Turkey Burger Reuben Patty Melts combine two classic sandwiches into one satisfying bite. Lean turkey patties are tucked between slices of whole-grain rye with a lighter Russian dressing, swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut for a flavorful, lighter take on the traditional Reuben.
These patty melts deliver the bold flavors you expect from a Reuben with several tweaks that make them a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.
How are these Patty Melts Lighter?
- Lean turkey replaces ground beef. Choose 93% lean turkey to keep the patties juicy while reducing fat.
- Sauerkraut is mixed into the burgers as well as layered on the sandwich, adding flavor, moisture and a bit of tang without extra fat.
- Healthier Russian dressing: a mix of mayonnaise and nonfat Greek yogurt replaces all-mayo dressing. A touch of ketchup and minced bread-and-butter pickles add sweetness, while sriracha provides a gentle kick—no added sugar needed.
- Whole-grain rye bread provides more fiber and nutrients than standard white bread.
- Olive oil is used for grilling instead of butter to reduce saturated fat.
Recipe Tips
This recipe yields four patty melts. If you prefer to prepare ahead, cook the turkey patties and refrigerate extras for up to four days. Ground chicken can be substituted for turkey if desired. These sandwiches offer the familiar Reuben flavors with fewer calories and less fat, making them a great weeknight option.
Great Sides for Serving with this Recipe:
- Bacon Cauliflower Salad
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Healthy Apple Coleslaw
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Carrot Fries
- Air Fryer Onion Rings
Turkey Burger Reuben Patty Melts
Lean turkey patties are served on whole-grain rye with a lighter Russian dressing, melty swiss and sauerkraut for a delicious mash-up of Reuben and patty melt.
Ingredients
Russian Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced bread-and-butter pickles
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Sandwich
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups sauerkraut, divided
- 8 thin swiss cheese slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 8 slices whole grain rye bread
Instructions
- Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl, cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
- In a medium bowl, mix ground turkey with 1/4 cup sauerkraut, salt and pepper until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into four oval patties, aiming for a size that matches your bread slices.
- Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Cook patties about 3 minutes per side, until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of dressing on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place a turkey patty on four slices of bread, top with sauerkraut and two slices of swiss cheese.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, pressing gently to flatten slightly.
- Heat a few teaspoons of olive oil in the same skillet over medium. Add sandwiches and brush the tops with oil.
- When bottoms are golden, carefully flip and cook until the cheese melts and the second side is golden. Serve warm.
Recipe Notes
Avoid 99% lean turkey; it tends to dry out the burgers. 93% lean strikes a good balance between flavor and moisture.
Recipe adapted from Dude Diet Dinnertime.
Nutritional info is an estimate and may vary with product brands, measurements and cooking methods.
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