Low-Carb Reuben Skillet 🧀🥩
All the Reuben Flavor You Love – Without the Carbs!
If you’re a Reuben sandwich fan but keeping things low-carb, this Reuben Skillet is about to become your go-to comfort dish. Loaded with juicy corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey Swiss cheese, and topped with a creamy homemade Thousand Island dressing, it delivers all the iconic flavors—without the bread.
This recipe clocks in at just 1 net carb per serving, making it ideal for keto, low-carb, or grain-free lifestyles. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together effortlessly after a little slow cooker magic.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish is cozy, flavorful, and seriously satisfying. It starts with slow-cooked corned beef brisket—tender and rich with layers of spice—then gets quickly crisped up in a skillet with buttery sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese. The finishing touch? A quick, creamy homemade Thousand Island dressing that ties everything together.
It’s got the warm, meaty heart of your favorite Reuben sandwich, without the carbs or the mess.
If you love cheesy creations like cheesy hot sandwich dip or crave comfort foods like Dorito casserole, this skillet dish will feel right at home.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Corned Beef:
- 1 corned beef brisket (about 2.5–3 lbs)
- 1 tbsp brown mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Seasoning packet (from the corned beef)
For the Skillet:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 jar sauerkraut (drained and lightly pressed)
- Cooked corned beef, shredded
- ¼–½ cup cooking juices from crockpot
- 6–8 slices Swiss cheese
For Homemade Thousand Island Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp brown mustard
- 1 tbsp finely diced pickle
- 1 tsp pickle juice
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
📝 Instructions
1. Slow Cook the Corned Beef
Place the brisket in a slow cooker. Spread with brown mustard and drizzle with Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle the seasoning packet over top.
Cook on LOW for 8 hours until fork-tender.
2. Shred the Beef
Once cooked, remove the brisket and shred it using two forks. Reserve ¼–½ cup of the cooking liquid to add flavor later.
3. Sauté the Sauerkraut
In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the sauerkraut and cook for 3–4 minutes, letting it brown slightly for added depth.
4. Add the Corned Beef
Stir in the shredded beef and reserved cooking juices. Let the mixture heat through and meld, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Top with Swiss Cheese
Layer Swiss cheese slices over the skillet mixture. Cover with a lid for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melty and gooey.
6. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix mayo, mustard, diced pickle, pickle juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until creamy and blended.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Drizzle with homemade Thousand Island dressing just before serving. Scoop onto plates or eat straight from the skillet!
💡 Tips for Success
- Let the corned beef rest after cooking before shredding—it stays juicier.
- Brown the sauerkraut for added flavor and texture.
- Swiss cheese is traditional, but provolone or mozzarella work too.
- Want it spicy? Add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Meal prep win: Store leftovers in single-serve containers with dressing on the side.
🍽 Pairing Suggestions
While this skillet stands strong on its own, pair it with:
- Beer Cheese Dip – on the side with veggies for scooping
- Cheesy Chicken Sliders – for carb-lovers in the house
- Cheese-Stuffed Wontons – crunchy contrast to your skillet
- Dorito Casserole – the crunchy-meaty combo is 🔥
- Hot Dip Remix – keep that Reuben theme going!
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat: In a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts
- Dressing: Store separately in a sealed jar—good for up to 1 week
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Final Thoughts
This Low-Carb Reuben Skillet proves you don’t need bread to enjoy bold deli-style flavor. It’s hearty, cheesy, tangy, and crazy satisfying—especially when topped with that quick homemade dressing. Whether you’re keto or just cutting carbs, this dish is a one-skillet wonder you’ll keep in your rotation.
If you give it a try, tag @ChefManiac and show us your skillet masterpiece! Want more low-carb comfort food? Visit ChefManiac.com for a treasure trove of savory, snackable inspiration.
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