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If you’re craving a sandwich that balances savory, tangy, and melty in every bite, this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Combining tender slices of turkey with classic rye bread, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and that unmistakable zing of Thousand Island dressing, all grilled to golden perfection, this sandwich elevates a beloved deli favorite into a hearty, wholesome meal you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe hits all the right notes with comfort and bold flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential to creating the perfect texture and taste for your Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe. Each component plays a key role: the rye bread provides that robust, slightly tangy foundation, while the turkey keeps things hearty and lean. Swiss cheese melts beautifully to bring richness, and the sauerkraut adds a lively tartness that cuts through the richness. Finally, the Thousand Island dressing ties everything together with a creamy, zesty finish.
- 8 slices rye bread: Choose sturdy slices that will hold up well when grilled without becoming soggy.
- 8 oz sliced cooked turkey breast: Opt for thinly sliced turkey for tender, flavorful layering.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: This cheese melts perfectly, adding a nutty and creamy dimension.
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained: Make sure to drain well to avoid soggy bread and to keep the tangy crunch.
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing: Adds that signature creamy tang that makes a Reuben unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened: For spreading on the outside of the bread to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
How to Make Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Spread the Dressing
Start by spreading Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of rye bread. This step is the secret to getting that iconic tangy creaminess inside every bite of your Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe. Don’t skimp on the dressing—it’s what transforms the sandwich from simple to spectacular.
Step 2: Layer the Turkey, Sauerkraut, and Cheese
Place sliced turkey on four of the bread slices, then add a generous layer of well-drained sauerkraut. Top it all off with a slice of Swiss cheese to ensure a melty, gooey finish. The layering balances savory, tart, and creamy flavors elegantly and holds everything together beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Carefully place the remaining bread slices on top of each layered slice, dressing side down. This forms the neat sandwich structure that’s ready for grilling, sealing in all those delicious fillings.
Step 4: Butter the Bread
Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich’s bread slices. This simple step is what creates that golden, crisp texture on your sandwiches and prevents them from sticking to the skillet. It’s what gives the Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe its unmistakable crunch and buttery aroma.
Step 5: Preheat the Skillet
Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. A medium setting ensures the bread toasts evenly without burning, while allowing the cheese inside to melt perfectly. Patience here is your friend!
Step 6: Grill the Sandwiches
Place the sandwiches on the heated skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes. Keep an eye out for that gorgeous golden brown crust forming. This stage builds the sandwich’s signature crunch and aromas that will make your kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 7: Flip and Grill the Other Side
Carefully flip your sandwiches and grill the second side for another 3–4 minutes until it’s also golden and the cheese is fully melted. The result? That classic melty, crispy perfection that makes the Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe so indulgently satisfying.
Step 8: Slice and Serve Hot
Remove your sandwiches from the heat, slice each in half to reveal the inviting layers inside, and serve immediately while warm. Each bite offers a fantastic combination of textures and tastes you won’t forget anytime soon.
How to Serve Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe

Garnishes
To add a little extra flair, garnish your sandwiches with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few dill pickle slices on the side. The fresh herbs brighten the flavors, while the pickles echo the tanginess of the sauerkraut for a well-rounded experience.
Side Dishes
Classic accompaniments include crispy kettle chips, a dill pickle spear, or even a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For something heartier, a bowl of tomato soup pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of the sandwich, creating that ultimate comfort meal pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe into bite-sized sliders for a fun party appetizer, or stack it with extra layers of sauerkraut and turkey for an over-the-top feast. Serving it open-faced with a sprinkle of grated Swiss and a quick broil adds an elegant twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain moisture without making the bread too soggy, so you can enjoy your Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe the next day almost as good as fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to one month. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling as usual for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sandwich on a skillet over medium heat and cook each side for a couple of minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery. This method ensures the Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe stays delicious and fresh tasting.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of bread instead of rye?
Absolutely! While rye is traditional and offers a distinct flavor, pumpernickel or sourdough can be excellent alternatives. Just pick a bread sturdy enough to hold your fillings and withstand grilling without becoming too soft.
Is it possible to make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the turkey for slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or use a plant-based deli meat. Keep the Swiss cheese and sauerkraut for that classic tangy-savoury combo.
What can I substitute for Thousand Island dressing?
If you don’t have Thousand Island on hand, Russian dressing or a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickle relish makes a very close and tasty substitute. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick!
How do I make sure the cheese melts properly?
Cooking over medium heat and grilling each side for 3 to 4 minutes ensures the cheese melts evenly. Covering the skillet with a lid can also help trap heat, speeding up the melting process without burning the bread.
Can I prepare this sandwich gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap the rye bread for your favorite gluten-free bread. Many gluten-free breads grill just as well and will still give you that satisfying crunch in this Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that combines familiarity with a fresh, homemade twist. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, balancing bold flavors with a satisfying crunch and melty richness. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—you’ll quickly see why it’s become one of my all-time favorites!
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Print
Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously savory Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwiches featuring tender sliced turkey, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing all layered between crispy rye bread. These sandwiches offer a flavorful twist on the classic Reuben, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Bread & Spread
- 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 bread with dressing: Spread Thousand Island dressing evenly on one side of each slice of rye bread to add creamy flavor and moisture to your sandwiches.
- Assemble fillings: On four of the bread slices, layer the sliced cooked turkey breast, then add the drained sauerkraut, and top with Swiss cheese slices creating the main filling components.
- Form sandwiches: Place the remaining slices of bread over the fillings with the dressing side down to complete each sandwich.
- Add butter: Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich to ensure a crispy golden crust while grilling.
- Heat skillet: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat to the right temperature for grilling without burning.
- Grill first side: Place sandwiches on the hot skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bottom side of the bread turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and grill second side: Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes, until golden and the Swiss cheese has melted nicely.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from heat, slice each in half for easy eating, and serve immediately while warm and melty.
Notes
- Ensure sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid soggy sandwiches.
- Adjust cooking time based on stove heat to prevent burning the bread.
- Use softened butter for easy spreading and even browning.
- Feel free to add a little extra Thousand Island dressing inside if desired for more moisture and tang.
- Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped and reheated in a skillet or sandwich press.

