Keto Reuben in a Bowl
There’s something incredibly comforting about the Keto Reuben in a Bowl. This delectable dish invites you to savor a fusion of rich flavors—the tenderness of corned beef, tangy notes from the dressing, and the satisfying crunch of coleslaw, all elevated by the creamy melt of Swiss cheese. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, blending savory and sweet, making your taste buds tingle with anticipation. In this step-by-step recipe, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up a hearty, satisfying meal that aligns with your keto lifestyle.
History / Fun Fact
The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli favorite, has a storied past that often raises the question: Who invented it? Believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century, one popular narrative attributes the creation of the Reuben to a Jewish grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky in Omaha, Nebraska. This iconic sandwich features layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, all nestled between slices of rye bread. However, the Keto Reuben in a Bowl takes this classic and transforms it into a low-carb, gluten-free delight, ensuring those adhering to a keto diet can enjoy the same comforting flavors without the guilt.
Ingredients
- 1 bag coleslaw mix: This vibrant blend of finely shredded cabbage and carrots adds a fresh, crunchy texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- 1 pound corned beef, cut into strips: The star of the show, this succulent, tender meat is brimming with bold flavor thanks to its spices and curing.
- 2-3 tbsp butter: Rich and creamy, butter adds a savory depth while helping to sauté the corned beef to perfection.
- 1 cup Swiss cheese: Melty and nutty, Swiss cheese brings an irresistible creaminess that binds the dish together.
- Scallions: These fresh, green onions not only brighten the dish but also introduce a gentle sharpness that enhances its flavor.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: This luscious base adds richness and creaminess to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup: For those familiar with the tangy notes of traditional Reuben sauces, this ketchup provides the necessary zing without the unwanted sugars.
- 4 tsp horseradish: Offering a subtle heat, horseradish adds complexity and an aromatic kick to the dish.
- 1 tsp hot sauce: A dash of hot sauce heightens the flavors with a fiery twist.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: This sauce introduces a umami richness that deepens the flavor profile of the dressing.
- 1/2 tsp salt: A touch of salt enhances the flavors overall.
- Pinch of pepper: A sprinkle of pepper to add warmth.
Cooking Time & Tips For Keto Reuben in a Bowl
This wonderful dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an uncomplicated yet delicious option for busy weeknights. Quick preparation involves sautéing the ingredients on the stovetop, while slow preparation would entail longer cooking times to let the flavors meld more deeply, although for this recipe, quick is the way to go.
To ensure your Keto Reuben in a Bowl is a success:
- Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality corned beef, preferably nitrate-free, for the best flavor.
- Cheese Choice: Opt for a good melting Swiss cheese for that signature creamy finish.
- Taste Test: Adjust the dressing to your liking—more horseradish for heat or more mayonnaise for creaminess.
Step-by-Step Directions
Start by heating 2-3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The rich scent of melting butter sets the stage for the dish ahead. Add in your strips of corned beef and allow them to cook for about 5 minutes. As the beef sizzles, it releases a delightful aroma, inviting everyone in the home to gather around the kitchen.
Once the beef is beautifully browned, sprinkle in the bag of coleslaw mix and cover the skillet, allowing it to cook for another 5 minutes. This helps the cabbage wilt slightly, combining with the corned beef for a harmonious blend of textures.
Now, it’s time to transform this skillet mix into a cheesy delight! Stir the mixture well, and generously top with Swiss cheese. Cover the skillet again, allowing the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden layer. For an added touch, you can broil it briefly to achieve a delightful crust.
While the cheese is melting away, it’s the perfect moment to prepare the dressing. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and a dash of pepper. The dressing is creamy, zesty, and utterly addictive—just like the Reuben sauce you remember.
Once everything is ready, drizzle the zesty dressing over the layered slaw and beef blend in the skillet and garnish with chopped scallions. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures—a keto twist on a timeless classic!
Serving Suggestions & Occasions
The Keto Reuben in a Bowl is perfect for any occasion! Whether you need a quick lunch, a fun dinner with friends, or even a comforting weeknight family meal, this dish fits the bill perfectly. It pairs wonderfully with a side of pickles or olives, adding a crunchy brininess that complements the rich flavors of the bowl. For a complete meal, serve it with a refreshing side salad or some roasted vegetables.
Common Mistakes For Keto Reuben in a Bowl
While this dish is relatively straightforward, some common pitfalls can alter your culinary experience:
- Overcooking the Beef: Make sure to monitor the cooking time. Overcooked corned beef can become tough and lose its succulent charm.
- Neglecting the Cheese: Don’t skimp on the cheese, as it’s essential for creating that creamy texture that defines this dish.
- Incorrect Dressing Balance: Adjust the dressing to your taste. Too much horseradish can overpower the dish, while not enough can leave it lacking.
Healthier Alternatives & Variations
Feel free to get creative with the Keto Reuben in a Bowl! Substitute the coleslaw mix with shredded kale or spinach for added nutrients. You can also swap the corned beef for grilled chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option. For a spicier kick, experiment with different hot sauces or add diced jalapeños to the cooking mix. If you wish to make it dairy-free, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a plant-based cheese alternative.
FAQs
-
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the corned beef and coleslaw mixture ahead of time. Just reheat and add the cheese when you’re ready to serve. -
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
Havarti or provolone cheese can be excellent alternatives that melt well. -
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. -
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Most kids love the cheesy, savory flavors of this dish. -
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace corned beef with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture. -
What is the serving size for this recipe?
This recipe typically serves 4, but you can adjust the quantities depending on your needs.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve discovered how to create a tantalizing Keto Reuben in a Bowl, it’s time to put on that apron and start cooking! The comforting aroma, rich flavors, and creamy textures make this dish one you won’t forget. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of goodness that keeps you aligned with your keto goals while satisfying your cravings. Trust us—you won’t want to wait another day to try this culinary delight!
Print
Keto Reuben in a Bowl
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Keto
Description
A comforting Keto Reuben in a Bowl that combines tender corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty dressing over crunchy coleslaw.
Ingredients
- 1 bag coleslaw mix
- 1 pound corned beef, cut into strips
- 2–3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup Swiss cheese
- Scallions, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup
- 4 tsp horseradish
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Pinch of pepper
Instructions
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add corned beef and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the coleslaw mix to the skillet, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir the mixture and top generously with Swiss cheese. Cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the corned beef and coleslaw mixture, and garnish with chopped scallions.
Notes
Use high-quality, nitrate-free corned beef for the best flavor. Adjust the dressing to taste, adding more horseradish for heat or more mayonnaise for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg

