Name: Keto Reuben in a Bowl: Savory, Low-Carb Comfort Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 bag Coleslaw Mix (fresh or pre-packaged); 8 ounces Corned Beef (thinly sliced or pre-packaged); 1 tablespoon Butter (or olive oil for dairy-free); 4 ounces Swiss Cheese (or dairy-free cheese that melts well); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist); 2 tablespoons Sugar-Free Ketchup (or tomato paste with low-carb sweetener); 1 teaspoon Horseradish (omit for milder heat); 1 teaspoon Hot Sauce (to taste); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (or vegan/soy sauce); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 tablespoons Scallions (or green onions/chives)

As I stood in my kitchen contemplating dinner, the thought of a classic Reuben sandwich tickled my taste buds. But with a keto lifestyle in mind, I turned to a delicious compromise: the Keto Reuben in a Bowl. This quick recipe offers all the savory goodness of corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty dressing without the carbs. Perfect for those busy weeknights, it not only satisfies cravings but also delivers a hearty meal that feels indulgent while keeping you on track. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Are you ready to bring that comforting deli flavor to your table with this low-carb twist?

Why Will You Love This Keto Bowl?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy evenings, coming together in just a few simple steps. Flavorful Comfort: Enjoy the rich taste of corned beef paired with melted Swiss cheese, offering all the nostalgia of a Reuben sandwich in a healthier form. Versatile Base: Use coleslaw mix as a base, but feel free to add your favorite low-carb veggies for extra nutrition. Family-Friendly: The delightful flavors appeal to everyone, making it a crowd-pleaser that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters. For more quick and delicious ideas, check out my Keto Hamburger Broccoli and Packed Pasta Bowl recipes!

KETO REUBEN IN A BOWL Ingredients

For the Base

Coleslaw Mix – A crunchy texture and volume, you can use fresh or pre-packaged for convenience.
Corned Beef – This key protein source adds savory flavor; opt for thinly sliced or pre-packaged for ease.

For the Cooking

Butter – Ideal for sautéing, enhancing flavor; olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
Swiss Cheese – Brings creaminess; feel free to swap with a dairy-free cheese that melts well.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – The base for dressing, providing creaminess; substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Sugar-Free Ketchup – Adds sweetness and acidity; if you’re in a pinch, tomato paste with a low-carb sweetener can substitute.
Horseradish – Provides a spicy kick; omit for milder heat, or try wasabi for an exciting twist.
Hot Sauce – Adjust according to your heat preference, or leave out for a milder version.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds nice umami depth; you can substitute with vegan or soy sauce if needed.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance taste; season to your preference.

For the Garnish

Scallions – A fresh garnish that adds a mild onion flavor; green onions or chives work well as substitutes.

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

Step 1: Melt Butter
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt until it becomes foamy, signaling that it’s ready for cooking. The bubbling butter creates a flavorful base for your Keto Reuben in a Bowl, enhancing the savory notes of the corned beef that will follow.

Step 2: Sauté Corned Beef
Add your tender strips of corned beef to the skillet, spreading them out to ensure even heating. Cover the skillet and let the beef sauté for about 5 minutes. During this time, the beef will become heated through and will develop a slightly crispy edge, adding to the overall texture and flavor of the dish.

Step 3: Add Coleslaw Mix
Next, layer the coleslaw mix over the corned beef in the skillet. Cover the skillet once again and allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes. As the cabbage and carrots soften, they’ll wilt just enough to blend with the savory flavors of the beef without losing their delightful crunch.

Step 4: Combine and Melt Cheese
After 5 minutes, stir the mixture to combine the flavors and ensure everything is evenly distributed. Then, top with slices of Swiss cheese. Cover the skillet again or switch to the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese until it’s bubbly and gooey, bringing richness to your Keto Reuben in a Bowl.

Step 5: Drizzle the Dressing
While the cheese melts, prepare your dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Once the cheese is melted, drizzle this zesty mixture over the dish, adding a creamy and tangy finish that ties all the flavors together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your Keto Reuben in a Bowl with finely sliced scallions for a pop of color and a fresh taste. Serve it hot right from the skillet and enjoy the harmonious blend of textures and flavors—a comforting meal that boasts all the beloved aspects of a classic Reuben in a health-conscious format.

Storage Tips for Keto Reuben in a Bowl

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and tasty for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or skillet until heated through, ensuring the cheese melts again for that delicious gooeyness.
Texture Preservation: To maintain the coleslaw’s crunch, consider adding fresh coleslaw mix after reheating the main components of the Keto Reuben in a Bowl.

KETO REUBEN IN A BOWL Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists and swaps that enhance the flavor and fit your dietary needs!

Turkey Swap: Replace corned beef with turkey for a lighter version that still packs a satisfying punch. It’s a great way to enjoy a familiar flavor while lightening the meal!
Veggie Medley: Add low-carb vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutrient boost and extra texture. The crunch of veggies adds a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese.
Dairy-Free Delight: Opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese entirely to accommodate a dairy-free lifestyle. You won’t miss the dairy at all, as the flavors remain bold and vibrant.
Greek Yogurt Boost: Instead of mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt for the dressing for a tangy flavor and extra protein. It will give the dressing a refreshing twist while keeping it creamy.
Spicy Kick: Spice things up with a touch of sriracha or extra horseradish for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This will add a thrilling depth of flavor, making each bite exciting!
Keto Bread Crumbles: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some keto-friendly bread crumbs on top before serving. It mimics the feeling of a sandwich while keeping the meal low-carb and satisfying.

For more variations, if you love simple, hearty meals, try pairing with my Street Corn Chicken Bowl or check out the High Protein Pancake Bowl for a sweet-ending treat!

Expert Tips for Keto Reuben in a Bowl

Skillet Temperature: Ensure the skillet is adequately heated before adding corned beef to achieve crispy edges and better flavor.
Keep It Crisp: Avoid overcooking the coleslaw mix; it should remain slightly crunchy to balance the melted cheese and beef.
Watch the Broil: If broiling to melt the cheese, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning; this adds a delightful texture but can go from perfect to charred quickly!
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t be afraid to tweak the dressing ingredients; add more horseradish or hot sauce for heat, or adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Leftover Storage: Store the Keto Reuben in a Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days—it’s great reheated and still delicious!

Make Ahead Options

These Keto Reuben in a Bowl are a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can prepare the corned beef, coleslaw mix, and cheese components up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the corned beef and layer it with the coleslaw mix in an airtight container, storing it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy, heat the mixture in a skillet until warmed through, then top with Swiss cheese and cover until melted. This method keeps everything just as delicious, allowing you to savor all the comforting flavors with minimal effort on hectic evenings!

What to Serve with Keto Reuben in a Bowl?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of this hearty dish.

Avocado Salad: A creamy avocado salad with lime dressing adds freshness and a buttery texture that balances the savory bowl.
Roasted Cauliflower: Crunchy, roasted cauliflower seasoned with herbs provides a satisfying contrast to the richness of the Reuben.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, spiralized zucchini with a drizzle of olive oil offers a refreshing pasta alternative that won’t weigh you down.
Baked Artichoke Dip: This warm, cheesy dip brings a tangy depth that harmonizes beautifully with the zesty dressing in the bowl.
Pickle Chips: Crunchy, tangy pickle chips add a delightful bite, enhancing the Reuben’s flavor profile with their briny essence.
Keto-Friendly Beer: A crisp, low-carb beer can bring a toastiness to your meal, enhancing the overall experience with its hoppy notes.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End on a sweet note with this creamy dessert; it satisfies the sweet tooth while staying within keto guidelines.
Cauliflower Rice: Flavorful, fluffy cauliflower rice is a great way to soak up the dressing while adding texture without the carbs.

KETO REUBEN IN A BOWL Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right corned beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for thinly sliced or pre-packaged corned beef for convenience, as it heats quickly and absorbs the flavors of your dish beautifully. When selecting, look for a cut that appears moist and has a rich, pink color without any gray areas, which can indicate dryness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Keto Reuben in a Bowl?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure you let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make your dish soggy. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze the Keto Reuben in a Bowl?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave a little space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or a skillet until hot. For the best texture when reheating, you can add fresh coleslaw mix to retain that delightful crunch!

What should I do if my dressing isn’t thick enough?
If your dressing is too thin, add a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mix in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and heat gently until thickened. Don’t worry—adjusting the dressing will enhance the overall flavor!

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, simply swap the Swiss cheese with a plant-based cheese that melts well and use a dairy-free mayonnaise. For those with food allergies, always check the labels on your sauces and condiments, ensuring they’re free from any allergens, such as eggs or gluten.