If you’re craving a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully simple to make, you’ve got to try this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe. Imagine layers of tender turkey breast, melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing tucked between slices of perfectly toasted rye bread. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Reuben, swapping corned beef for turkey, making it just as satisfying but a bit lighter. This sandwich offers the perfect combination of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds, and maybe even thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each bringing essential flavor and texture to the table. From the earthy rye bread to the luscious melted Swiss cheese, every component plays its part in creating that iconic mouthwatering bite.
- Rye bread: The hearty and slightly tangy foundation that holds all the sandwich goodness together.
- Sliced cooked turkey breast: Tender and lean, providing a perfect protein base with subtle flavor.
- Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, offering a nutty and creamy contrast to the other ingredients.
- Sauerkraut: Adds a zesty and slightly crunchy element that brightens each bite.
- Thousand Island dressing: Creamy and tangy, it ties all the flavors together with a hint of sweetness.
- Butter: Helps achieve that golden, crispy crust that seals in all the flavors.
How to Make Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Spread the Dressing
Begin by taking each slice of rye bread and spreading a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing on one side. This step is crucial—it infuses the sandwich with moisture and that signature tangy sweetness that makes the Reuben so irresistible.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
On four of the bread slices (dressing side up), layer the sliced turkey breast, followed by a good handful of drained sauerkraut, and top these layers with Swiss cheese slices. This careful stacking ensures every bite delivers balanced flavor and texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place the remaining slices of bread on top, dressing side down, to complete each sandwich. This creates a flavorful seal, allowing all the layers to meld together as it grills.
Step 4: Butter the Bread
Spread softened butter evenly on the outside surfaces of each sandwich. This step is the secret to achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust—the hallmark of a perfectly grilled sandwich.
Step 5: Heat Your Pan
Warm up a skillet or griddle over medium heat. This moderate temperature is key to melting the cheese and toasting the bread without burning it.
Step 6: Grill the Sandwiches
Place the sandwiches in the hot skillet and cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes. Watch the bread turn a gorgeous golden brown and listen for the satisfying sizzle that means the cheese inside is melting nicely.
Step 7: Flip and Finish Cooking
Carefully flip the sandwiches and grill the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes. This ensures the cheese melts all the way through and the bread reaches that ideal crisp perfection.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Once done, remove the sandwiches from the pan, slice them in half if you like, and serve while warm. The oozing cheese and savory turkey make for an unbeatable lunch or dinner treat.
How to Serve Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe experience. Consider adding a crisp pickle spear or a handful of fresh coleslaw on the side to provide acidity and crunch that complement the rich sandwich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic sides that pair well include crispy kettle-cooked chips, seasoned fries, or a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These options balance the hearty sandwich and keep your meal refreshing and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your sandwiches cut into smaller sliders perfect for parties or sharing. You might also layer the fillings into an open-faced version topped with extra cheese, gently broiled until bubbly and golden. Presentation is a great way to impress friends and family with this beloved Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping them wrapped well helps maintain their flavor and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Freezing
For longer storage, fully assemble the sandwiches but skip the grilling. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich in a preheated skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until warm and the cheese has melted again. Avoid using the microwave to preserve the delightful crunch of the bread and the texture of the sandwich.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this sandwich?
Absolutely! While rye bread is classic for a Reuben, you can experiment with sourdough or multigrain bread to add your own twist, though the flavor profile will subtly change.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Yes, you can swap the turkey for grilled vegetables like portobello mushrooms or use plant-based deli slices to create a vegetarian Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe alternative.
Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Definitely. Just substitute the rye bread for your favorite gluten-free bread, and proceed with the recipe as usual.
What’s a good alternative to Thousand Island dressing?
If you want to try something different, Russian dressing, a mixture of mayo, ketchup, and spices, works beautifully and keeps that classic Reuben flavor.
Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before grilling. Just be sure to add the butter and grill just before serving to keep the crust crispy and fresh.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like biting into a hot, melty Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe that perfectly balances tangy, savory, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or impressing guests at a casual dinner, this sandwich always delights and satisfies. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!
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
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich is a delicious twist on the classic Reuben, featuring tender sliced cooked turkey breast, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all layered between rye bread and grilled to golden perfection. Perfect for a hearty lunch or quick dinner, this sandwich combines savory, tangy, and creamy flavors with a crispy buttery crust.
Ingredients
Bread and Spread
- 8 slices rye bread
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
Sandwich Fillings
- 8 oz sliced cooked turkey breast
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
For Grilling
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
- Prepare the bread with dressing: Spread Thousand Island dressing evenly on one side of each slice of rye bread to add tangy flavor and moisture.
- Assemble the sandwich fillings: On four slices of the bread, layer the sliced cooked turkey breast, drained sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese carefully to build the perfect filling.
- Top the sandwiches: Place the remaining bread slices on top of the fillings, dressing side down, to complete each sandwich.
- Butter the outside: Spread the softened butter on the outer sides of each sandwich to ensure a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
- Heat the skillet or griddle: Warm a skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for grilling the sandwiches evenly.
- Grill the sandwiches: Place the sandwiches onto the heated skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom side is golden brown.
- Flip and continue grilling: Carefully flip the sandwiches and grill the other side for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until it is golden brown and the Swiss cheese has melted.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the heat, slice each in half, and serve hot to enjoy the melty, flavorful goodness immediately.
Notes
- Make sure the sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Use softened butter for easier spreading and better browning.
- You can substitute turkey breast with corned beef for a traditional Reuben flavor.
- Add a pickle or coleslaw on the side for a classic deli experience.
- Grill on medium heat to ensure the cheese melts without burning the bread.
