The classic American Reuben sandwich features heaps of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing nestled between grilled, buttery slices of rye. Are you drooling yet? But wait… I have a lighter Turkey Reuben recipe to share that’s just as satisfying and helps cut back on saturated fat and calories without skimping on taste. I truly think you’re going to love this version!

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I love Reuben sandwiches and leave it to you Joy to come up with a healthy turkey Reuben!!

Debbie
(5 stars) 4 ratings
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Don’t worry, I’m not going to Reuben a good thing—promise!—most of the traditional fixins stay exactly the same, so you can enjoy all the bold, briny, melty goodness you know and love. I simply toast the whole grain rye bread (hold the butter), and swap out marbled corned beef for lean, sliced turkey breast. It’s a simple skip-and-swap situation that turns this into a better-for-you deli sandwich that still hits all the right notes.

Want more lightened-up comfort food? Try my:

And if you’re looking to cut carbs or lighten things up even more, just leave off the top slice of bread for an open-faced version. Whether you’re craving a memorable hearty lunch or a quick dinner, this healthy Reuben sandwich delivers every time!

Why this Reuben deserves a spot on your plate

  • Big deli flavor, but healthier: All the savory, creamy, tangy goodness of a classic Reuben—just made lighter with turkey and toasted rye.
  • Protein-packed and filling: Lean turkey breast keeps this sandwich hearty and energizing.
  • Layered melty perfection: That contrast of toasted bread, meaty turkey, gooey cheese, crunchy kraut, and creamy dressing is chef’s kiss.
  • Endlessly customizable: Add pickles, go open-faced, swap in Dijon or make it dairy-free—this sandwich is your canvas.

I stopped eating red meat back in high school, so I started ordering this turkey-style Reuben at our local diner (shout-out to the Blauvelt diner)—at first they looked at me like I had two heads. Eventually, I figured out the simplest way to recreate it at home, and it’s been a go-to ever since. Whenever I spot sauerkraut in the fridge, I’m all in.

I’m telling you… go toast that rye and build this beauty. Even my husband Ian, a die-hard deli guy, gives it two thumbs up!

Looking for more scrumptious sandwiches? Try this Grilled PB & Fruit or Roasted Veggie Hero with Pesto!

(5 stars) 4 ratings

Healthier Reuben with Turkey and Sauerkraut

This is a lighter Reuben recipe that’s just as satisfying and helps cut back on saturated fat and calories without skimping on taste.
Yield: 1 serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 2 slices whole grain rye bread, toasted
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons Thousand Island Dressing, or Russian
  • 2 large slices turkey, 2 to 3 ounces
  • 1 thinly sliced Swiss cheese
  • ¼ cup sauerkraut, drained

Instructions
 

  • Spread Russian dressing on each slice of bread. Top with sliced turkey, drained sauerkraut, and cheese.
  • Melt cheese in oven, microwave or toaster oven, top with second slice of bread (you can add more Russian dressing if you’d like).
Author: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, CDN

Nutrition Information per serving

Calories: 310Carbohydrates: 30gProtein: 29gTotal Fat: 8g— Unsaturated Fat: 6g— Saturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 990mgPotassium: 152mgFiber: 2gTotal Sugar: 4g— Natural Sugar: 3g— Added Sugar: 1gCalcium: 206mgIron: 2mg
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.
I’m hoping you loved this recipe! If you made it and want to share feedback, I’d be so grateful to hear from you. Please leave a review below or tag @joybauer on Instagram!