Name: Keto Reuben in a Bowl: A Low-Carb Comfort Food Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups coleslaw mix (Provides a crunchy base for texture. Substitute: Use shredded cabbage and carrots if coleslaw mix is unavailable.); 1 pound corned beef (Main protein source, delivering rich flavor. Substitute: Sliced turkey or chicken for a lighter option.); 2-3 tbsp butter (Used for sautéing the beef and coleslaw mix, adding richness.); 1 cup Swiss cheese (Melts beautifully over the dish to add creaminess and flavor. Substitute: Dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.); 1 cup mayonnaise (Base for the dressing, adding creaminess.); 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup (Provides sweetness without carbs.); 4 tsp horseradish (Adds a spicy kick to the dressing.); 1 tsp hot sauce (Enhances the flavor profile with heat.); 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (Adds umami depth.); 1/2 tsp salt (For seasoning.); 1 pinch pepper (For seasoning.); scallions (For garnishing, contributing freshness and a mild onion flavor.)

The aroma of sizzling corned beef paired with melting Swiss cheese fills the kitchen, and I can’t help but smile. That’s the magic of the Keto Reuben in a Bowl—a heartwarming twist on the classic sandwich that magically fits into my low-carb lifestyle. As I dive into this delicious dish, I’m immediately reminded of cozy family dinners, all while enjoying a plate rich in flavor yet surprisingly light. Not only is this recipe quick to whip up, making it a lifesaver on hectic weeknights, but it also transforms the traditional Reuben into a satisfying bowl of goodness that leaves you feeling great—no bread required! Ready to discover how to enjoy this comforting delight without the carbs? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Keto Reuben So Special?

Simplicity Meets Flavor: This Keto Reuben in a Bowl is a breeze to prepare, requiring minimal culinary skills while delivering maximum taste.
Crispy Comfort: The crunchy coleslaw adds a delightful texture to the rich, savory flavors of corned beef and melted Swiss cheese.
Versatile Options: You can easily modify the recipe by adding different proteins like shredded chicken, making it adaptable to your preferences.
Quick and Satisfying: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, ensuring you can enjoy a comforting meal without the wait.
Meal Prep Friendly: Made to store well, leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for quick lunches, much like my favorite Egg Roll Bowl.
Diet-friendly Delight: Not only is it low-carb, but it also fits seamlessly into gluten-free diets, letting everyone enjoy this hearty dish!

Keto Reuben in a Bowl Ingredients

Indulge in this low-carb delight with these simple ingredients!

For the Base

Coleslaw mix – Provides a crunchy base for texture. Substitute: Use shredded cabbage and carrots if coleslaw mix is unavailable.
Corned beef (1 pound) – Main protein source, delivering rich flavor. Substitute: Sliced turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Butter (2-3 tbsp) – Used for sautéing the beef and coleslaw mix, adding richness.

For the Cheese Topping

Swiss cheese (1 cup) – Melts beautifully over the dish to add creaminess and flavor. Substitute: Dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise (1 cup) – Base for the dressing, adding creaminess.
Sugar-free ketchup (1/4 cup) – Provides sweetness without carbs.
Horseradish (4 tsp) – Adds a spicy kick to the dressing.
Hot sauce (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor profile with heat.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp) – Adds umami depth.
Salt (1/2 tsp) and pepper (pinch) – For seasoning.

For Garnishing

Scallions – For garnishing, contributing freshness and a mild onion flavor.

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

Step 1: Melt Butter
In a large skillet, melt 2–3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it begins to foam. This creates a rich base for the dish. Once melted, ensure the butter coats the bottom of the skillet evenly for optimal cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Corned Beef
Add 1 pound of sliced corned beef to the skillet, spreading it out in an even layer. Cover the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing the beef to heat through. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to release savory aromas and becomes slightly crispy around the edges.

Step 3: Add Coleslaw
On top of the corned beef, place 4 cups of coleslaw mix. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the heat to soften the coleslaw and meld the flavors together. After this, you should see the coleslaw wilting just slightly but still retaining its crunch.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Remove the cover and use a spatula to stir the coleslaw into the corned beef thoroughly. This blending will create a delicious base for your Keto Reuben in a Bowl, as the cabbage absorbs the savory flavors of the beef and butter.

Step 5: Melt Cheese
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the mixture and cover the skillet once more. Allow it to cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2 to 3 minutes. If you prefer a more golden top, you can briefly broil it in the oven for a minute—just keep an eye on it!

Step 6: Add Dressing
While the cheese is melting, prepare your dressing in a separate bowl by mixing 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sugar-free ketchup, 4 teaspoons of horseradish, 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Once the cheese has melted, drizzle this creamy dressing over the entire dish and mix well.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish with sliced scallions to add a touch of freshness and color. Serve your delicious Keto Reuben in a Bowl warm, either on its own or paired with a crisp green salad for an extra crunch. Enjoy the hearty flavors and comforting textures right away!

How to Store and Freeze Keto Reuben in a Bowl

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing with cheese, as it can affect texture after thawing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave or stovetop until warm. This Keto Reuben in a Bowl still tastes delicious!

Serving Tip: For best results, add fresh scallions after reheating to brighten the flavors right before serving.

What to Serve with Keto Reuben in a Bowl?

Transform your comforting meal into a full experience with these delightful pairings, perfect for any occasion.

Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the richness of the Keto Reuben. The crispness of fresh vegetables balances out the savory flavors beautifully.
Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts: These tender sprouts drizzled with garlic butter offer a nutty flavor that complements the dish’s richness, making every bite an exciting contrast.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a satisfying crunch and fresh element to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience while staying true to low-carb values.
Creamy Cauliflower Mash: A luscious, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, this buttery cauliflower mash pairs wonderfully with the hearty beef and cheese, providing a delightful creaminess that rounds out the dish.
Pickles or Sauerkraut: The tartness from pickles or sauerkraut adds a zingy contrast, cutting through the richness and enhancing the classic Reuben flavors in this bowl.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink to cleanse the palate, sparkling water with a splash of lime is the ideal companion, keeping the meal light and enjoyable.
Dark Chocolate Squares: For a sweet finish, indulge in a small piece of dark chocolate. Its rich flavors create a delicious end to the meal without straying from your keto lifestyle.

These pairing options add variety, enhancing your dining experience while keeping everything delightfully straightforward. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love how the Keto Reuben in a Bowl can be prepared in advance for effortless meal planning! You can sauté the corned beef and coleslaw mix up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store the cooked mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The dressing can also be mixed and kept separately for up to 3 days to ensure it remains creamy. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the beef and coleslaw mixture in a skillet, top it with Swiss cheese, and melt over low heat or in the oven. This way, your delicious Keto Reuben in a Bowl stays just as delightful and satisfying as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Keto Reuben in a Bowl

Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ingredients to enhance the flavors. This can noticeably elevate your Keto Reuben in a Bowl.
Coleslaw Care: Avoid overcooking the coleslaw. Keep it slightly crunchy for a perfect texture contrast against the creamy cheese and beef.
Cheese Melting: For the best cheese melting, cover the skillet tightly. If you’re broiling, watch closely to prevent burning.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. A little extra horseradish or hot sauce can bring a delightful zing to the dish!
Make Ahead Meals: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy easy reheats during busy weeks without losing flavor or texture.
Protein Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins like pulled chicken or turkey. Each swap can give your Keto Reuben in a Bowl a delicious twist!

KETO REUBEN IN A BOWL Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe, making each bite even more delightful to your taste buds!

Vegetable Boost: Add low-carb vegetables like sliced bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful twist and extra nutrients.
Protein Swap: For a lighter option, substitute shredded chicken or turkey instead of corned beef. It adds a different texture while keeping it hearty.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese and mayonnaise to create a vegan-friendly feast. This way, everyone can enjoy a taste of comfort without compromising dietary preferences.
Spicy Kick: Toss in extra hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a fiery flavor that’s sure to excite your palate. A little heat can elevate this dish to a new level!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to bring a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the savory components. These simple additions can transform the flavor profile.
Creamy Alternatives: Swap out regular mayonnaise for avocado or Greek yogurt to give the dressing a creamy texture that’s packed with healthy fats. You’ll feel great about each spoonful!
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda or cheddar to create a unique flavor experience that strays from the classic Swiss. Each cheese offers its own delightful twist.

For more hearty inspirations, you might want to check out our delicious Mediterranean Steak Bowl or savor a comforting Chicken Alfredo Bowl.

Keto Reuben in a Bowl Recipe FAQs

What type of coleslaw is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! A store-bought coleslaw mix is perfect for this Keto Reuben in a Bowl as it provides a crunchy texture and a mix of flavors. However, if you can’t find it, you can easily make your own by shredding cabbage and carrots. This combination will still give you that delightful crunch!

How do I store leftovers for maximum freshness?
Very! To keep your Keto Reuben in a Bowl fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing it up to prevent condensation and maintain that delicious flavor.

Can I freeze any part of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can freeze the corned beef and coleslaw mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. However, I recommend waiting to add the cheese until after thawing, as freezing can affect its texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet.

What should I do if my coleslaw goes soggy?
No problem! If you find that your coleslaw has become a bit soggy, you can try to save it by gently sautéing until most of the moisture evaporates, being careful not to overcook it. Alternatively, add a bit of fresh coleslaw mix before serving to refresh the texture.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Definitely! If you or your loved ones have dairy allergies, substitute the Swiss cheese with a dairy-free cheese option, and opt for a vegan mayonnaise for the dressing. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, dairy-free version of the Keto Reuben in a Bowl without missing out on flavor!

How can I spice it up?
Very! Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce or even diced jalapeños to the dish. You can also squeeze in some fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. The more the merrier when it comes to personalizing your Keto Reuben in a Bowl!