Description of this recipe: This recipe elevates the classic Reuben sandwich by utilizing the flat top of a Blackstone grill. The result is a crispy, buttery exterior and a warm, melty interior, combining the savory flavors of turkey, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll love this Turkey Reuben because it’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a gourmet-tasting sandwich. The Blackstone grill provides even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly toasted bread and gooey, melted cheese every time. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover turkey! The grill adds a unique dimension to the classic Reuben, making it a delightful twist on a familiar favorite. The combination of tangy sauerkraut, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and savory turkey is simply irresistible, and the crisp, buttery grilled bread completes the experience.
Introduction
The Reuben sandwich is a timeless classic, typically featuring corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing grilled between slices of rye bread. This recipe takes the Reuben to the next level by substituting turkey for corned beef and cooking it on a Blackstone grill, a flat-top grill perfect for achieving a uniformly golden-brown, crispy exterior. The Blackstone’s even heat distribution ensures that the cheese melts perfectly and the sandwich is heated through without burning. This Turkey Reuben on the Blackstone Grill is an excellent way to transform simple ingredients into a satisfying, flavorful meal that is ready in minutes. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or even a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices rye bread
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 pound sliced deli turkey breast
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your Blackstone Grill to medium heat. This ensures that the sandwiches cook evenly and the bread doesn’t burn before the cheese melts. A medium heat setting allows for a balance between browning the bread and melting the cheese thoroughly. If your Blackstone grill has temperature settings, aim for around 350°F (175°C). Make sure the grill is clean and free of any debris to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Butter one side of each slice of rye bread with softened butter. Spreading the butter evenly across the surface ensures that the bread will toast uniformly and develop a rich, golden-brown color. Softened butter is key because it spreads easily without tearing the bread. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the sandwich, especially considering the saltiness of the turkey, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
Step 3: On the non-buttered side of 4 slices, layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese. Using two slices of Swiss cheese ensures a gooey, melty texture that complements the other ingredients. The cheese acts as a barrier between the bread and the other ingredients, preventing the bread from becoming soggy from the sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing. Next, add a quarter of the sliced turkey breast onto each of the 4 slices of bread, followed by a quarter of the drained sauerkraut and a generous spoonful of Thousand Island dressing. Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained to prevent the sandwich from becoming too soggy. Layering the ingredients in this order ensures a balanced distribution of flavors in each bite.
Step 4: Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward. This ensures that the buttered side will come into direct contact with the hot grill surface, creating that desirable crispy, golden-brown crust. The butter also adds richness and flavor to the bread as it toasts. Press the top slice of bread gently to help the ingredients adhere together.
Step 5: Place sandwiches on the preheated Blackstone Grill. Grill for 3–5 minutes on each side, pressing slightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches as they grill. This helps to flatten the sandwich, ensuring even contact with the grill surface. Monitor the sandwiches closely to prevent burning. The cooking time may vary depending on the heat of your grill. Once the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the sandwiches from the grill.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Turkey Reuben immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture. The hot, crispy bread and melty cheese are most enjoyable when served fresh. Serve with a side of your favorite deli-style pickles, such as dill or sweet pickles. A side of coleslaw or potato salad complements the richness of the sandwich. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
Tips:
- Use high-quality rye bread for the best flavor and texture. Look for rye bread that is dense and flavorful, with a good balance of rye and caraway seeds.
- Drain the sauerkraut well to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy. Press the sauerkraut between paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Adjust the amount of Thousand Island dressing to your liking. Some prefer a generous amount, while others prefer a lighter touch.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the Thousand Island dressing.
- If you don’t have a Blackstone grill, you can also cook the sandwiches in a skillet on the stovetop or in a panini press.
- If you are using a skillet, use medium heat and cook for the same amount of time, pressing down with a spatula.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the turkey with grilled portobello mushrooms.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Calories:
Approximately 600-700 per sandwich
Protein:
Approximately 30-40 grams per sandwich
Sodium:
Approximately 1200-1500 mg per sandwich
Conclusion
The Turkey Reuben on the Blackstone Grill is a simple yet delicious twist on a classic sandwich. By using the Blackstone grill, you can achieve a perfectly toasted, crispy exterior and melty, gooey interior that is sure to impress. This recipe is easy to customize to your liking, whether you prefer a generous amount of Thousand Island dressing or a spicier kick. It’s a great way to use leftover turkey and transform simple ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a weekend treat, this Turkey Reuben is sure to become a new favorite.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Swiss?
A: Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for a Reuben, you can substitute it with other cheeses that melt well, such as Gruyere, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the flavor of the cheese will alter the overall taste of the sandwich, so choose one that complements the other ingredients. Gruyere, for instance, offers a slightly nutty and complex flavor, while provolone is milder and creamier.
Q2: What’s the best way to drain the sauerkraut to prevent a soggy sandwich?
A: The best way to drain sauerkraut is to place it in a fine-mesh sieve or colander and press down on it with the back of a spoon or a clean kitchen towel. You can also wrap the sauerkraut in several layers of paper towels and squeeze out the excess moisture. Removing as much liquid as possible is crucial for preventing the sandwich from becoming soggy. Some people even rinse the sauerkraut before draining to reduce its acidity, but this is optional depending on your preference.
Q3: Can I prepare the sandwiches ahead of time and then grill them later?
A: While you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, it’s best to grill them immediately before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. If you need to prepare them in advance, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to grill, remove the plastic wrap and cook as directed. Keep in mind that the bread may absorb some moisture from the fillings while refrigerated, so they might not be as crispy as freshly made sandwiches.
Q4: What if I don’t have a Blackstone grill? Can I still make this recipe?
A: Yes, you can definitely still make this recipe without a Blackstone grill. You can use a large skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for about 3-5 minutes per side, pressing down with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan. Alternatively, you can use a panini press, which will give you similar results with crispy bread and melted cheese. If using a skillet, make sure the pan is preheated before adding the sandwiches to achieve a good sear on the bread.
Q5: Can I add any other ingredients to this Turkey Reuben?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the sandwich to your liking. Some popular additions include sliced pickles, caramelized onions, or a smear of Dijon mustard on the bread. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as marble rye or sourdough. For a spicier kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the Thousand Island dressing. Get creative and make it your own!
