavors. For the lusciously rich and creamy mac and cheese, we use cellentani pasta, known for its corkscrew shape that perfectly cradles the sauce. Half-and-half provides a velvety liquid base, while butter, sour cream, and cream cheese contribute to an incredibly smooth and decadent texture. Eggs act as a binding agent, ensuring the casserole sets beautifully when baked.
To infuse it with the authentic taste of a Reuben, we add key components: generously cubed corned beef for its savory, salty depth; Frank’s Kraut for its essential tangy, briny crunch; a blend of Swiss and Provolone cheeses for that signature nutty and melty character; Thousand Island dressing to bring in a sweet and savory, creamy element; and finally, fresh rye bread, which will be toasted and transformed into a crunchy, aromatic topping, completing the Reuben experience.
(Find the complete list of ingredients with precise measurements and detailed instructions at the bottom of this post in the printable recipe card.)
Start by cooking your cellentani pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, ensuring it retains a pleasant bite that stands up to the rich sauce. Once drained, return the pasta to the pot. Into this, stir in the cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, shredded Provolone cheese, and half-and-half. Gently melt all these ingredients together over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until you achieve a wonderfully smooth and cohesive cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta.
For the corned beef, I recommend asking your deli counter to cut two thick slices, each around half a pound, for generous cubes. Alternatively, this recipe is a fantastic way to utilize any leftover corned beef you might have on hand. Cube the corned beef into bite-sized pieces. When it comes to the sauerkraut, simply drain off the majority of its liquid; there’s no need to squeeze it excessively, as a little moisture adds to the overall flavor. Now, fold the cubed corned beef, the drained Frank’s Kraut, and the Thousand Island dressing directly into your creamy pasta and cheese mixture. This step is where the classic Reuben flavors truly begin to come alive, intertwining with the comforting mac and cheese base.
In a separate medium bowl, combine the remaining melted butter with the sour cream and lightly beaten eggs. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. Then, stir in the freshly cracked black pepper and caraway seeds; these spices are crucial for adding that authentic Reuben aromatic profile. Once incorporated, gently fold this egg and sour cream mixture into the pasta in the pot. This step adds an extra layer of richness and helps bind the casserole, ensuring a cohesive and incredibly satisfying baked dish.
Now, it’s time to craft the perfect bread crumb topping that will add a delightful crunch and complete the Reuben experience. Begin by toasting about 3-4 slices of rye bread until they are crisp and golden. Cube the toasted rye bread and transfer it to a food chopper or food processor. Add in the remaining butter and some fresh parsley for color and a subtle herbaceous note. Pulse the mixture until you achieve coarse, buttery homemade rye bread crumbs. This topping is not just for texture; the distinct flavor of rye bread adds another layer of authenticity to your Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese, making every bite a symphony of flavors and textures.
Carefully spread the delicious pasta mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for approximately 30 minutes. This initial bake allows the casserole to heat through, the flavors to meld, and the cheesy sauce to become wonderfully bubbly. After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and generously sprinkle the freshly made rye bread crumb topping over the entire surface. Return it to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the mac and cheese beneath is piping hot and bubbling around the edges. This final baking stage ensures that delightful crust and perfect internal warmth.
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese from the oven. While the aroma might be incredibly tempting, it’s crucial to let it stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the casserole to set, ensuring that each scoop is perfectly cohesive and the cheese remains wonderfully creamy. Waiting is indeed the hardest part, but this step guarantees the best possible texture and flavor experience!
Just behold this culinary marvel! Rich, undeniably creamy, and bursting with the distinctive, savory flavors of a Reuben. This is a Reuben casserole reimagined, delivering comfort and bold taste in a way no other dish can. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave something truly special.
Love this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Don’t let this incredible Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese recipe slip away! Make sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board right now so you can easily find it whenever those comfort food cravings strike. You’ll thank yourself later!
Elevate Your Mac and Cheese Experience
While many grew up loving boxed mac and cheese, I was always one of those peculiar kids who preferred plain buttered noodles. The powdered cheese just never appealed to my palate. However, as I matured, I discovered the glorious world of what I affectionately call “Adult Mac and Cheese.” These elevated versions go far beyond the basic, transforming a simple dish into a gourmet experience.
I’ve had the pleasure of sharing several of my favorite elevated mac and cheese recipes with you in the past. For a luxurious seafood twist, try my Alaskan Snow Crab Macaroni and Cheese, featuring succulent crab meat. If you’re a fan of hearty, savory additions, my Loaded Mac and Cheese (packed with irresistible bacon!) is an absolute must-try. And for a zesty, flavorful kick, the Chili Cheese Mac skillet offers a wonderfully satisfying blend. These are the kinds of mac and cheese recipes I enthusiastically indulge in, and this Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese confidently joins their ranks as a truly exceptional, sophisticated comfort food.
Frank’s Kraut – The Best Sauerkraut on the Planet
My partnership in developing recipes for Frank’s Kraut has spanned the last six years, a professional journey rooted in a much deeper, lifelong love affair with their sauerkraut. Growing up with a rich Polish and German heritage, sauerkraut has always held a place of honor at our family table. It’s more than just a food; it’s a culinary tradition woven into the fabric of my life.
As I matured, I didn’t just appreciate its delicious, tangy flavor; I came to understand its remarkable health benefits. Did you know that sauerkraut is widely considered a superfood? Its fermented nature means it’s packed with beneficial properties that contribute to overall well-being. Frank’s Kraut, with its consistent quality and perfect fermentation, is truly the best choice for all your sauerkraut needs, from traditional dishes to innovative recipes like this Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese.
Outstanding Health Benefits of Sauerkraut
One of the most widely celebrated benefits of sauerkraut is its powerful ability to boost the immune system. For centuries, this humble fermented cabbage has been recognized as a natural immune enhancer. Sauerkraut is a nutritional powerhouse, brimming with essential vitamins (like C and K) and a diverse array of minerals. What makes it truly exceptional are the phytochemicals and beneficial probiotics created during the lacto-fermentation process. These naturally occurring compounds and live cultures play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which is intrinsically linked to a robust immune response.
A healthy gut flora aids in nutrient absorption and helps ward off pathogens, directly translating to a stronger defense against various health issues. Regular consumption of sauerkraut can help decrease the frequency and severity of common ailments like colds and flu, improve skin health, aid in weight management, and contribute to overall systemic vitality by supporting a well-functioning immune system. As we head into cold and flu season, incorporating a time-tested, delicious immune system booster like sauerkraut into your diet is a smart and flavorful choice. This Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese is a delicious way to get those benefits!
Explore More Delicious Sauerkraut Pasta Recipes
Beyond this fantastic Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese, I’ve created a wealth of other delightful pasta recipes featuring the incredible versatility of Frank’s Kraut. There truly is something to tempt every palate and suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a meatless marvel or a hearty, warming soup, sauerkraut can elevate your pasta dishes in unexpected ways.
Consider the traditional meatless Polish Noodles & Sauerkraut casserole, also known as Kluski Kapusta Kiszona or Polish Haluski. This comforting dish features kluski noodles, tender onion, and tangy sauerkraut, all fried in butter and then baked to perfection. For those seeking a restorative meal, my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Sauerkraut is a game-changer. Grandma always touted chicken soup for colds, but imagine the enhanced healing powers when you add a superfood like sauerkraut! Its immune-boosting properties will truly boggle your mind.
If you’re in the mood for something creamy and robust, my Creamy Kraut & Mushroom Noodles is a fantastic choice, delicious served alongside brats and easily prepared on the stovetop or even on the grill for camping adventures. And, of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my foundational Traditional Reuben Casserole, which laid the groundwork for many of these Reubenized creations. Each of these recipes showcases how Frank’s Kraut can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary.
Be sure to follow along with Frank’s Kraut on their website and their social media channels to discover delicious recipes and kraut inspiration all year long. You won’t want to miss out on their latest culinary ideas!
Connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all things sauerkraut!
I’m truly excited for you to try this amazing dish! Let’s dive into the recipe details for this incredible Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese! 
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Print Recipe
Reuben Mac ‘n Cheese
Equipment
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Franks Kraut, Shredded, Canned, 14-Ounce (Pack of 24)
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Classic Red Enamel Dutch Oven (Island Spice Red)
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KitchenAid Renewed 3.5-Cup Food Chopper
Ingredients
- 1 1 pound box cellentani pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 16 ounces Swiss cheese shredded
- 6 ounces Provolone cheese shredded
- 6 large eggs lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 stick 8 Tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seed
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 pound corned beef cubed
- 1 cup Frank’s Kraut drained
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 4 small slices Rye bread toasted
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Spray a 3-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.
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In a large pot, cook cellentani pasta according to package directions just until al dente; drain thoroughly. Return the drained pasta to the large pot. Stir in the half-and-half, softened cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, and shredded Provolone cheese. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously, until all the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Melt 6 Tablespoons of butter. In a medium bowl, whisk the large eggs together with the sour cream until well combined. Add the melted butter to the egg and sour cream mixture and mix thoroughly. Finally, stir in the caraway seeds and fresh ground black pepper.
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Cube the corned beef into small, bite-sized pieces. Drain any excess liquid from the Frank’s Kraut. Add both the cubed corned beef and the drained kraut, along with the Thousand Island dressing, into the pasta and cheese mixture in the pot. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Pour the egg mixture into the pasta mixture in the pot. Stir well to fully incorporate the egg mixture throughout the mac and cheese, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
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Spread the entire mixture into the prepared 3-quart baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
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While the casserole is baking, prepare your bread crumb topping. Add the cubed, toasted rye bread, fresh parsley, and the remaining 2 Tablespoons of butter to a food processor. Pulse until you achieve coarse, buttery bread crumbs.
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After the initial 30 minutes of baking, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the rye bread crumb mixture generously over the top of the pasta. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the mac and cheese is hot and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
Nutrition