Faux Reuben Sandwich

A Lighter Take on a Classic

 Jump to the Recipe

0 Comments 0 Replies Sandwiches American Moderate
Faux Reuben Sandwich
A fantastical image to inspire you.

Craving the rich, savory flavors of a Reuben sandwich but looking for a healthier twist? This Faux Reuben Sandwich delivers all the classic taste without the guilt. By using ground turkey seasoned with corned beef spices, we've created a leaner, protein-packed alternative to traditional corned beef. Paired with tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and a drizzle of creamy Thousand Island dressing, this lighter take on a classic is sure to satisfy.

What You Will Need

Ingredients

For the Turkey Patties

In a large bowl combine:

  • 1 tsp course ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp mustard ground seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds, crushed
  • 2 bay leaves, finely crushed (or 1/2 tsp ground)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sea salt (you might omit if using salty sauerkraut)
  • 1/2 tsp allspice
  • 1/2 tsp mace
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/8 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tbs olive oil
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 lb ground turkey (93/7)

Thousand Island Dressing from Scratch

  • 1 tsp onion flakes
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp pepper
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbs ketchup
  • 2 tsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp wine vinegar, red or white

For the Sandwich

  • Russian rye bread
  • Sauerkraut
  • Swiss cheese

The Process

Prepare the Turkey Patties:

  • In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, spices, garlic powder, sugar, olive oil and bread crumbs. Mix well until evenly combined.
  • Form the mixture into 4 evenly sized patties.

Prepare the Thousand Island Dressing

  • Add the dry ingredients to the Mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, and wine vinegar. Mix until completely combined.

Cook the Patties:

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the patties for about four minutes on each side, or until cooked through.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

  • Butter the outside of each bread slice.
  • Spread dressing on the inside of each slice.
  • Layer the cooked meat, sauerkraut and cheese on bread.
  • Top with the other bread slice and grill until toasted.
  • Serve with dill pickles and potato chips.

Enjoy your healthier, lighter take on a classic Reuben sandwich!

Note About the Mayonnaise for the Thousand Island Dressing

If you don't like using traditional mayonnaise, you might want to try vegan mayonnaise. It's quite good and tastes very much like regular mayonnaise. 

You can find various brands of vegan mayonnaise at Whole Food Market.