
Reuben Dip
Of all the deli sandwiches out there, the Reuben is hands down one of my favorites. The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all squished between toasty, griddled rye bread, always hits the spot.
My inspiration in creating this recipe was taking that delicious sandwich and turning it into a hot Reuben dip. I’ve made sure it has all the flavor and pizzazz I love, while baked into a handy spread that’s perfect for any gathering.
Why I Love This Recipe
- The fact that it tastes like one of my favorite sandwiches is the most obvious reason!
- It’s effortless to put together so it always has a place at the party.
- I love creating deconstructed recipes like this Reuben dip.

Ingredients
These ingredients come together to make a dip that’s packed with all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich but in a fun, party-ready format.
- Corned beef: From the deli I ask for a 1/2 pound of corned beef in one chunk so I can dice it myself. Make sure not to use uncooked corned beef.
- Cream cheese: I always go for the full-fat version because it gives the dip that rich, creamy texture we all love.
- Swiss cheese: I shred it myself since freshly shredded cheese melts much better and makes the dip extra gooey.
- Sauerkraut: I use either jarred or fresh sauerkraut. Both work great and add that essential tangy crunch to the dip.
- Sour cream: Full-fat sour cream is a must for that smooth, creamy consistency.
- Ketchup and spicy brown mustard: These two mimic the Russian dressing in a classic Reuben sandwich, giving the dip the perfect mix of sweetness and tang.
- Rye bread, pumpernickel or white bread: I slice these into quarters and toast them to use as dippers. Bagel chips also make a great alternative if you want something a bit different.

How To Make Reuben Dip
Find the complete recipe with measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Step One: Start with preheating the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Step Two: In a medium bowl, mix up the diced corned beef, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, sour cream, ketchup, and mustard. Once it’s all blended together, spoon the dip into a greased 1-quart baking dish.
- Step Three: Bake it for about 30 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly. Serve it with some toasted bread for dipping.

Recipe Tips
- There have been times I’ve mixed in a small amount of prepared horseradish, which gave the dip a pleasant, but slightly spicy kick. I found adding that extra layer of flavor sort of echoed the zesty notes found in Russian dressing. It’s a fun addition if you like a little heat.
- Have the deli counter give you a whole chunk of already cooked, corned beef to dice up yourself.
- Sometimes, instead of just toasting the bread, I’ve brushed it with a bit of garlic butter before toasting. This added an extra layer of flavor and made the dippers even more delicious, which ultimately complemented the dip perfectly.
- I’ve served this dip to eight adults in a snack size portion. If you feel this will not be enough for your group, feel free to double the recipe and just increase baking time.
- In a pinch, I have substituted pastrami for the corned beef. The pastrami does taste different as it’s usually made with more spices, but it still works great in this recipe.
- I have made this dip on the stove top by adding all ingredients to a sauce pan over medium heat. I had to stir it often, otherwise it burned on the bottom. Once it was heated, I poured it into a warm serving dish and served it immediately.
- I’ve never done it, but I feel this dip would also come together easily in a smaller-sizer slow cooker (I would definitely use a slow cooker liner). Try cooking it on a low heat setting for about 4 hours.

More Hot and Cheesy Dips
- Jalapeno Popper Dip
- Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Easy Baked Taco Dip
- Last Minute Chili Dip
- Crab Artichoke Dip
- Italian Dip
- Salmon Dip Recipe
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Reuben Dip
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb diced corned beef from the deli counter
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp spicy brown mustard
- rye, pumpernickel or white bread for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a medium bowl, combine corned beef, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, sour cream, ketchup and mustard. Spoon into a greased, 1-quart baking dish.1/2 lb diced corned beef, 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, 1 cup sauerkraut, drained, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp spicy brown mustard
- Bake for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly and serve with toasted bread as dippers.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
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Christie@fig&cherry says
This dip is completely new to me! Sounds wonderful…
I’m yet to get to NYC – maybe next year!
Deeba says
It looks delish…you make it sound SO GOOD Cathy, I’m practically stuck to the screen!! Great pictures too…YUM!
Philly says
This looks really really good. I wish I liked corned beef
litha says
You can also use Pastrami, if you are not fond of Corned beef. That’s what I use. Because I have the same issue. And it works fine. In fact, I think it tastes better.
Mental P Mama says
Must have this. Today.
Fun House Jennifer says
Mmmmmm! This looks SO good! I think this will be my next dip for whatever party/get-togther I attend. I can’t wait to try it!
Beckynsc says
Here I am, eating my breakfast…and its just not as appetizing as the pictures on this post. I’m gonna come visit you, so I can taste test all those delicious looking foods. Hey, that’s it, I could be your food critic. Of course, it would ALWAYS be delicious!
Patricia Scarpin says
That is unusual, Cathy! And it looks delicious, too.
The first time I heard about the Reuben sandwich was watching the movie “Quiz Show”.
Jennifer says
Wow…that reminds me of a dip my husband’s cousin made. It was a buffalo chicken dip and I kid you not, I could have eaten my weight in it. Easily.
Bellini Valli says
And it’s baked too with all it’s cheesy goodness:D
Starwoodgal says
That looks fantastic!
clumbsycookie says
A baked dip? Cool Cathy! Pretty cool!
Nell says
Uh oh. I just popped a button.
Marjie says
Nothing like pastrami or corned beef for a great sandwich! I love reubens, but haven’t had one in years. Damn! Now I want one and it’s only 10AM!
marye says
Cathy,
looks fantastic…think I could eat the whole thing.
threeundertwo says
I’m so there. I love baked dips.
krysta says
i just had a reuben sandwich yesterday! i love them…. i bet this dip would be like artichoke dip for me… i could eat it all in one sitting.
Laura says
I had to visit because 2 of my favorite bloggers, Cheryl and Threeundertwo, always have your noble name popping up on their sites. I think I will visit here as well….any place with food and wine is my kinda place. (And I am in love with the fact that you have spell check since I make errors on every comment I leave.)
Cheryl says
How long ’til lunch? YUM! Your photos always make me so ravenous!
[Thank you for your kind words on my 9/11 post. Peace, and God Bless Us, All.]
Debbie in CA : ) says
Yummy! I must try this! : )
ELRA says
Cathy,
I can’t say anything then I am bookmarking this dip!
Anna says
Hmm, I’m torn here. I don’t like Reubens – I think sauerkraut is disgusting and I’m not a HUGE fan of corned beef. But this dip looks so delicious! Maybe I’ll take it to a party or something – if I don’t like it, I’m sure there are others who will!
Rachel (S[d]OC) says
Cute idea. I love reubens. I’m afraid I’d eat the whole pan if I made this.
Blond Duck says
The perfect thing to serve my German-descendant in-laws! Thanks!
Deborah says
Delicious! That’s all I have to say!
Leslie says
YUMMO..that is one mighty fine lookin dip!
Lo (from Burp!) says
Being a HOPELESS reuben fan, and a corned beef Devotee, I am quite endeared to the idea of this recipe. 🙂
Like Rachel, I’m a bit afraid of what I could do with a whole pile of this dip! YUM.
Barbie with a T says
This was delicious. I loved how authentic it was.
ntsc says
Have to tell wife to put Reubens on the menu next weekend, I’ve even home-smoked beef pastrami in the freezer.
TashOysterblogger says
Reubens are my second most favorite food on the planet. I have never heard of or thought of this, though. Thanks I am gonna try it!! Just what I needed..to snack on rueben dip all day and watch it attach itself to my thighs!!
TSannie/annbb says
Looks wonderful – to me. Must say I’d be the only one eating it in my family.
maybelles mom says
If you love Reuben sandwiches, you have to try this Reuben dip. It’s creamy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with toasted rye bread. A hit at any gathering!
Asthmagirl says
Cathy, as always this looks really good. The Old Goat loves a Reuben and this looks like something that would be perfect to make when watching football.
Yum!
LarryG says
that looks so yummy!
i can’t wait to try it…
if you’ve already put it in the fridge i’ll just pop it in the microwave for bit!
lol
seriously i am making that one
Sandie says
Have mercy! My husband might just take me away for a long, romantic weekend if I start making this dip (or real reubens) often enough.
Rechelle says
Reubens are the best sandwich in the world. Bierocks a close second.
Dr. John says
That looks great. Another receipe to print out. Your creating a book.
dawn says
Oh I would so be that guest at the buffet table standing right next to this dish, and Jerry Seinfeld would be behind me yelling “no double dipping!”
kimberleyblue says
Yum! Looks and sounds sooo good. Can dip be considered an entire meal?
Amber says
Thank you so much for the sweet comment on Bethany. I never leave comments in order to get one, just if I find the article, recipe or person interesting, so I always appreciate it when one is left for me. After reading what I wrote I am sure it makes even more sense about my comment about how blessed you are when I saw your boys. That said…you have a great sense of humor, so when you have a minute go back and read the post under 9-11 about Devil Cat, I think you will enjoy it. Be blessed.
Karen Deborah says
drooling again.
Amber says
I think I deleted my comment. Shit! Okay, thank you so much for the sweet comment on Bethany. I never leave comments in order to get one, just if I find the site or the person or the recipe interesting so when I get one I really appreciate it. Now you understand why I said you are so blessed. It just goes too fast and she is my youngest. You have a great sense of humor, so when you have a minute, go back and read the post underneath called Devil Cat. I think you will enjoy it. Oh and I do NOT eat rye, ever. Would this go well with a heavy grained wheat?
Scary Mommy says
Cathy, Will you marry me? Reubens are my ALL TIME favorite thing. The combo is heavenly. When I was pregnant I gained 70 pound EVERY time. I attribute that mainly to my daily reuben at the Jewish Deli. But, man, they were goooood. I will be making this soon.
Mrs. L says
I made this Reuben dip for a party, and it was a huge hit! Everyone loved the rich, cheesy flavor and the tangy sauerkraut. Definitely making it again!
Katie says
I can’t wait to try this for a football party this weekend. Um, can someone tell me where to buy corn beef? I couldn’t find it at the grocery store tonight. Do I need to cook it at all before putting it in with the dip? Thanks! I’m a newbie when it comes to cooking…
Bunny says
This would be a wear the elastic waist pants kinda food cause I ain’t gonna stop eating it once I start.
Cathy says
Just go to the deli area of your supermarket where they slice lunch meats. Ask for a 1/2 pound of corned beef in one big slice. It’s already cooked so just chop it up and add it to the dip.
Super Easy!
Cassie says
OMG that loooooks divine!!!!!!!!!
Daziano says
Hmmmm!!! Looks perfect for a party!
giz says
I wouldn’t have thought of that in a million years but what a fantastic concept. You win the prize – I just don’t know what it is yet.
Dee says
I just made a sauerkraut and smoked knuckle thingy, and now have half a jar sulking in the fridge. Thought I’d have to chuck it out so this is perfect. Thanks!
JacqueOH says
LOL, I’ve really enjoyed looking around your website… how fun!
This dip looks fantastic! I love, love, love reubens. Thanks for sharing.
P.S. my boys were Tiger and Bear Cubs last year 🙂
Queen of Planet Hotflash says
Just finished making this for hubby tonight for a snack later. He will be thrilled it smells soooooo wonderful!
chefectomy says
Totally and completely YUMMMMMMY.
–Marc
tipper says
Easy and delicious!!
grace says
mounds of mustard always look so unseemly, but ya gotta have it. 🙂
great dip. ’tis a dip day. 🙂
Natty says
I brought this Reuben dip to a potluck, and it was the star of the show! The flavors were spot on, and everyone kept asking for the recipe. A must-try for Reuben lovers!
alexandra's kitchen says
oh wow. you’re a genius. this looks unbelievable delicious. perfect for football season.
Rindy R says
I can’t get enough of this Reuben dip. It’s packed with flavor and so easy to make. The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut is simply irresistible.
Pam says
Oh my. I love those mini rye bread slices… my mom used to buy them when I was a kid. The dip is perfect and I can’t wait to make it.
michael says
F**K Me that looks good. You are a GENIUS. Perhaps fry up pieces of rye bread with butter, kinda like a crouton, and throw them into the mix…eat the damn thing with a spoon! OR large pieces of bread, shingled, you’ve got a damn reuben casserole! I need a Dr. Brown’s Black Cherry and a trip to the store…Later!
Ruth says
i will, yet again, have to make this! but something tat struck me about this was the corned beef in the picture. i knew english and US foods differ, but i never guessed that would be the case with corned beef. yours (http://www.americanfoodsgroup.com/afg/upld/file_Cornedbeefplate.jpg) doesnt look quite so ‘corned’ as ours (http://www.dkimages.com/discover/DKIMAGES/Discover/previews/813/10087701.JPG). sure it will work just as well in the dip though!
Gina says
I served this Reuben dip at my last get-together, and it was gone within minutes. The garlic butter toast tips really made the dippers stand out. This recipe is a keeper!
Julie says
This Reuben dip is out of this world! The combination of melted Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut is just perfect. It’s like enjoying a Reuben sandwich in every bite.
dlyn says
That looks so good. My grandmother used to make a reuben casserole that involved horrid substances like that canned corned beef stuff and refigerator biscuits – it tasted divine though!
Egghead says
As a Reuben sandwich lover, I have to say this dip nails it! The creamy texture and perfect blend of flavors make it a standout appetizer. Highly recommend giving it a try.
Katie says
Thanks! It was a big hit today. 🙂
gaga says
Made this Reuben dip for a family gathering, and everyone was asking for the recipe. The caramelized sauerkraut added such a wonderful touch. Best dip ever!
Elle says
Oh! This looks heavenly, fantastic, and totally delicious!
Saving this one for game days, for sure.
heather says
This hot Reuben dip is my new go-to party dish. It’s got all the flavors I love from a Reuben sandwich, but in a fun, shareable form. Absolutely delicious!
mindy says
Whoa! Great idea; I am on a kraut kick, and I love me a reuben. Looks like a true crowd-pleaser. Thanks for sharing.
Lennie says
I am soooo behind in my blog reading, but when I saw this today I stopped dead in my tracks. Well, that’s a lie ’cause I wasn’t walking around while reading, but anyway……..
This looks FANTASTIC! I can’t wait to try it 🙂
==Lennie
jodycakes says
Reuben dip is a game-changer! The addition of horseradish added just the right amount of kick. I could eat this every day. So good!
Madeline says
I’m not usually a big fan of dips, but this Reuben dip won me over. The blend of cheeses and tangy sauerkraut is perfection. Will definitely be making this again soon.
Jessica says
I have a recipe very similar to this, however, it calls for Thousand Island dressing instead of ketchup & mustard. It also does not have sour cream in it, just cream cheese. My recipe uses a small crockpot to warm the dip instead of using an oven. The dip is delicious!
pam says
Id love to have your recipe. ……..
Jodi says
I am going to put this in the middle of a sourdough round and serve it at my Halloween party! Thank you for a great idea.
Pam says
This is the absolute best way to share a recipe! Love the pictures – am making this for a dinner party in Nov.
thanks!!
Chris says
I made a double batch of this for a party today, and it was a huge hit. Definitely a keeper! I couldn’t find any of the cocktail rye bread, but we used Triscuit Rye crackers (I never even knew they made rye ones until yesterday) and they were great with it.
Kristin says
I made this for Father’s Day and it was a big hit!! The family loved it!! I will be making this again!!
theungourmet says
Reubens are my favorite too! I like Turkey Reubens as well. I haven’t been to NY yet.
Your dip looks absolutely terrific! :p
Carol Doubblestein says
Everything sounds yummy. Want more!!
BethieofVA says
Making this tomorrow for a baby shower! I can NOT wait!!
BethieofVA says
Okay, made this today and one thing, oh how I wished I had doubled the recipe. It is FANTASTIC and was a huge hit!!! Thank you!!!!!
Tyler says
I made a double batch of this for my wedding shower and it went before I got a chance to try it. I added Russian dressing instead of ketchup and put extra Swiss on top before putting it under the broiler for a few. Thanks for the recipe I hope to get a chance and eat it another time!
lesa says
my friend used rye triscuits. so good!
BBBB says
I am making this for a graduation pot-luck today – I can’t wait to taste it!!
Patti says
I made this for a fun dinner last night and my mom, sis and I devoured it! The only changes I made were that I used Buddig chipped beef and we toasted the cocktail rye breads on a baking sheet in the oven for a few minutes. Toasting the bread makes all the difference! Thanks for this great recipe!
Julie says
Do you cook the corned beef before making/mixing?
Cathy says
I use the corned beef already cooked from the deli. Just have them cut you a thick piece and then cube it.
Cass says
Bless you for this recipe; it has eclipsed Hot Artichoke Dip as the favorite at big parties here. At our last Christmas party, my sister loved this dip so much she crawled right up into the dish to scrape out the very last bits.
Ruined her slacks, but she said it was worth it.
Your recipes are fabulous, and REAL.
Meeting you and visiting your vineyard was amazing. Thank you.
Cass
Cathy says
Thanks Cass, I appreciate it!
Tracey says
this looks fantastic! I’d love to try this at my parent’s house cause my dad loves Ruben sandwiches and I had my first Ruben with my dad.
Brandi F. says
I will be making this for an appetizer on Thanksgiving 🙂
Roberta says
Had a birthday party for Husband and served this to my guest. They Loved it!!!!!!
Fast and easy to put together. I made two dishes of Reuben dip the day. About an half hour before guest arrived, put in oven bake. Everyone loved it!
Rene says
Since Im allergic to red meat, I substituted the corned beef in this recipe with cubed turkey meat. Tastes really good. =)
Brenda says
Hoping i can do this in a crockpot. what do you think?
Cathy says
You could try it, let me know how it goes.
Lisa says
I’ve heated mine in a mini-crock several times. It’s just as good that way.
Rebecca Haley says
Made it tonight for Super Bowl, it was amazing!
Christine says
I made this Reuben dip for a game night, and it was a total crowd-pleaser. The rich, savory flavors and creamy texture were a big hit. Definitely adding this to my regular appetizer rotation!
Sherrie says
This is the third time I’ve cooked a corned beef, just to be able to make this with the leftovers! Yum!
Annabelle says
I will admit that I didn’t take the time to read all the comments so please forgive me if someone else asked this question. I must make this but I’m not familiar with corned beef. Did you buy hunks of it from a deli department in the grocery store or do you have to actually make a corned beef (in the crockpot kind of recipe)? Your corned beef looks thicker than just buying sliced corned beef. Thanks so much.
Cathy says
Instead of having the deli slice corned beef for you, have them slice one big piece and then chop into cubes for this recipe.
Annabelle says
Thanks Cathy. I should have looked at your very sharp and beautiful photo of the ingredients at the top of the page. Clearly shows your thickly sliced corned beef.
Sharon S. says
I came across this recipe a few days ago while perusing Pinterest for something fun to make for our family Christmas party. Let me tell you, it was a HIT!!! The only thing I would say is that we ended up using crackers we had for another spread more than the cocktail rye bread which seemed a little too dry for this recipe. Obviously, that wasn’t an issue with the recipe, though. This was delicious and will definitely be made again. And again!
Marla says
looks delicious, but the ingredient list that I’m seeing is missing the sauerkraut. how much do you use?
Cathy says
1 cup.
Fran says
This Reuben Dip looks wonderful! However, the picture looks like cheddar cheese on top and it calls for swiss. Is there any cheddar in it? Thanks!
Cathy says
No there’s not.
Myra Rogers says
This looks yummy. I think I will try it!!
I will comment when I make it to let you know what I think.
Sharon S. says
I posted here a few months ago after I made this to-die-for dish the first time. I made it again today for a potluck dinner, and this time, I mixed about 2/3 cup Panko bread crumbs with 2 tablespoon or so of softened butter and sprinkled it over the top before putting it in the oven. Oh my goodness, was it ever delicious! Then I wished I had thought to make fine bread crumbs with rye bread instead of the Panko crumbs. Can’t wait to try it like that next time!
Sarah says
Do I cook the corned beef before putting it into the dip?
Cathy says
Corned beef should be purchased from the deli where it is already cooked.
Ana says
Such a delicious dip! Making again for St. Patrick’s Day!
Susan P says
We loved this so much. But to be honest I think my husband ate most of it! Time to make it again!
Toni says
This was a really huge hit with my family! Everyone enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing!
Joe B says
My suggestion to making this vegetarian would be to use canned Black Beans or Vegetarian Refried Beans instead of the Corned Beef. Another suggestion would be to use Russian Dressing instead of the Ketchup and Spicy Brown Mustard
Cathy Pollak says
You could use black beans, but wow it’s going to taste REALLY DIFFERENT. Just remember, black beans don’t have the same salty, savory profile as corned beef, you will want to add extra seasoning. I would consider adding smoked paprika, cumin, or even a splash of soy sauce to give the beans a more robust flavor. As far as Russian dressing, there’s a few reasons I didn’t use it in this recipe. Control Over Flavor: By using ketchup and spicy brown mustard, I had more control over the balance of sweetness, tanginess, and spice and found the perfect balance I preferred when creating this recipe. Next was, AVAILABILITY. Ketchup and spicy brown mustard are pretty common pantry staples, making them more readily available than Russian dressing, which ultimately simplifies the ingredient list, making sure you can make the dip even if you don’t have Russian dressing on hand. Lastly, I considered CONSISTENCY. Russian dressing varies more by brand than ketchup and mustard do. By sticking with ketchup and mustard, I was able to offer a more consistent and predictable flavor profile each time someone makes the dip. Certainly, if you prefer the convenience of using Russian dressing or have a favorite brand, you can certainly substitute it for the ketchup and mustard combination in the recipe. It all depends on your personal preference and the flavor profile you’re aiming for or care about. These are just some of the things I consider when a developing a recipe for lots of people. Thanks for the suggestions, I always appreciate them.