Keto Reuben in a Bowl

Sharing is caring!

There are few things more satisfying than the flavor-packed bite of a Reuben sandwich—the savory meat, tangy sauerkraut, gooey cheese, and creamy dressing all coming together in one glorious mouthful. But when you’re living a low-carb or keto lifestyle, that thick slice of rye bread can throw your goals off track. Thankfully, there’s a delicious alternative that lets you enjoy all the iconic flavors of a Reuben without the carbs: the Keto Reuben in a Bowl.

This deconstructed version of the classic deli sandwich keeps things simple, hearty, and flavorful. Imagine everything you love about a Reuben served warm in a comforting bowl—melted Swiss cheese over seasoned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and a drizzle of homemade, keto-friendly Thousand Island dressing. It hits every savory, salty, tangy note and leaves you totally satisfied.

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, the Keto Reuben Bowl has your back. It comes together quickly, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers big flavor. It also reheats well, making it ideal for meal prepping or make-ahead dinners.

Another huge bonus? It’s easy to customize. Swap in turkey or pastrami, add extra cheese, or spice up your dressing—there are endless ways to make this recipe your own while keeping it keto. It’s great for busy parents, professionals working from home, or anyone looking to clean up their diet without sacrificing taste.

This recipe skips the traditional rye bread, of course, but if you miss that hint of rye flavor, a sprinkle of caraway seeds in the meat mixture brings that same warm, nutty note. It’s a simple trick that makes all the difference.

When it comes to texture, this bowl has it all. You get the juicy, tender beef (or turkey), the soft but slightly crisp sauerkraut, the creamy dressing, and the melted cheese that pulls everything together. Each bite is a perfectly balanced combo of richness, acidity, and umami.

And let’s talk about nutrition. This recipe is naturally low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats, which means it will keep you full for hours. It also skips all the added sugars and preservatives you find in many store-bought dressings and deli sandwiches.

You don’t need to be keto to enjoy this dish, either. It’s just a solid, flavorful meal that comes together fast and tastes amazing. Even non-keto eaters will appreciate the richness and comfort in every forkful.

It’s also a one-pan wonder if you’re using a skillet or cast iron pan, meaning fewer dishes and faster cleanup. In fact, you can make the entire recipe in under 30 minutes with just a few pantry and fridge staples.

This Keto Reuben Bowl has become a staple in many low-carb households for good reason. It’s proof that eating well doesn’t mean giving up your favorite foods. In fact, it’s the perfect example of how you can reimagine comfort food in a way that suits your lifestyle.

So whether you’re craving something warm and comforting, need a quick lunch idea, or want to impress your keto-curious friends with something totally delicious, this Keto Reuben in a Bowl is a must-try.

Ready to turn a classic sandwich into a low-carb masterpiece? Let’s dive in.

Servings

Serves: 4

Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked corned beef or turkey pastrami, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained well
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for rye flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Keto Thousand Island Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
• 1 tbsp finely chopped pickles (or dill relish)
• 1/2 tsp white vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped corned beef or turkey pastrami and cook for 5-6 minutes, until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
3. Stir in caraway seeds if using, and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Push the meat to one side of the skillet and add the sauerkraut. Cook for 2-3 minutes until warm.
5. Lower the heat and sprinkle the Swiss cheese evenly over the meat and sauerkraut. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted.
6. While the cheese is melting, mix all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. To serve, scoop the meat, sauerkraut, and cheese into bowls and drizzle generously with the dressing.
8. Garnish with extra pickles or fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Tips

• Use freshly sliced deli corned beef or turkey for best flavor.
• Drain sauerkraut well to avoid excess liquid in the bowl.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Double the dressing recipe and keep some on hand for salads or burgers.
• Add a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of hot sauce if you like extra spice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make.
• All the flavor of a classic Reuben with none of the carbs.
• Naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.
• Customizable with your favorite meats or cheeses.
• Great for meal prep and reheats well.
• Rich, satisfying, and comforting.
• High in protein and healthy fats.

Summary

This Keto Reuben in a Bowl delivers everything you love about a classic Reuben sandwich—without the bread or the carbs. It’s quick, hearty, packed with flavor, and perfect for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet. Make it your own, enjoy it fresh, or store for later—this is one keto-friendly comfort food you’ll want to put on repeat.