Walking into my kitchen after a long day, the craving hits me—a warm Reuben sandwich, but who has the time to make one from scratch? Enter the Keto Reuben in a Bowl, my go-to solution that packs all the classic flavors without the fuss. This low-carb delight is a game-changer, featuring tender corned beef, gooey Swiss cheese, and a creamy Russian dressing—all in one easy bowl that mirrors the comforting vibes of its sandwich counterpart. With only 5 grams of net carbs per serving, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want comfort food that won’t derail your diet. Plus, the minimal clean-up means you can savor your favorite flavors without the stress. So, are you ready to take your taste buds on a delicious low-carb adventure?
Why is this bowl a game-changer?
Simplicity: This Keto Reuben in a Bowl is ultra-easy to whip up, perfect for busy evenings when you lack time to cook.
Flavorful Comfort: Indulge in a hearty blend of savory corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and tangy Russian dressing that satisfies your cravings without the carbs.
Versatile Base: Use coleslaw or switch it up with lettuce for a fresh twist—options abound!
Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this dish, whether on a keto diet or just seeking delicious comfort food.
Minimal Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying this delightful meal, much like our Ground Beef Bowls.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead for quick lunches; it keeps well in the fridge for easy reheating during the week.
Keto Reuben in a Bowl Ingredients
For the Bowl
- Coleslaw Mix – Acts as a crunchy base for the bowl; try substituting with shredded lettuce or sauerkraut for a zesty twist.
- Corned Beef – The star of the dish, bringing that classic Reuben flavor; consider using turkey for a lighter protein option.
- Butter – Enhances flavor and helps sauté the beef; olive oil is a great dairy-free substitute.
- Swiss Cheese – Provides a gooey, creamy texture; feel free to swap with provolone or mozzarella if preferred.
- Scallions – Adds a fresh burst of flavor as a garnish; optional, but chives work well as a substitute.
For the Russian Dressing
- Mayonnaise – The creamy foundation of the dressing; use light mayo to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Sugar-Free Ketchup – Infuses sweetness and tang; regular ketchup can increase carb count, so opt for the sugar-free version for a Keto Reuben in a Bowl.
- Horseradish – Introduces a lively kick; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Hot Sauce – Optional for an extra spicy zing, tailor it according to your heat preference.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Enriches the overall depth and umami flavor; choose low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Salt/Pepper – Essential for amplifying flavors; season to your taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Keto Reuben In A Bowl
Step 1: Sauté the Corned Beef
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling but not browned, add in 8 ounces of sliced corned beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is heated through and slightly crispy at the edges, releasing its delicious aroma.
Step 2: Add the Coleslaw
Next, stir in 4 cups of coleslaw mix to the skillet, ensuring it combines well with the corned beef. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften and meld with the flavors. You’ll notice the mix becoming tender yet still crunchy—perfect for our Keto Reuben in a Bowl.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Once the coleslaw is ready, reduce the heat to low and evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and gooey. This step ensures each bite of your Keto Reuben in a Bowl has that creamy, dreamy texture everyone loves.
Step 4: Prepare the Russian Dressing
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of sugar-free ketchup, 1 tablespoon of horseradish, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. This quick preparation adds that signature tang and creaminess, perfectly complementing the savory layers of the dish.
Step 5: Serve the Bowl
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Using a spatula, scoop the cheesy corned beef and coleslaw mixture into serving bowls. Drizzle generously with your homemade Russian dressing and garnish with chopped scallions for a fresh pop of flavor. Enjoy your comforting Keto Reuben In A Bowl right away!
Expert Tips for Keto Reuben in a Bowl
- **Heat the Skillet: **Ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the corned beef; this will help achieve the perfect sear, enhancing flavor.
- Stir Regularly: Stir the mixture consistently while cooking to prevent burning, and adjust the heat if necessary to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the dish to cool completely before portioning for meal prep to prevent the coleslaw from becoming soggy in the fridge.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap corned beef with turkey for a lighter version or add extra veggies for nutrition; the focus keyword is Keto Reuben in a Bowl.
- Cheese Melting Tip: For an extra gooey texture, broil the dish briefly after adding the cheese; just keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking!
- Meal Prep Magic: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches throughout the week.
What to Serve with Keto Reuben in a Bowl
When you’re craving a comforting low-carb meal, the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture create a delightful contrast to the savory bowl, making each bite exciting.
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Garlic Butter Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with garlic butter adds a fresh and vibrant touch that balances the hearty flavors of the bowl.
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Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, cauliflower rice serves as a perfect low-carb side, effortlessly soaking up the delicious juices from the Keto Reuben.
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Coleslaw Salad: A fresh coleslaw on the side provides a crunchy texture and a pop of brightness, harmonizing beautifully with the dish’s richness.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tangy bite from pickled cucumbers or carrots cuts through the richness, enhancing every other flavor on your plate.
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Zucchini Noodles: They offer a light base that complements the boldness of the Keto Reuben, perfect for those who crave a pasta-like texture with fewer carbs.
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Keto-Friendly Beer: Enjoy a crisp keto-friendly beer to elevate your meal; its carbonation contrasts well with the creamy textures in the bowl.
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Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich keto dark chocolate mousse rounds off the meal, providing a sweet yet low-carb indulgence to satisfy your cravings.
Keto Reuben in a Bowl Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this delightful dish your own with these tasty twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Swiss cheese with your favorite dairy-free cheese for an equally creamy experience.
- Vegetarian: Replace corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh; it brings an umami flavor without the meat.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium corned beef and Worcestershire sauce to make this dish even healthier for sodium-sensitive diets.
- Extra Crunch: Top your bowl with crushed pork rinds or crispy onions right before serving for a delightful crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat of your Keto Reuben in a Bowl!
- Zesty Dressing: Mix your Russian dressing with a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra zing, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Meal Prep Twist: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately, like how I do for my trusty Ground Beef Bowls, so it stays fresh until you’re ready to enjoy.
- Loaded Bowl: Add diced avocados or even more veggies like bell peppers to increase nutrition and flavor complexity.
With these variations, you’re sure to keep your taste buds tingling while enjoying the comforting goodness of Keto Reuben in a Bowl!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Keto Reuben in a Bowl in advance can be a real lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can cook the corned beef and coleslaw mix up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the beef with the coleslaw as directed, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container to refrigerate. Keep the Swiss cheese and Russian dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the dish’s creamy texture and freshness. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, heat the mixture gently on the stovetop, then top with the cheese and cover until melted before drizzling with dressing. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting Keto Reuben in a Bowl ready with minimal hassle!
Storage Tips for Keto Reuben in a Bowl
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to store longer, freeze the Keto Reuben in a Bowl in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating; just cover to retain moisture.
Meal Prep: This dish is fantastic for meal prep! Portion it out into containers, ensuring that Russian dressing is stored separately to keep the coleslaw crisp until you’re ready to indulge.
Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of coleslaw mix should I use?
You can use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix for convenience, or I often recommend shredding your own cabbage and carrots for freshness. If you’re looking for variety, sauerkraut offers a tangy alternative that adds an extra kick!
How long can I store leftovers of the Keto Reuben in a Bowl?
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to preserve its freshness and prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze the Keto Reuben in a Bowl?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Keto Reuben in a Bowl in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burns.
What should I do if I don’t have horseradish for the dressing?
No horseradish? No problem! You could substitute it with a touch of Dijon mustard for a similar zesty flavor, or even use a spicy ketchup if you prefer. Adjust according to your taste; the essence of the dressing is about balancing creamy and tangy flavors.
Is this dish safe for pets?
Keep in mind that this Keto Reuben in a Bowl contains ingredients like onion (from the scallions) and Worcestershire sauce that are not safe for dogs and cats. So, while it’s a delicious meal for you, your furry friends should stick to their pet food!
What if I want to make a vegetarian version of the Keto Reuben in a Bowl?
To create a vegetarian version, you can swap out the corned beef for grilled mushrooms or tempeh, and add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for flavor and texture. Combine with the same cheesy goodness and Russian dressing, and you’re all set for a hearty meat-free meal!
Keto Reuben in a Bowl: Comforting Low Carb Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add 8 ounces of sliced corned beef and sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
- Stir in 4 cups of coleslaw mix, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender yet crunchy.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese over the mixture, cover, and let sit for 2-3 minutes until melted.
- In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup, 1 tablespoon horseradish, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
- Scoop the mixture into serving bowls, drizzle with Russian dressing, and garnish with chopped scallions. Enjoy!
