Reuben Burgers: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

My first Reuben wasn’t at a fancy deli, but at a summer baseball game. The aroma of grilled meat mingling with tangy sauerkraut was irresistible. It was a messy, glorious affair, juices dripping down my hands with every bite. While it wasn’t the most traditional setting, that simple sandwich sparked a lifelong love for the Reuben, and eventually led me to creating this burger version. Now, I can enjoy all those classic flavors in a convenient, handheld form – perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight meal.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 5
• Dietary Type: Varies (see variations)

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 5 slices Swiss cheese (approximately 3 inches by 3 inches each)
• 1 (4 1/2 oz) can corned beef spread or deviled ham
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (about 1 small onion)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 (8 oz) can sauerkraut, drained
• Rye or pumpernickel buns or bread, for serving

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet or broiler pan
• Broiler or oven

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, corned beef spread (or deviled ham), finely chopped onion, salt, garlic salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix all ingredients together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough burgers.
3. Shape the mixture into 5 patties, each approximately 3/4-inch thick. Ensure the patties are uniform in size for even cooking.
4. Preheat your broiler to high or set your oven to 550 degrees F (288 degrees C). If using the broiler, position the rack so the patties will be about 4 inches from the heat source.
5. Place the patties on a baking sheet or broiler pan.
6. Broil the patties for approximately 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning once, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. A meat thermometer inserted into the center of the patty should read 160°F (71°C) for medium.
7. Remove the patties from the broiler or oven.
8. Top each patty with a generous portion of drained sauerkraut. Distribute the sauerkraut evenly over the surface of each burger.
9. Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut-covered patties.
10. Return the patties to the broiler or oven and broil for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
11. Serve immediately on toasted rye or pumpernickel buns or bread.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overwork the meat: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid tough burgers.
• Chill the patties: For firmer burgers that hold their shape better, refrigerate the formed patties for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Toast the buns: Toasting the buns adds a nice textural contrast and prevents them from getting soggy. Buttering them before toasting is also a great idea.
• Ensure proper draining of the sauerkraut: Excess moisture from the sauerkraut can make the burger soggy. Squeeze out any excess liquid before adding it to the patties.
• For a richer flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing to the burger mixture for a more authentic Reuben taste.
• If you prefer grilling: These burgers can also be grilled. Grill over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Add the sauerkraut and cheese during the last minute of grilling to melt the cheese.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Reuben burgers immediately for the best flavor and texture. They are delicious with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or potato salad. For a complete Reuben experience, offer a side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping.

Leftover cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Note that the texture of the cheese may change upon reheating. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture and flavor of the burger.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	722 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	649 g	90%
Total Fat	72.2 g	111%
Saturated Fat	31.7 g	158%
Cholesterol	115.7 mg	38%
Sodium	194 mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	2.4 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.2 g	0%
Sugars	0.7 g	2%
Protein	15.1 g	30%

Variations & Substitutions

• Turkey Reuben Burgers: Substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Reuben Burgers: Use plant-based ground meat substitutes to make a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Reuben Burgers: Serve the burgers on gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Ensure the corned beef spread or deviled ham is also gluten-free.
• Spicy Reuben Burgers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the burger mixture for a kick. You can also use a spicy mustard instead of Thousand Island dressing.
• Deluxe Reuben Burgers: Top the burgers with a fried egg or some caramelized onions for added flavor and richness.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make the patties ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Q: What if I don’t have corned beef spread or deviled ham?
A: If you don’t have either of these, you can use finely shredded corned beef instead. Just make sure to shred it very finely so it mixes well with the ground beef.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While Swiss is the classic choice for a Reuben, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or provolone.

Q: How do I prevent the burgers from drying out?
A: Avoid overcooking the burgers. Cook them just until they reach your desired level of doneness. Adding a bit of breadcrumbs to the burger mixture can also help retain moisture.

Q: Can I bake these burgers instead of broiling?
A: Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Final Thoughts

These Reuben Burgers are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a new and exciting format. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature Reuben Burger. So, fire up the grill (or broiler!), gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a burger that’s sure to impress. Let me know how it turns out and what creative twists you add! Perhaps pair it with a hearty stout or a crisp dill pickle for the full experience. Happy cooking!