If you love the classic Reuben but are looking for a lighter, just-as-delicious twist, the Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender slices of turkey breast layered with tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese, all nestled between hearty rye bread slathered with creamy Thousand Island dressing, then grilled to golden perfection. This sandwich strikes the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and gooey, making it an irresistible comfort food that comes together quickly and easily for any lunch or dinner occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet crucial for creating the magic of the Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe. Each item brings a distinct flavor or texture that elevates the sandwich into something special.
- Rye bread: The bold, slightly sour flavor of rye provides the perfect foundation and structure for the layers inside.
- Sliced cooked turkey breast: A lean, tender protein that keeps this Reuben lighter but still satisfying.
- Swiss cheese: Its creamy, nutty taste melts smoothly, adding richness to every bite.
- Sauerkraut: Drained well to keep the sandwich from getting soggy, it adds the classic tang and a bit of crunch.
- Thousand Island dressing: This creamy, slightly sweet dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Butter: Softened for easy spreading, it crisps the bread perfectly when grilled.
How to Make Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the bread with dressing
Start by spreading a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of rye bread. This not only adds moisture and flavor but also serves as the delicious glue for your sandwich fillings.
Step 2: Layer the fillings
On four of the bread slices, carefully build your sandwich by layering the sliced turkey breast first, followed by a good helping of drained sauerkraut, and then top it with Swiss cheese. This order helps balance moisture and texture so every bite delivers that classic Reuben taste.
Step 3: Assemble the sandwiches
Place the remaining bread slices on top of the layered ones, dressing side down, creating four perfectly stacked sandwiches ready for grilling.
Step 4: Butter the outsides
Spread softened butter evenly on the outside of each sandwich. This step is key for achieving that golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the melty interior.
Step 5: Grill to perfection
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and place the sandwiches on it. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes, watching carefully for that lovely golden-brown color. Flip the sandwiches and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden and the Swiss cheese has melted fully, creating gooey goodness inside.
Step 6: Slice and serve
Remove the sandwiches from heat, let them rest for a minute, then slice them in half. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, melty, and crispy delight that is the Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe.
How to Serve Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes can elevate your sandwich presentation and flavor. Try adding a crisp pickle spear or a few fresh dill sprigs on the side. A light sprinkle of paprika over the sandwich can add a subtle smoky note and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
The Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides. Consider crunchy kettle-cooked chips, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, or even a warm bowl of tomato soup to complement the sandwich’s richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the sandwiches into smaller sliders for a party platter or serve alongside a mixed pickle assortment for added tang and texture contrast. You can also experiment by swapping rye bread for pumpernickel or marble rye for visual interest and slight flavor variations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, perfect for a next-day lunch that still satisfies.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for this sandwich because the sauerkraut and bread texture can suffer. However, if you must, wrap each sandwich very tightly in foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the sandwich and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula to bring back the crispy bread and melted cheese. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for its nutty flavor and meltability, you can experiment with provolone or mozzarella if you prefer a milder or stretchier cheese.
Is this sandwich gluten-free?
Not with rye bread, but you can substitute gluten-free bread of your choice to make a gluten-free version while keeping the same delicious layers and flavors.
Can I prepare the sandwiches ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwiches in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for a few hours before grilling. This makes it easy to prepare for gatherings or busy days.
What’s the best way to drain sauerkraut?
Place sauerkraut in a fine mesh strainer and press gently with the back of a spoon or paper towel to remove excess liquid, which helps prevent soggy bread.
Can I add mustard for extra tang?
Yes! You can spread a thin layer of spicy brown mustard under the Thousand Island dressing for an extra punch, giving the sandwich more complexity and zing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a sandwich that combines the comforting flavors of a classic Reuben with a lighter twist, this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe is your golden ticket. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and hearty Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich featuring layers of sliced turkey breast, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all between slices of rye bread slathered with Thousand Island dressing and grilled to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Bread & Spreads
- 8 slices rye bread
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Filling
- 8 oz sliced cooked turkey breast
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Spread Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of rye bread to provide a flavorful base for the sandwich layers.
- Layer the sandwich: On four slices of bread, layer the sliced turkey breast, drained sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese to build the distinctive Reuben filling.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Top each layered slice with the remaining slices of bread, dressing side down, to form complete sandwiches ready for grilling.
- Butter the exteriors: Spread softened butter evenly on the outside of each sandwich to ensure a crisp, golden crust when cooked.
- Heat the skillet: Warm a skillet or griddle over medium heat, preparing it for grilling the sandwiches.
- Grill the first side: Place the sandwiches onto the hot skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and grill the other side: Carefully turn the sandwiches over and continue grilling for another 3 to 4 minutes until the second side is golden and the Swiss cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the heat, slice them in half, and serve hot to enjoy the melty, savory flavors.
Notes
- Make sure the sauerkraut is well drained to prevent soggy sandwiches.
- You can substitute turkey with corned beef for a more traditional Reuben flavor.
- Use a panini press if available for more even grilling and pressing.
- Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your stove or skillet heat.
- For a vegetarian option, omit turkey and add grilled mushrooms or tempeh.
