If you’re on the hunt for a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly grilled to golden, melty goodness, look no further than this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe. This elevated take on a classic Reuben swaps in tender turkey breast, giving you all the savory, tangy, and cheesy joy with a lighter twist. Imagine layers of juicy turkey, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melted Swiss cheese grilled between slices of hearty rye bread—pure sandwich heaven in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe comes down to simple, well-chosen ingredients that each add their own unique texture and flavor. From the soft rye bread to the vibrant sauerkraut, every component plays a delicious role in making this sandwich an instant favorite.
- 8 slices rye bread: The sturdy, flavorful foundation that crisps up beautifully when grilled.
- 8 oz sliced cooked turkey breast: Lean and tender, it replaces traditional corned beef for a lighter, savory protein.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Perfect for melting into gooey, nutty richness that ties everything together.
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained: Adds a punch of tangy zest and slightly crunchy texture.
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing: Creamy, sweet, and tangy, this is the classic spread that makes the sandwich pop.
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened: Ensures a golden, crispy crust on the outside when grilled.
How to Make Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Spread the Dressing
Begin by spreading Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of rye bread. This secret layer infuses the sandwich with a creamy and tangy kick that will balance the richness of the melted cheese and turkey.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
On four slices of the dressed rye bread, start stacking your turkey, then add a generous layer of sauerkraut, and top it with Swiss cheese. These layers combine lean protein, tangy tang, and melty goodness in perfect harmony.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Carefully top the stacked slices with the remaining bread slices, making sure the dressed sides are facing inward, so the bread forms a built-in sauce layer. This creates that classic Reuben flavor profile inside every bite.
Step 4: Butter the Bread
Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich. This step is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy exterior that gives that satisfying crunch when you bite in.
Step 5: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want it hot enough to toast the bread slowly so the cheese melts thoroughly without burning the crust.
Step 6: Grill the Sandwiches
Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Then flip and grill the other side for another 3–4 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly throughout.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sandwiches from the heat, slice each in half, and serve while hot. The combination of crispy exterior, melty cheese, and flavorful filling will have you savoring every bite.
How to Serve Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a bit of freshly chopped parsley or a few pickle slices on the side to brighten the plate and add a fresh contrast to the rich sandwich flavors. A few cracked black peppercorns on top can also add a nice spice touch.
Side Dishes
Pair this grilled turkey Reuben with classic sides like kettle-cooked chips or a crisp dill pickle. If you want to keep things light, a simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the sandwich’s hearty flavor beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the sandwiches into smaller sliders for a party platter or serve open-faced with a dollop of extra Thousand Island sauce on top. Wrapping each sandwich in parchment paper can also add a rustic, deli-style charm perfect for a picnic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, making for quick and satisfying meals the next day.
Freezing
While the sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them tightly and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and grill as instructed for a near-fresh experience.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat and grill each side until the bread crisps up again and the cheese melts. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can leave the bread soggy and the cheese unevenly melted.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts beautifully, you can experiment with provolone or mozzarella for a milder flavor or even a sharp cheddar for extra tang.
Is turkey breast the only meat option for this recipe?
No, but turkey breast is the star of this particular Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe for a lighter twist. You can use corned beef or pastrami if you want a more traditional Reuben vibe.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! To keep the spirit of the sandwich, substitute the turkey with grilled mushrooms, tempeh, or a plant-based deli slice. The sauerkraut and cheese combination will still give that satisfying tang and texture.
What type of bread works best?
Rye bread is classic for a Reuben sandwich because of its robust flavor and sturdy texture that crisps nicely on the grill. Substitute with pumpernickel or sourdough if rye isn’t available.
How can I make the sandwich less messy to eat?
Grilling the sandwich properly until the bread crisps up and the cheese binds the ingredients together helps reduce messiness. Serving with napkins and slicing the sandwich diagonally can also make it easier to handle.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug from the inside out—comforting, flavorful, and just the right balance of crispy and melty. Whether you’re craving a fast weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this sandwich never fails to deliver. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to sandwich for any occasion!
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Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich featuring tender turkey breast, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all grilled to golden perfection on rye bread.
Ingredients
Bread and Condiments
- 8 slices rye bread
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Fillings
- 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 evenly to infuse flavor into every bite.
- Layer the Fillings – On four of the bread slices, layer the sliced cooked turkey breast, followed by the sauerkraut, then top with Swiss cheese to build your sandwich.
- Assemble the Sandwich – Place the remaining four slices of bread on top of the fillings, dressing side down, creating four complete sandwiches.
- Butter the Exterior – Spread the softened butter on the outside of each sandwich to ensure a crispy, golden crust when grilled.
- Preheat the Skillet – Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for grilling the sandwiches evenly.
- Grill the Sandwiches – Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottoms turn golden brown.
- Flip and Finish Grilling – Carefully flip each sandwich and grill the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden and the Swiss cheese is melted and gooey.
- Serve – Remove the sandwiches from heat, slice them in half diagonally, and serve hot for best taste.
Notes
- Make sure the sauerkraut is well drained to avoid soggy sandwiches.
- Use softened butter for easy spreading and even browning.
- Grilling time may vary depending on your stove and skillet, so watch closely to prevent burning.
- For a vegetarian version, replace turkey with grilled mushrooms or tempeh and ensure Thousand Island dressing is vegetarian-friendly.
- Serve with pickles or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
