As I lingered over my collection of favorite recipes, one dish always stood out for its comforting familiarity: the Reuben sandwich. Now, imagine transforming that classic into an easy, delicious meal that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle. Enter the KETO Reuben in a Bowl—a hearty low-carb delight that puts the iconic flavors of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and zesty dressing right in your bowl. This dish is not only a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it also checks all the boxes for satisfying comfort food without the carbs. Ready to dive into this quick and tasty alternative? Let’s explore how you can enjoy all the rich, savory notes of a traditional Reuben, minus the guilt!

Why will you crave this recipe?

Comforting and satisfying, the KETO Reuben in a Bowl brings together the iconic flavors you love in a simple, low-carb format. Quick preparation means you can whip up a delicious meal in no time, perfect for busy evenings. Versatility shines with options to substitute proteins or add your favorite low-carb veggies. Rich flavors from the melted Swiss cheese and zesty dressing guarantee this dish will become a favorite. If you’re looking for tasty, homemade alternatives to fast food, this recipe will have you saying goodbye to takeout! Consider pairing it with a side like a refreshing Breakfast Bowl Start for added variety on your plate.

KETO Reuben in a Bowl Ingredients

• Unlock the flavors of this delightful dish with the right ingredients!

For the Bowl

Coleslaw Mix – Base of the dish providing crunch and vegetable servings. Substitution: Freshly grated cabbage can be used for a homemade mix.
Corned Beef (1 lb) – Main protein source, offering rich flavor and heartiness. Preparation: Cut into strips for even cooking.
Butter (2-3 tbsp) – Used for sautéing, adding richness. Substitution: Olive oil or ghee can be used for a dairy-free version.
Swiss Cheese (1 cup) – Melting cheese that enhances flavor and provides creaminess. Note: Use dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Scallions – For garnish, adding freshness and color. Substitution: Chopped chives or green onions can be used.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise (1 cup) – Base for the dressing, providing creaminess. Note: Use a vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
Sugar-Free Ketchup (1/4 cup) – Adds sweetness and tang. Note: Regular ketchup can be used but will increase carbs.
Horseradish (4 tsp) – For a kick of flavor. Adjust according to taste preference.
Hot Sauce (1 tsp) – Adds heat to the dish. Optional: Omit for a milder flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp) – Deepens the flavor profile. Note: Ensure it’s sugar-free to keep the dish keto-friendly.
Salt (1/2 tsp) and Pepper (Pinch) – For seasoning and balance.

Embrace the deliciousness of the KETO Reuben in a Bowl and get ready for a quick, satisfying meal that you’ll crave again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for KETO REUBEN IN A BOWL

Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, melt 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it begins to foam. This should take about 1 minute. Ensure the butter is hot and sizzling before moving on to the next step, as this will help in quickly warming the corned beef later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Corned Beef
Add 1 pound of cut corned beef strips to the skillet and sauté them uncovered for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The meat should be heated through and start to brown slightly around the edges, releasing its savory aroma. This step is crucial for building the rich flavor base of your KETO Reuben in a Bowl.

Step 3: Add Coleslaw Mix
Layer 2 cups of coleslaw mix on top of the corned beef in the skillet. Cover the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes on medium heat, allowing the coleslaw to wilt slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when the cabbage softens but still retains some crunch, adding a delightful texture to your dish.

Step 4: Combine and Melt Cheese
Stir the coleslaw and corned beef mixture together in the skillet until well combined. Then, spread 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, creating that warm, gooey richness typical of a Reuben.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sugar-free ketchup, 4 teaspoons of horseradish, 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. This zesty dressing will be drizzled over your KETO Reuben in a Bowl, enhancing its flavors.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Carefully spoon the hearty mixture into bowls, ensuring a good distribution of the corned beef, coleslaw, and melted cheese. Drizzle the prepared dressing generously over the top. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped scallions as a garnish to add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor before serving.

How to Store and Freeze KETO Reuben in a Bowl

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat KETO Reuben in a Bowl in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally. Expect it to be just as delicious as when freshly made!
Enjoying Leftovers: To revitalize leftovers, you can add a bit more Swiss cheese before reheating for an extra melty layer, making each bite as satisfying as the first.

What to Serve with KETO Reuben in a Bowl

Its hearty and satisfying flavors are perfect for creating a delicious full meal that the whole family will love.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts: A delightful texture contrast, these roasted greens add a nutty flavor that complements the rich Reuben bowl.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, they make a great low-carb alternative to pasta, adding a fresh element to your meal.
Classic Pickles: Their tangy crunch balances the creaminess of the dish, mimicking the traditional Reuben sandwich experience.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocados provide healthy fats and a refreshing coolness, enhancing the flavors of the Reuben bowl beautifully.
Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option brings a creamy texture while remaining light, making it a perfect pairing for your KETO dish.
Dry Rosé Wine: A chilled glass brings out the savory notes while refreshing your palate, ideal for an evening meal.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Rich and decadent, this low-carb dessert ends your meal on a sweet note without the guilt.

Expert Tips for KETO Reuben in a Bowl

Avoid Overcooking: Keep the coleslaw slightly crunchy for the perfect texture. Overcooking can lead to a soggy dish that loses its appeal.
Choose the Right Cheese: For a melty, creamy result, opt for a high-quality Swiss cheese. If you’re going dairy-free, make sure to select a good plant-based cheese that melts well.
Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the ingredients in advance. This makes it easier to whip up your KETO Reuben in a Bowl on a busy night.
Spice Adjustment: Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce and horseradish in the dressing—start with less and add more to taste!
Alternative Proteins: If corned beef isn’t available, pastrami or even turkey works well, just keep in mind that cooking time may differ.
Garnishing: Fresh scallions not only add color but also freshness to each bite. Don’t skip this step for the best flavor experience!

KETO Reuben in a Bowl Variations

Feel free to get creative with your KETO Reuben in a Bowl—there are so many delicious twists you can add!

Pastrami: Swap out the corned beef for pastrami for a unique flavor kick and a bit more spice. It’s a delightful twist that elevates your bowl!
Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini for a vibrant crunch. This not only boosts nutrition but adds a fresh flair.
Dairy-Free: Replace Swiss cheese with a dairy alternative like cashew cheese, or simply leave it out for a lighter option. You won’t miss out on flavor!
Extra Zing: Mix in some sauerkraut for that traditional tangy taste. It complements the other flavors beautifully and adds an authentic Reuben touch.
Spicy Variants: Increase the hot sauce or add jalapeños for a fiery kick, perfect for those who love some heat in their meals.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley. They can elevate the flavors and add a refreshing layer to your dish.
Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter bowl, use cauliflower rice instead of coleslaw as a base. It’s a fantastic low-carb substitute that still gives you that bulk.
Asian Twist: Consider adding an Asian-inspired dressing combination of soy sauce and sesame oil for a surprising taste adventure. Pair it with a side of Tan Tan Ramen for a themed dinner!

Your KETO Reuben in a Bowl can evolve into various delicious renditions to keep your meals exciting! Consider serving it with a side of Breakfast Bowl Start to further enhance your meal experience!

Make Ahead Options

These KETO Reuben in a Bowl are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the corned beef and coleslaw mix up to 3 days in advance. Simply sauté the corned beef, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and keep the coleslaw mix separately to maintain its crunch. On the day of serving, reheat the corned beef and layer the coleslaw in a skillet until slightly wilted, then top with Swiss cheese and cover until melted. Drizzle with your pre-prepared dressing before serving for a delicious, quick meal that’s just as satisfying as when made fresh!

KETO Reuben in a Bowl Recipe FAQs

What type of coleslaw mix should I use?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought coleslaw mix for convenience, which usually contains shredded cabbage and carrots. Alternatively, for a homemade touch, I highly recommend using freshly grated cabbage. This way, you can customize the texture and crunch to your preference.

How should I store my leftovers?
Very simple! Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They can safely last for up to 3 days. Just wait until the dish cools down to room temperature before sealing it up, which helps maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze KETO Reuben in a Bowl?
Of course! This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Here’s how:

Allow the dish to cool completely.
Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it slowly in a skillet for the best texture.

What should I do if my coleslaw mix gets too mushy?
Oh no! If you find yourself overcooking the coleslaw, don’t worry too much. Next time, simply sauté for a shorter duration and keep the heat moderate. Ideally, the cabbage should be just wilted but still retain a little crunch for that beautiful texture contrast in your bowl. To rescue mushy leftovers, adding some fresh crunch, such as chopped bell peppers, can help revive the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for anyone with allergies?
Definitely! When considering dietary preferences or allergies, there are some easy swaps. You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make it vegan-friendly, and choose gluten-free condiments if you need a gluten-free version. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, particularly in sauces like Worcestershire sauce, as brands may vary in their formulations.

These KETO Reuben in a Bowl Recipe FAQs should help clear up any questions, making your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable!