There is something irresistibly satisfying about a good, hearty sandwich that makes lunchtime instantly better, and this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe does exactly that. Combining tender turkey, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and melted Swiss cheese all hugged by crispy, buttery rye bread, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a delightful twist. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this sandwich promises layers of flavor and textures that will make every bite a joyful experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe comes together with simple, classic ingredients that each play an important role—from the rye bread that provides a sturdy base with a bold, slightly nutty flavor to the Swiss cheese that melts beautifully for that creamy finish. Every component brings a little something special to create this memorable sandwich.
- 8 slices rye bread: The perfect foundation with its robust flavor and chewy texture.
- 8 oz sliced cooked turkey breast: Lean, tender, and savory, making it a great alternative to corned beef.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Adds a nutty, gooey layer that melts to perfection.
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained: Brings a delightful tang and crunch to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing: Creamy, tangy, and just a little sweet, this is the secret sauce that ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened: For that golden, crispy crust on the outside of the sandwich.
How to Make Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Spread the dressing
Begin by spreading the Thousand Island dressing generously on one side of each slice of rye bread. This not only adds rich flavor but also helps keep the sandwich moist and delicious inside.
Step 2: Layer the fillings
On four slices of bread, layer the sliced turkey, followed by a hearty spoonful of drained sauerkraut, and then the Swiss cheese. This combination gives you a balance of savory, tangy, and creamy tastes in every mouthful.
Step 3: Assemble the sandwiches
Top each stacked slice with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the dressing side faces the fillings, creating a perfect pocket of flavor.
Step 4: Butter the outside
Spread softened butter evenly over the outside of each sandwich. This will help the bread toast up nicely and achieve that irresistible golden-brown crunch.
Step 5: Heat your pan
Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat and allow it to warm up. Using medium heat ensures the cheese melts without the bread burning.
Step 6: Grill the sandwiches
Place sandwiches on the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crisp. Patience here pays off for that perfect crust.
Step 7: Flip and grill the other side
Carefully flip the sandwiches and grill the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted beautifully inside.
Step 8: Serve hot
Remove from heat, slice each sandwich in half, and serve immediately to enjoy the melty, tangy, and savory goodness at its best.
How to Serve Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few pickle slices on the side add a pop of color and a fresh bite that complements the sandwich’s flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like kettle-cooked potato chips or a crisp dill pickle spear make for a traditional pairing, while a simple coleslaw adds crunchy freshness that balances the richness of the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try cutting the sandwiches into smaller sliders for a party spread or layering the filling inside a lightly toasted pretzel bun for an extra dimension of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the bread from drying out and preserves the flavors well.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze assembled but ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them tightly and placing them in an airtight container. Use within 1 month for optimal taste and thaw in the fridge before grilling.
Reheating
Reheat sandwiches in a skillet over low heat or in an oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid the microwave to keep the bread chewy and not soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this sandwich?
Absolutely! While this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe shines with turkey, you can swap in sliced corned beef or pastrami to give it a more traditional Reuben twist.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Yes, feel free to use grilled portobello mushrooms or a vegetarian deli slice in place of turkey, pairing them with the sauerkraut, cheese, and dressing for a delicious meat-free option.
What if I don’t have Thousand Island dressing?
You can substitute Russian dressing, or mix mayonnaise with a bit of ketchup, pickle relish, and paprika to mimic that creamy, tangy flavor essential to the sandwich.
How do I know when the sandwich is cooked perfectly?
Look for a golden-brown crust on the bread and melted cheese oozing slightly at the edges; the sandwich should feel warm throughout, and the fillings well combined.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Of course! Just swap out the rye bread with a gluten-free bread of your choice, ensuring it toasts well in the skillet for that satisfying crunch.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug in sandwich form. It’s simple, hugely satisfying, and perfect any time you want something comforting with a bit of a zing. Trust me, once you make it, this will become one of your go-to meals for easy, delicious eating. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and dig in—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich is a delightful twist on the classic Reuben, featuring savory sliced cooked turkey breast, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and zesty Thousand Island dressing, all grilled to golden perfection between slices of rye bread. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, this sandwich combines rich flavors and a satisfying crunch with easy stovetop grilling in just under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 8 slices rye bread
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Sandwich Fillings
- 8 oz sliced cooked turkey breast
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the bread. Spread Thousand Island dressing evenly on one side of each slice of rye bread to add creamy tanginess that complements the savory fillings.
- Layer the fillings. On four slices of the dressed bread, arrange the sliced turkey breast, followed by a generous layer of drained sauerkraut, and top each with a slice of Swiss cheese for that melty texture.
- Assemble the sandwiches. Place the remaining bread slices on top of the layered ingredients, with the Thousand Island dressing side facing down, completing the sandwich formation.
- Butter the outside. Spread the softened butter evenly on the outer sides of each sandwich. This ensures a golden crispy crust when grilled.
- Heat the skillet. Warm a skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for grilling the sandwiches evenly without burning.
- Grill the sandwiches. Place the sandwiches onto the hot skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom side turns golden brown.
- Flip and grill the other side. Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until the second side is golden and the Swiss cheese inside has fully melted.
- Serve. Remove the grilled sandwiches from the heat, slice each sandwich in half for easier eating, and serve immediately while hot and melted.
Notes
- Make sure the sauerkraut is well-drained to prevent soggy sandwiches.
- You can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
- Use softened butter for easy spreading and optimal browning.
- For a crispier sandwich, press down gently on the sandwiches while grilling.
- Serve with extra Thousand Island dressing or pickles on the side.
