1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and with a heart as warm as the preheat, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter.
2. Spread those rye bread cubes along the bottom of the dish just like you’re laying down the foundation of a family home.
3. Evenly sprinkle the chopped corned beef over the bread cubes, then follow that with a layer of sauerkraut and Swiss cheese that’s comforting just to look at.
4. In a mix of motherly love, whisk together the Thousand Island dressing, milk, and eggs in a bowl you fondly remember from meals past. Pour this over the casserole, gently coaxing it into every nook and cranny.
5. If you’re using caraway seeds, now’s the time to sprinkle them on top, like a dusting of autumn leaves. Season with salt and pepper to your family’s liking.
6. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, until the edges bubble and the cheese melts into a golden-brown blanket.
7. Let it stand for a few minutes after taking it out—like a hug, it’s best when it’s settled and warm.
