Reuben Dip Recipe is the ultimate party appetizer that brings everyone together. I discovered this gem years ago for a last-minute get-together, and now itโs my go-to for everything from game days to holiday gatherings.

It takes all the irresistible flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, and transforms them into a warm, creamy, and utterly addictive dip.
The first time I served it, even my sauerkraut-skeptic uncle couldn’t get enough, and ever since, itโs been the dish people ask for again and again. Itโs incredibly easy to whip up, and the aroma of it bubbling in the oven is pure comfort. This isnโt just a dip; itโs a conversation starter and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for just one more scoop.
Table of Contents
Why Youโll Love This Reuben Dip Recipe
This isn’t just any dip, it’s the kind of recipe that makes people hover around the snack table until every last bite is gone. Here’s why it’s become my absolute favorite:
- Crowd-pleasing flavors: It captures everything we adore about Reuben sandwiches, the salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, in one irresistible scoop.
- Effortless prep: Just mix, bake, and serve! No fancy techniques required, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile serving: Goes great with everything from rye bread to pretzels to veggie sticks, so you can please every guest.
- Always a hit: Even sauerkraut skeptics can’t resist this creamy, cheesy version.
- Perfect make-ahead: Tastes even better when prepped ahead, giving you more time to enjoy your party.
Ingredients for Reuben Dip Recipe
Okay, let’s talk ingredients, this is where the magic happens! Here’s what you’ll need to create that perfect Reuben flavor explosion (and yes, every single one matters!):
- 1 pound corned beef: Chop it into tiny, bite-sized pieces (I like the pre-cooked kind for ease, but leftovers from St. Paddy’s Day work great too!)
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese: Shred it yourself for maximum meltiness (those pre-shredded bags have anti-caking agents that can make things grainy)
- 14-ounce can sauerkraut: Key tip: Drain it really well, I press mine in a sieve and even pat it with paper towels to avoid a watery dip
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Full-fat for creaminess, please! This is party food, after all
- 2/3 cup Thousand Island dressing The secret flavor bridge that ties everything together
- Fresh parsley: Just a sprinkle for that pop of color and freshness
See? Simple stuff, most of these probably live in your fridge already. Now let’s make some dip magic!

How to Make Reuben Dip Recipe
Alright, letโs get to the fun part, making this cheesy, tangy masterpiece! I promise, itโs so easy youโll wonder why you havenโt been making it every weekend. Just follow these simple steps, and youโll have a dip thatโll steal the show at any gathering.
Prep the Ingredients
First things first, letโs get everything ready to go. Trust me, taking a few extra minutes here makes all the difference in the final result.
- Corned Beef: Chop it into small, bite-sized pieces (about ยผ-inch). I like to use kitchen shears; itโs faster than a knife, and you get nice, even bits.
- Swiss Cheese: Shred it fresh! Pre-shredded cheese has that pesky anti-caking powder that can make your dip grainy. A box grater works perfectly here.
- Sauerkraut: This is crucial, drain it really well. I dump mine into a fine mesh sieve and press with a spoon to squeeze out every last drop of liquid. Then, I pat it dry with paper towels. Too much moisture = watery dip disaster.
Mix and Bake
Now, letโs bring it all together. Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) while you mix; this ensures even baking right from the start.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, and that perfectly drained sauerkraut.
- Add the mayonnaise and Thousand Island dressing. Mix gently but thoroughly; you want every ingredient coated in that creamy goodness.
- Transfer the mixture to an 8×8-inch baking dish (or similar size). Spread it evenly and press lightly so it bakes uniformly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Youโll know itโs done when the edges are bubbly, the top turns golden brown, and your kitchen smells like a deli heaven.
Pro tip: If you want extra browning, pop it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end, just watch it like a hawk so it doesnโt burn! Now, grab your favorite dippers and dive in.

Tips for the Best Reuben Dip Recipe
After making this dip more times than I can count (and fielding endless recipe requests), Iโve picked up some game-changing tricks that take it from good to “can I have the bowl, please?” status. Hereโs how I make sure every batch is perfect:
- Cheese switch-up: Try mixing half Swiss and half Gruyรจre for a richer, more complex flavor; the nuttiness plays so well with the corned beef!
- Make-ahead magic: Assemble the dip a day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. The flavors meld beautifully, and you just pop it in the oven when guests arrive.
- Crispy top trick: For extra texture, sprinkle reserved cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking, it creates this irresistible golden crust.
- Sauerkraut secret: If youโre not a fan of strong tang, rinse the sauerkraut before draining, it mellows the flavor while keeping that essential Reuben character.
- Temperature matters: Let it sit 5 minutes after baking, this helps it set up perfectly for dipping without being lava-hot.
Serving Suggestions for Reuben Dip Recipe
Now for the best part, what to dunk into this glorious dip! I’ve tried it with just about everything, and here are my absolute favorite pairings:
- Rye everything: Toasted rye bread cubes, rye crackers, or even mini rye toast points, that caraway flavor is a match made in heaven.
- Crunchy veggies: Bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds, or endive leaves for a fresh contrast to the rich dip.
- Pretzel power: Mini pretzel twists or rods add the perfect salty crunch.
- Unexpected twist: Try it with sliced apples, the sweetness plays off the tangy dip surprisingly well!
Pro tip: Set out an assortment. I always do at least one bread, one cracker, and one veggie option. That way, everyone finds their perfect bite!

Storage and Reheating
Good news, this dip actually gets better after a night in the fridge! Store any leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have some) in an airtight container for 3-4 days. When reheating, skip the microwave; it makes the texture weird.
Instead, pop it back in a 350ยฐF oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly again. I sometimes add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating to bring back that golden perfection. Works like a charm every time!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s be real, this is party food, not health food! But if you’re curious, here’s the scoop per serving (about ยฝ cup):
Roughly 250 calories, 20g fat, and 10g protein. Remember, these values are estimates; they’ll vary based on your exact ingredients. Now go enjoy that cheesy goodness guilt-free!
FAQs About Reuben Dip Recipe
Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Absolutely! Pastrami makes a delicious substitute if that’s what you have on hand. The flavor profile is slightly different (hello, pepper crust!), but it still pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Just be sure to chop it small, like you would the corned beef.
What if I can’t find sauerkraut?
In a pinch, you can use well-drained dill pickle relish or even chopped dill pickles. The texture changes a bit, but you’ll still get that essential tangy crunch. My sister once used kimchi when she was out of sauerkraut, surprisingly tasty, though definitely not traditional!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
You bet! Mix everything as directed, then cook on LOW for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The edges might get a bit crusty (which I love!), but you can stir them back in. Great for keeping it warm during parties!
Is there a lighter version?
I’ve had success using light mayo and reduced-fat cheese, though the texture won’t be quite as luscious. For gluten-free folks, just check that your Thousand Island dressing is GF; most are!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Honestly, I don’t recommend it; the dairy can separate when thawed. But it keeps beautifully in the fridge for several days, and reheats like a dream. Just pretend you meant to have leftovers all along!
Crowd-Pleasing Party Dips & Appetizers to Try
If this Reuben Dip Recipe was a hit, here are more easy, savory, and addictive party appetizers your readers will love serving at game nights, holidays, or gatherings.
- Loaded Baked Potato Dip: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bacon, perfect with chips or veggies.
- Italian Sub Sliders: Mini sandwiches loaded with meats, cheese, and zesty dressing, great for parties.
- Dill Pickle Pinwheels: Tangy, creamy, bite-size appetizers that always disappear fast.
- Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps: Quick, melty, and flavorful wraps that make an easy snack or lunch.
These easy appetizers are flavorful, fun to share, and perfect for any occasion, serve one next and watch them disappear!
Did You Make This Reuben Dip Recipe?
I’d love to hear how your dip turned out! Did your guests go crazy for it like mine always do? Maybe you put your own spin on it, swapped the cheese, added a secret ingredient, or discovered the perfect dipper combo.
Drop me a comment below with your experience (and any brilliant tweaks you made)! And if this recipe became your new party staple like it did for me, I’d be thrilled if you gave it a rating, as it helps other dip enthusiasts find this cheesy goodness too. Now go forth and dip responsibly, my friends! And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more recipes.
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Reuben Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
This Reuben Dip captures all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a warm, savory dip perfect for parties or cozy nights. Made with tender chopped corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound corned beef, chopped
- 8 ounces shredded Swiss cheese
- 14-ounce can sauerkraut, well drained
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2/3 cup Thousand Island dressing
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop the corned beef into bite-sized pieces or small bits. Shred the Swiss cheese if not pre-shredded. Drain and press the sauerkraut using a fine mesh sieve or clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture, preventing a watery dip.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, mayonnaise, and Thousand Island dressing. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is evenly combined.
- Spread in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture and spread it evenly into an 8×8-inch baking dish, pressing lightly to flatten the surface for even cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish into a preheated oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Bake for 30 minutes or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm with rye chips, toasted rye bread slices, crackers, or pretzels for dipping.
Notes
- For a richer dip, use a blend of Swiss and Gruyere cheese.
- Prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to develop more robust flavors.
- Serve with a variety of dippers like toasted rye bread, crackers, or vegetables for a versatile appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Reuben Dip, party dip, corned beef dip, easy appetizer