If you love the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich but are looking for a low-carb, gluten-free twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe. It transforms all the beloved elements—corned beef, tangy dressing, melted Swiss cheese, and crisp cabbage—into a satisfying, easy-to-make dish without the bread. This hearty and flavorful bowl delivers every bit of that Reuben experience with less fuss and more nutrition, perfect for anyone following a keto lifestyle or simply craving something comforting and unique.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe truly shine is the simplicity and balance of its ingredients. Each component plays a specific role—whether it’s the creamy dressing that ties everything together, the tender corned beef providing savory heartiness, or the crisp coleslaw adding fresh crunch and color.
- Coleslaw mix: A perfect low-carb substitute for bread that adds crunch and freshness.
- Corned beef: The star protein, sliced into strips to cook evenly and soak up all the flavors.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the beef to perfection.
- Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, savory layer everyone loves in a Reuben.
- Scallions: Provides a pop of color and a mild oniony brightness as a garnish.
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dressing, giving luxurious texture.
- Sugar-free ketchup: Adds tanginess without the carbs.
- Horseradish: Delivers the signature Reuben kick and depth.
- Hot sauce: Offers a subtle heat to liven up the dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami flavor, rounding out the sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances and balances every element of the bowl.
How to Make Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Corned Beef
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add your strips of corned beef. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef gets a bit of a sear and heats through. This step infuses the dish with richness and allows the beef to release its delicious aroma, setting the flavor foundation for the whole bowl.
Step 2: Add and Wilt the Coleslaw
Now, toss in the coleslaw mix right on top of the sizzling corned beef. Cover the skillet to let it steam for about 5 minutes or until the cabbage softens slightly but still retains a bit of crispness. This gentle wilting balances texture perfectly, keeping the dish fresh and vibrant while blending flavors harmoniously.
Step 3: Melt the Swiss Cheese
Give the mixture a good stir to combine everything evenly, then sprinkle the Swiss cheese on top. Cover again, or pop the skillet briefly under the broiler, just until the cheese is bubbly and melted into gooey goodness. This step creates the indulgent, cheesy layer that makes this keto bowl seriously crave-worthy.
Step 4: Prepare and Drizzle the Dressing
While the cheese melts, whip up the dressing by combining mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended. Drizzle this creamy, tangy sauce generously over the assembled bowl and finish with a scattering of sliced scallions for freshness and color contrast.
How to Serve Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with fresh scallions adds a delightful crunch and a slight sharpness that cuts through the rich layers of the dish. For extra flair, add a few dill pickle slices or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to brighten each bite.
Side Dishes
This bowl pairs wonderfully with simple, keto-friendly sides like avocado slices, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette. These options complement and elevate the flavors without adding unnecessary carbs.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or simply enjoy a beautiful meal, serve the Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe in individual colorful bowls or Mason jars for an inviting presentation. Adding a small ramekin with extra dressing on the side encourages dipping and provides an interactive dining experience that’s fun and casual.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners later on.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the coleslaw might change slightly after thawing. If you plan to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month for best taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to revive the flavors and refresh the texture. Adding a splash of water or broth can help prevent drying out. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway through until warmed evenly and the cheese is slightly re-melted.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese provides the classic Reuben flavor, you can substitute with provolone, gouda, or even mozzarella depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or a hearty mushroom mix instead of corned beef. Adjust seasoning to keep that bold Reuben flavor profile.
What if I don’t have sugar-free ketchup?
You can substitute regular ketchup, but that will add carbs. Alternatively, try tomato paste mixed with a little vinegar and sweetener for a lower-carb ketchup replacement.
Is horseradish essential in this recipe?
Horseradish adds the signature tang and bite traditional to Reuben sandwiches, but if you’re not a fan, you can reduce the amount or omit it, though the flavor will be milder.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe is a total game changer. It brings together all the nostalgic tastes of a beloved classic in a lighter, more versatile form. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply want a cozy, flavorful meal, this dish is sure to become one of your top go-to recipes. Give it a try and watch it quickly turn into a family favorite!
Print
Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A delicious and low-carb Keto Reuben in a Bowl recipe that combines savory corned beef, crisp coleslaw mix, melted Swiss cheese, and a flavorful homemade dressing. This quick and easy stovetop meal is perfect for anyone craving the classic Reuben sandwich flavors without the carbs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bag coleslaw mix
- 1 pound corned beef, cut into strips
- 2–3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- Scallions, for garnish
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup
- 4 tsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Pinch of pepper
Instructions
- Sauté the Corned Beef: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the corned beef strips. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and slightly browned.
- Cook the Coleslaw Mix: Add the coleslaw mix to the skillet with the corned beef, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the cabbage is slightly wilted but still crisp.
- Melt the Cheese: Stir the beef and cabbage mixture gently, then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again or place under a broiler just long enough to melt and bubble the cheese.
- Prepare the Dressing and Garnish: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the cooked mixture and garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Notes
- Use sugar-free ketchup to keep the recipe keto-friendly.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of horseradish and hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can be served with low-carb bread or lettuce wraps if desired.
