Turkey Reuben Sandwich: The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect One

Turkey Reuben Sandwich: a delightful twist on a classic that will redefine your lunchtime expectations! Forget everything you thought you knew about Reubens because this version is lighter, brighter, and bursting with flavor. Have you ever craved the comforting warmth of a grilled sandwich but wanted something a little less…heavy? That’s where the Turkey Reuben comes in to save the day.

The Reuben sandwich, traditionally made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye bread, has a somewhat debated history. Some say it originated in Omaha, Nebraska, while others credit a New York City deli. Regardless of its exact origins, the Reuben quickly became a deli staple, beloved for its tangy, savory, and rich profile. Our Turkey Reuben Sandwich pays homage to this iconic sandwich while offering a healthier and equally delicious alternative.

People adore Reubens for their perfect balance of flavors and textures: the salty meat, the tangy sauerkraut, the creamy dressing, and the melty cheese, all nestled between slices of perfectly grilled rye bread. This turkey version captures all of that magic but with the added benefit of lean turkey breast. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. Get ready to experience a new level of sandwich satisfaction!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound sliced deli turkey breast
• 1/2 cup sauerkraut, well drained
• 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing, plus more for serving
• 4 slices rye bread
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• Optional: Dill pickle spears, for serving

Preparing the Turkey Reuben

1. Prepare the Sauerkraut: Begin by ensuring your sauerkraut is well-drained. Excess moisture will make your sandwich soggy. Place the sauerkraut in a fine-mesh sieve and press down with a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible. You can also wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze gently.
2. Mix the Dressing and Sauerkraut: In a small bowl, combine the drained sauerkraut with 1/4 cup of Thousand Island dressing. Mix well to ensure the sauerkraut is evenly coated. This mixture will add a tangy and creamy element to your Reuben. Taste and adjust the amount of dressing if needed, depending on your preference. Some people prefer a tangier Reuben, while others like it a bit sweeter.
3. Butter the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. This butter will help the bread toast evenly and prevent it from sticking to the pan or griddle. Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for easy spreading.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches: On the unbuttered side of two slices of rye bread, layer half of the Swiss cheese on each. This will help protect the bread from getting soggy when the warm ingredients are added. Next, divide the turkey evenly between the two slices of bread, placing it on top of the cheese. Then, spoon the sauerkraut mixture evenly over the turkey. Top the sauerkraut with the remaining Swiss cheese. Finally, place the remaining slices of rye bread, buttered side up, on top of the cheese to complete the sandwiches.

Cooking the Turkey Reuben

1. Preheat the Griddle or Pan: Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to toast the bread evenly and melt the cheese, but not so hot that it burns the bread before the cheese melts. A medium heat setting usually works best.
2. Grill the Sandwiches: Carefully place the assembled sandwiches on the preheated griddle or in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches as they cook. This will help them cook evenly and ensure the cheese melts properly.
3. Check for Doneness: To check if the sandwiches are done, lift one edge with a spatula and peek underneath. The bread should be golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be completely melted and slightly browned. If the bread is browning too quickly but the cheese isn’t fully melted, reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking.
4. Flip Carefully: When flipping the sandwiches, be careful not to let the filling spill out. Use a wide spatula to support the entire sandwich as you flip it. If any filling does spill out, simply scoop it back onto the sandwich with the spatula.
5. Continue Cooking: Continue cooking the sandwiches for another 3-4 minutes on the second side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Again, use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches as they cook.

Serving the Turkey Reuben

1. Remove from Heat: Once the sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese is melted, carefully remove them from the griddle or skillet and place them on a cutting board.
2. Cut and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut each sandwich in half diagonally. This makes them easier to handle and eat. The diagonal cut also looks more appealing.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Turkey Reuben sandwiches immediately while they are still hot and the cheese is melted. They are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle.
4. Optional Garnishes: Serve the sandwiches with dill pickle spears on the side. The tangy pickles complement the richness of the Reuben. You can also serve them with extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping. Some people also enjoy serving them with a side of coleslaw or potato salad.
5. Enjoy! Take a bite and savor the delicious combination of flavors and textures – the savory turkey, the tangy sauerkraut, the creamy dressing, the melted cheese, and the crispy rye bread.

Tips for the Perfect Turkey Reuben

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the taste of your Reuben. Use good quality deli turkey, fresh sauerkraut, and real Swiss cheese.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you are making multiple sandwiches, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches to ensure they cook evenly. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in soggy sandwiches.
• Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste: The amount of Thousand Island dressing you use is a matter of personal preference. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust as needed. If you prefer a sweeter Reuben, use more dressing. If you prefer a tangier Reuben, use less.
• Press the Sandwiches While Cooking: Pressing the sandwiches with a spatula while they are cooking helps them cook evenly and ensures the cheese melts properly. It also helps to create a crispy crust on the bread.
• Keep Warm in the Oven: If you are making a large batch of sandwiches and want to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest, you can place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C). This will keep them warm without drying them out.
• Experiment with Different Cheeses: While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as Gruyere or Emmental. These cheeses have a similar flavor profile to Swiss cheese and will melt well.
• Add a Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauerkraut mixture or spread a thin layer of horseradish on the bread before assembling the sandwiches.
• Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the turkey with grilled portobello mushrooms or tempeh. Marinate the mushrooms or tempeh in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for added flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rye bread. There are many good quality gluten-free rye breads available in most supermarkets.
• Toast the Bread in the Oven: If you don’t have a griddle or skillet, you can toast the bread in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Variations on the Classic Turkey Reuben

• Spicy Turkey Reuben: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauerkraut mixture or spread a thin layer of horseradish on the bread before assembling the sandwiches.
• Turkey Reuben with Coleslaw: Add a layer of coleslaw to the sandwich along with the sauerkraut. This will add a crunchy and refreshing element to the Reuben.
• Turkey Reuben with Avocado: Add a few slices of avocado to the sandwich after it is cooked. The creamy avocado will complement the other flavors and textures.
• Open-Faced Turkey Reuben: Serve the Reuben open-faced by only using one slice of bread per sandwich. This is a lighter option and allows you to see all the delicious ingredients.
• Mini Turkey Reubens: Make mini Reubens by using slider buns or small rye bread slices. These are perfect for appetizers or parties.
• Turkey Reuben Melts: Instead of grilling the sandwiches, melt them in the oven. This will result in a softer and more gooey Reuben.
• Turkey Reuben Quesadillas: Use tortillas instead of rye bread to make Turkey Reuben quesadillas. These are a fun and easy twist on the classic sandwich.

Storing Leftover Turkey Reuben Ingredients

• Turkey: Store leftover sliced deli turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Sauerkraut: Store leftover sauerkraut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Thousand Island Dressing: Store leftover Thousand Island dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Rye Bread: Store leftover rye bread in a breadbox or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
• Swiss Cheese: Store leftover Swiss cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a culinary experience! The Turkey Reuben Sandwich is a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. From the savory turkey and tangy sauerkraut to the creamy Russian dressing and perfectly grilled rye bread, every element works in harmony to create a truly unforgettable meal. I know, I know, I’m gushing, but trust me, this sandwich deserves all the praise! Why is this a must-try? Because it elevates the humble sandwich to gourmet status. It’s a delicious and satisfying way to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey, or simply a fantastic lunch or dinner option any time of year. The combination of warm, melted cheese, the slight sourness of the sauerkraut, and the rich, flavorful dressing is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up this masterpiece. But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your own preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Side Dish Sensations: Pair your Turkey Reuben with a side of crispy potato chips, a refreshing coleslaw, or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a complete and satisfying meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also works wonders to cut through the richness of the sandwich. * Cheese Please!: While Swiss cheese is the classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses. Gruyere, Emmental, or even a sharp cheddar can add a unique twist to the flavor profile. * Bread Bonanza: If rye bread isn’t your thing, try using sourdough or pumpernickel bread for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all those delicious fillings! * Dressing Dreams: While I’m partial to Russian dressing, Thousand Island dressing is a perfectly acceptable substitute. You can even make your own dressing from scratch for an extra touch of homemade goodness. A spicy mustard can also add a nice kick. * Veggie Venture: Add some thinly sliced pickles or a few leaves of fresh spinach for a bit of crunch and freshness. * Grilled to Perfection: Make sure you get a nice golden-brown crust on the bread for that perfect grilled sandwich experience. A little butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread helps achieve that crispy, golden-brown perfection. * Open-Faced Reuben: For a lighter option, try making an open-faced Reuben. Simply toast one slice of bread and top it with the turkey, sauerkraut, cheese, and dressing. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I truly believe that this Turkey Reuben Sandwich will become a new favorite in your household. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a casual gathering with friends. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your grill pan, and get ready to experience sandwich bliss! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And now, the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor combination? Any tips or tricks to share? I’m eager to hear your feedback and learn from your culinary adventures. Happy cooking, and happy eating! Let me know if you have any questions, and I can’t wait to see your creations!

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