Savory Turkey Reuben Burger: The Ultimate “Rachel Burger” for Your Grill
If you’re a devoted fan of the classic Reuben sandwich, prepare to have your culinary world rocked by the magnificent Turkey Reuben Burger! This innovative creation takes all the beloved elements of that iconic deli staple and transforms them into an absolutely epic burger experience. Imagine biting into thick, juicy ground turkey patties, topped with luscious gooey Swiss cheese, all nestled between perfectly crispy, buttered buns. Then, add a generous slather of creamy Thousand Island dressing and a hearty mound of tangy Frank’s Kraut – it’s a flavor explosion that is truly out of this world scrumptious!
Can you feel that warmth in the air? Summertime is officially upon us, bringing with it the promise of longer, sunnier days, and the delightful tradition of cooking and dining outdoors. There’s something undeniably special about the season of backyard cookouts, grill parties, and lazy afternoons spent by the water. It’s the perfect time to give your indoor stove a break, fire up the grill, and embrace the vibrant flavors of summer. And what better way to kick off the season than with a burger that marries tradition with a fresh, exciting twist?
This post is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut. My deep-rooted affection and honest opinions regarding their outstanding sauerkraut are entirely my own and have been for years.
The Irresistible Turkey Reuben Burger
If you haven’t already guessed, I have a deep-seated passion for all things ‘Reuben.’ My collaboration with Frank’s Kraut spans many years, and I am always looking for exciting new ways to incorporate their incredible sauerkraut into my recipes. This particular recipe for a Turkey Reuben Burger is a prime example of that dedication. As barbecue season is now in full swing, there’s no better time to add this sensational turkey burger, elevated by the distinct flavor of Frank’s Kraut, to your grilling repertoire. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying experience.
For those who love the original, be sure to explore my Traditional Reuben Sandwich as well as my Turkey Reuben Sandwiches recipe for more Reuben-inspired delights!
Crafting the Perfect Turkey Burger Patty
Making a flavorful and cohesive turkey burger is surprisingly straightforward. The main step is simply swapping out ground beef for lean ground turkey. Beyond that, you can largely follow your favorite hamburger preparation methods. The key is to blend in ingredients that enhance the turkey’s natural flavor and help the patties hold their shape. Once grilled to perfection, a slice of melty Swiss cheese, a smear of Thousand Island, and of course, a generous serving of tangy sauerkraut, complete this magnificent meal. You’ll be amazed at how easily these simple components come together to create such a rich and satisfying taste experience.
If you’ve never experimented with adding sauerkraut to your burger, you are truly missing out on an incredible taste sensation! The unique, slightly tart, and savory notes of sauerkraut add an unparalleled depth of flavor to all grilled foods. It’s not just a topping; it’s a game-changer that elevates the entire dish, making it, in one word, amazing.
And if you fall in love with this homemade turkey burger recipe, be sure to explore these other fantastic burger creations: the classic Reuben Burger, the hearty Kraut Burger, or the savory Pastrami Burger With Kraut (as pictured above). Each offers its own unique twist on the beloved burger, proving that a little kraut goes a long way!
Understanding Sauerkraut: Flavor and Benefits
Sauerkraut, quite simply, is fermented cabbage. This traditional preparation process gives it a distinctive slightly sour taste and a wonderfully crisp, crunchy texture that complements a wide array of foods, especially grilled meats. Beyond its delicious flavor and satisfying bite, sauerkraut is also celebrated for its numerous health benefits. In an era where gut health is a prominent focus, you’ll be pleased to know that incorporating a scoop of sauerkraut into your meals can significantly contribute to maintaining a healthy digestive system. It’s naturally rich in fiber, essential vitamins (like Vitamin C and K), and vital minerals. Crucially, sauerkraut is a fantastic source of probiotics – beneficial live bacteria that are known to support gut flora balance and may help improve the body’s absorption of nutrients, making it a delicious and smart addition to your diet.
“The Rachel Burger”: A Delicious Turkey Twist
If your heart belongs to the Turkey Reuben Sandwich, affectionately known as “The Rachel” – a delectable counterpart to the traditional corned beef “The Reuben” – then you are absolutely going to adore this Turkey Reuben Burger. Instead of the thinly sliced deli turkey found in the sandwich, this burger utilizes succulent ground turkey breast, expertly transformed into a lean, flavorful patty. But the true magic happens when you move beyond a typical burger dressing and instead pile on all the glorious, traditional Reuben sandwich toppings: crisp sauerkraut, tangy Thousand Island dressing, and creamy Swiss cheese. It’s a harmonious blend of familiar flavors in an exciting new format.
Essential Ingredients for Your Turkey Reuben Burger
For a comprehensive list of all ingredients and step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card.
To Make the Burger Patties:
- Ground Turkey: The lean and flavorful base of our burger. Opt for a good quality ground turkey for the best results.
- Egg: A lightly beaten egg acts as a crucial binder, ensuring your patties stay together beautifully on the grill or skillet.
- Seasoned Bread Crumbs: These not only help bind the patties but also introduce an extra layer of savory flavor. They contribute to a tender texture.
- Classic Spices: A carefully chosen combination of celery seed, caraway seeds (essential for that Reuben character), salt, and black pepper infuses the turkey with a wonderfully aromatic and distinct taste.
- Thousand Island Dressing: A touch of this creamy, tangy dressing is mixed directly into the burger mixture, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness. You can use your favorite store-bought variety or whip up your own homemade version.
- Green Onions (White Part): The white part of the green onions adds a mild, fresh onion flavor to the patties. Remember to reserve the green tops for garnish.
To Dress and Assemble the Burger:
- Hamburger Buns: Choose your favorite sturdy hamburger buns. A brioche bun or a classic sesame seed bun both work wonderfully.
- Butter: Unsalted or salted butter for toasting the buns, adding a rich, golden crispness.
- Swiss Cheese: Sliced Swiss cheese is non-negotiable for a true Reuben experience, melting beautifully over the hot patty.
- Frank’s Kraut: The star topping! I highly recommend Frank’s Original Kraut for its consistent quality and fantastic flavor, but any good quality sauerkraut will deliver.
- Extra Thousand Island Dressing: A generous drizzle over the kraut brings all the flavors together.
- Green Onions (Green Tops): Finely sliced green tops provide a fresh, vibrant garnish and a delicate oniony crunch.
Keep reading for invaluable tips and tricks, creative substitutions, and answers to common questions you might have about mastering this delightful Turkey Reuben Burger.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make This Turkey Burger Recipe
Preparing this mouthwatering Turkey Reuben burger is surprisingly quick and simple. In just a few easy steps, you can go from raw ingredients to savoring this incredible creation.
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, slightly beaten egg, seasoned bread crumbs, celery seed, caraway, salt, pepper, ¼ cup of Thousand Island dressing, and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough burgers.
Step 2: Form the Patties. Once thoroughly mixed, the burger mixture should resemble the texture shown in the image. Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a firm, uniform patty, about ¾-inch thick. Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty; this helps prevent the burgers from bulging in the middle during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers. You can either grill or pan-fry these delicious burgers. Cook them over medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, ensuring they are cooked through and safe to eat. Once the burgers are almost done, place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty. Continue cooking for another minute or two, allowing the cheese to melt into a wonderfully gooey layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns. While your burgers are cooking, lightly butter the inside surfaces of your hamburger buns. Place them face-down on the grill or in a hot pan and toast until they are beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds a crucial textural element to your burger.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burger. Place a perfectly cooked, cheese-topped turkey patty onto the bottom half of a toasted bun. Then, generously pile a mound of delicious Frank’s Kraut directly on top of the melted Swiss cheese. This layering ensures every bite is full of flavor and texture.
Step 6: Finish and Serve. Drizzle additional Thousand Island Dressing over the kraut, creating a creamy contrast to the tang. Sprinkle with the reserved green onion tops for a burst of fresh flavor and color. Finally, place the top bun on your masterpiece and get ready to dig in! These Turkey Reuben Burgers are best enjoyed immediately.
Storage and Freezing Tips: Leftovers of this fantastic turkey hamburger recipe will keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container. If you plan to make these ahead or have extra patties, you can freeze the cooked burgers (without any toppings) for up to 3 months. To do this, simply flash freeze the cooled patties on a cookie sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container.
Love it? Pin it!
If you’re as excited about this ground turkey burger recipe as I am, make sure you don’t lose it! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you leave so you can easily find it for your next cookout!
Creative Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to cooking, don’t be afraid to unleash your inner chef! Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe with ingredients that perfectly match your personal taste, dietary preferences, or whatever you have on hand. Make this Turkey Reuben Burger truly your own!
- Bread Swap for a Patty Melt: Instead of traditional hamburger buns, try using slices of hearty rye bread or pumpernickel bread. Grill the bread with the burger, and you’ll have yourself an incredible Turkey Reuben Patty Melt – a delicious variation!
- Dressing Alternatives: If you don’t have Thousand Island dressing, or simply prefer a different flavor profile, classic Russian dressing makes an excellent substitution. It offers a similar creamy, tangy profile with a hint of horseradish.
- Bread Crumb Alternatives: If you’ve run out of bread crumbs, don’t worry! Old-fashioned rolled oats can be used as a binding agent. Just make sure to finely crush them slightly if using larger oats.
- Serving Styles: For a lighter meal or to reduce carbs, serve these as open-faced burgers – simply use the bottom bun and enjoy with a knife and fork. Alternatively, ditch the bun entirely for a completely bun-less, low-carb option, perhaps served over a bed of greens.
- Year-Round Enjoyment: Don’t let the weather dictate your burger cravings! If grilling isn’t an option, pan-fry the burgers in a cast-iron skillet or on a griddle. This allows you to enjoy these delectable burgers any time of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Rachel Burger
- Are turkey burgers a healthier option compared to beef? Turkey burgers can indeed be a healthier alternative, especially if you are looking to reduce your consumption of red meat or aim for a lower-fat option. Ground turkey, particularly ground turkey breast, is typically leaner than most ground beef, offering fewer calories and less saturated fat. However, the overall healthiness also depends on the fat content of the specific ground turkey you choose and the toppings you add.
- What ingredients are essential for holding turkey burgers together? Unlike ground beef which has a higher fat content that helps bind it, ground turkey benefits from a little assistance. Both a slightly beaten egg and breadcrumbs (or a suitable substitute like oats) are key ingredients that act as binders, ensuring your turkey patties hold their shape beautifully during cooking and don’t fall apart.
- What can I use to prevent turkey burgers from crumbling? To keep your turkey burgers from falling apart, you can use the same tried-and-true binding ingredients that work well for ground beef burgers. Incorporating an egg, breadcrumbs, or rolled oats into your mixture will provide the necessary structure to keep the patties intact, resulting in a firm and satisfying burger.
- What is the best way to prepare a turkey burger patty? Preparing a turkey burger patty is very similar to preparing a traditional beef burger. Start by combining your lean ground turkey with a binding agent like an egg and/or breadcrumbs. Then, add your chosen spices and seasonings to infuse flavor. Gently mix, form into uniform patties, and they’re ready for cooking!
- Is sauerkraut a good topping for burgers? Absolutely, sauerkraut is a phenomenal topping for burgers! It adds a unique blend of flavors – tangy, savory, and slightly sour – along with a delightful crunchy texture. It cuts through the richness of the meat and other toppings, creating a balanced and incredibly satisfying bite.
- How long does it typically take to grill a burger? The grilling time for a burger can vary based on thickness, grill temperature, and desired doneness. For a medium doneness, you’re generally looking at about 3-4 minutes per side, totaling 6-8 minutes. If you prefer your burger medium-rare, shave off a minute or two per side. For a well-done burger, cook for approximately 5-6 minutes per side. Remember that very thin or thick burgers will require adjustments to these times, and all grills have different hot spots, so it’s always best to watch your burgers carefully and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Helpful Tips & Tricks for the Best Turkey Reuben Burger
- Add a Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, mix some red pepper flakes into your ground turkey mixture. It adds a subtle warmth that complements the tangy flavors beautifully.
- Prevent Sticking: Always remember to lightly spray your grill grates or your medium skillet with cooking spray before placing the burgers on. This simple step ensures your patties won’t stick and makes flipping a breeze.
- Utilize Leftovers: If you have leftover cooked turkey breast, don’t let it go to waste! You can finely chop or shred it and incorporate it into the burger mixture instead of using ground turkey. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers and adds another dimension of flavor and texture.
More Delicious Recipes to Love
If you’re a true connoisseur of burgers, then you’ll undoubtedly appreciate these other creative and flavorful burger recipes: try the patriotic Red, White & Bleu Burgers, the comforting Open Faced Pizza Burgers, or the unique and healthy Blackened Salmon Burgers With BLT Slaw. Each offers a distinct taste adventure!
And for those who, like me, appreciate the incredible versatility of Frank’s Kraut, explore even more grilling recipes that feature this fantastic ingredient: dive into BBQ Hot Dogs & Kraut, savor the Grilled Polish Sausage & Kraut, delight in Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin with Sauerkraut Stuffing, enjoy the simplicity of Smoked Hot Dogs & Kraut, or try the festive Grilled Bratwurst Meatball Kabobs. There’s truly a kraut recipe for every occasion!
See ALL Of my Sauerkraut Recipes here for even more inspiration!
Before we get to the detailed recipe card, I want to extend a HUGE thank you once again to Frank’s Kraut! This particular burger recipe marks the beginning of what has grown into an incredible eight-year partnership, dedicated to creating and sharing delicious recipes that showcase their truly excellent sauerkraut. Their commitment to quality and flavor has been an endless source of inspiration!
MORE SAUERKRAUT RECIPES TO LOVE
Stay connected with Frank’s Kraut on their social media channels to discover delicious new recipes and ideas throughout the year. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all things sauerkraut! You can also purchase their fantastic kraut directly from their website!
Loaded with incredible flavor, delightful texture, and remarkably easy to prepare, I guarantee that these Turkey Reuben Burgers will become a beloved staple in your kitchen and on your grill all summer long. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unique and delicious twist on a classic!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
Turkey Reuben Burger – a.k.a. “The Rachel Burger”
Equipment
-
Char-Broil 4-Burner Cart Style Liquid Propane Gas Grill
-
Weber Spirit S-315 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
-
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
For the Burger:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 egg slightly beaten
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed
- ¼ teaspoon caraway
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup Thousand Island Dressing
- 3 green onions sliced, and divided, use the white part for the burgers
To Dress the Burger:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 cup Frank’s Kraut
- Thousand Island Dressing
- Tops of the green onions
Instructions
-
In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, celery seed, caraway, salt, pepper, ¼ cup Thousand Island dressing, and the white part of the sliced green onions. Gently mix until just combined, then form into 4 equal patties.
-
Grill or pan-fry the burgers over medium-high heat until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (about 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness). In the last minute or two of cooking, add sliced Swiss cheese on top of each patty and cook until melted.
-
While the burgers are cooking, butter the insides of the hamburger buns. Grill or toast them until golden brown and slightly crispy.
-
Assemble the burgers: Place a cheese-topped turkey patty on the bottom bun. Mound a generous portion of Frank’s Kraut on top of the cheese, then drizzle with additional Thousand Island dressing and sprinkle with the reserved green onion tops. Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
Leftovers of this turkey hamburger recipe will keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container. You can freeze the cooked burgers, without any toppings, for up to 3 months. To freeze, flash freeze the cooled patties on a cookie sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container or bag.