As I stood over the grill, the enticing sizzle of lean beef sizzling against the pan drew me in like a nostalgic melody from my past. This recipe for Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers brings together the hearty flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich with a burger twist that will leave you craving more. Not only are these burgers a healthy alternative, but they also come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for a busy weeknight. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy beef topped with crispy corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and a creamy homemade Thousand Island dressing—it’s the ultimate comfort food, minus the guilt! Ready to create a satisfying meal that elevates your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
What makes these burgers so special?
Flavors Unite: These burgers capture the classic essence of a Reuben sandwich while delivering the juiciness of a burger—truly a match made in culinary heaven.
Quick and Easy: Prepared in just 20 minutes, they’re as perfect for weeknight dinners as they are for entertaining guests.
Healthier Choice: With lean ground beef and lightened ingredients, you get the indulgence of a cheeseburger without the excess calories.
Customizable: Want something different? Swap corned beef for pastrami or try a lettuce wrap—your kitchen, your rules!
Crowd-Pleasing: These burgers are sure to tantalize the taste buds of even the pickiest eaters, making them a go-to for family meals or gatherings.
Pair with some sweet potato fries or a refreshing salad for a well-rounded meal with those delightful Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers!
Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers Ingredients
For the Burgers
• Hamburger Buns – Structure and hold for the burger; opt for whole grain or gluten-free buns for a healthier choice.
• 96/4 Lean Ground Beef – The main protein source, delivering juiciness with fewer calories; substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Dehydrated Onion – Adds moisture and flavor; fresh onion can be used, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; soy sauce makes a great gluten-free substitute.
• Kosher Salt – Boosts flavor; regular salt can work too—just use less due to higher sodium content.
For the Toppings
• Corned Beef – Brings that iconic Reuben taste; feel free to use any deli corned beef or leftover brisket for convenience.
• Light Swiss Cheese – Adds creaminess and a mild flavor; consider provolone or reduced-fat cheddar as alternative options.
• Sauerkraut – Introduces tang and crunch; coleslaw can be a vibrant substitute or skip it for a simpler burger.
• Light Mayo – Forms the base of the Thousand Island dressing; Greek yogurt is a fantastic lower-fat option.
• Ketchup – Provides sweetness and moisture; look for a reduced-sugar version for a healthier option.
• Sweet Relish – Imparts sweetness to the dressing; can be replaced with chopped pickles or omitted entirely.
These delightful ingredients come together to create unforgettable Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers that are sure to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of light mayo, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of sweet relish until smooth. This creamy Thousand Island dressing adds a delightful zing to your Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld while you focus on the next steps.
Step 2: Heat Corned Beef & Sauerkraut
Chop 4 ounces of corned beef into bite-sized pieces. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the corned beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes until crispy, then stir in ½ cup of drained sauerkraut and warm for an additional 2 minutes. This step enhances the savory taste of your burgers with vibrant texture.
Step 3: Make Burger Patties
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of 96/4 lean ground beef, 2 tablespoons of dehydrated onion, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients, then form the mixture into 4 equal patties, about ¾ inch thick. This blending ensures rich flavors in your delicious Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers.
Step 4: Cook Burgers
Preheat your grill or a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat for a few minutes, then lightly spray with cooking spray. Place the burger patties on the grill or pan and cook for 3 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and they are beautifully browned. This searing locks in the juiciness.
Step 5: Melt Cheese
Once the burgers have cooked through, remove the pan from heat. Lay a slice of light Swiss cheese (or your preferred alternative) on each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil for about 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the burgers—creating a rich, creamy topping for your Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Spread 1.5 tablespoons of the prepared Thousand Island dressing on the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Layer the melted cheese-topped patties on top, followed by about 2 tablespoons each of the warm sauerkraut and crispy corned beef. This assembly combines all the delightful flavors and textures of a classic Reuben sandwich in burger form.
Expert Tips for Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers
Juiciness Matters: Avoid overcooking the lean beef; maintain a medium to medium-rare cook for the best flavor and texture in your Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers.
Cheese Melting: Cover your pan while melting the cheese to ensure it becomes beautifully gooey—all about that indulgent cheesy goodness!
Preheat the Pan: Ensure your skillet or grill is adequately preheated before cooking the patties. This step guarantees a lovely sear and maximizes flavor.
Onion Adjustment: If using fresh onions instead of dehydrated, be prepared to adjust cooking time to avoid raw bites in your burgers.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to swap the traditional toppings; adding variations like spicy mustard or different cheese can elevate your burgers even more!
What to Serve with Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers
Pairing these delightful burgers with complementary sides enhances the entire meal experience. Think of textures and flavors that will make each bite sing!
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, these provide a sweeter balance to the savory burgers.
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Classic Coleslaw: The creamy crunch of coleslaw brightens up the meal and adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty cheeseburgers.
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Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized flavor brings depth to the meal while the slight bitterness cuts through the richness of the burger.
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Tangy Pickles: Serving a side of dill pickles highlights the zesty notes of the Thousand Island dressing, enhancing every bite.
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Side Salad with Vinaigrette: A light, fresh salad pairs wonderfully, adding crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing for balance.
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Beer or Hard Cider: The fizz and complexity of a good craft beer or cider compliment the richness of the Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers beautifully.
Enhance your dining experience by playing with these vibrant side dishes to create a memorable meal around your delicious Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers!
How to Store and Freeze Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers
Fridge: Store assembled burgers in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet for best results.
Freezer: Wrap individual burgers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat frozen burgers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Separately Stored Toppings: Keep sauerkraut and dressing in separate containers in the fridge, ensuring freshness and crunch when ready to eat.
Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious burgers to suit your tastes!
- Pastrami Swap: Replace corned beef with pastrami for a smoky twist that adds a new layer of flavor. The rich taste will surprise and delight!
- Lettuce Wrap: Ditch the bun and use large lettuce leaves instead for a refreshing low-carb option. This adds crunch without the carbs, allowing the burger flavor to shine.
- Cheese Fun: Try gouda or pepper jack cheese to give your burgers a unique flair! The rich flavor of gouda or the spice of pepper jack can elevate bite after bite.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat. This twist creates a tantalizing contrast to the creamy Thousand Island dressing.
- Sweet Onion: Swap dehydrated onion for caramelized onion for a sweeter, more complex flavor profile. The sweetness of caramelized onion perfectly balances the tangy toppings.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based burger patty and swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative. This delicious twist captures the essence of the traditional burger without the animal products.
- Flavor Boosters: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the beef mixture for an aromatic touch. Fresh herbs can brighten the overall flavor, making each bite a little more invigorating!
- Sauerkraut Alternatives: Replace sauerkraut with coleslaw for a crunchy, creamy topping variation. The contrast of textures is delightful and adds a unique twist to this classic recipe.
Make these Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers your own—don’t hesitate to experiment with these substitutions and variations to truly create a meal that reflects your personal style!
Make Ahead Options
These Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Thousand Island dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can form the burger patties in advance; wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. To ensure the best quality, avoid adding the cheese and toppings until you’re ready to cook and serve. When you’re ready for dinner, simply grill the patties and top with cheese as instructed, then assemble with the dressing and toppings for a delicious, time-saving meal that feels indulgent without the hassle!
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Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for my burgers?
Absolutely! For these Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers, I recommend using 96/4 lean ground beef. This blend provides a juicy texture without excessive calories. If you’re looking for an even leaner option, ground turkey works beautifully as well. Just keep in mind that ground turkey can cook faster, so watch it closely to avoid dryness.
How should I store leftover burgers?
Very simple! Store any assembled burgers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or on a skillet to maintain their juicy texture. If you notice the buns getting soft, you can always toast them lightly in a pan before serving!
Can I freeze these cheeseburgers?
Definitely! To freeze your Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This way, they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in your fridge overnight and then warm them in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. Don’t forget to keep toppings like sauerkraut and dressing separate in the fridge to maintain freshness!
What should I do if my burgers are dry?
If you’ve found that your burgers turn out dry, don’t worry—this can happen, especially with lean meats. To help retain moisture next time, ensure not to overcook them; aim for medium to medium-rare. Also, using dehydrated onions, as suggested in this recipe, can help by adding extra moisture when cooking. If you’re still struggling, try incorporating a bit of Worcestershire sauce into the mix for added juiciness.
Are there any allergy considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! Since this recipe features elements like wheat in the hamburger buns and light mayo, anyone with gluten allergies should opt for gluten-free buns and a gluten-free dressing alternative, such as homemade yogurt-based dressings. Additionally, if there are issues with dairy, consider using plant-based cheeses or skipping the cheese altogether—these burgers will still taste fabulous!
Can I use different toppings for these burgers?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. For a spicy kick, you can swap out the Swiss cheese for pepper jack or some spicy mustard. You could also try adding avocado slices or fresh arugula for a bright twist. The beauty of these Lightened-Up Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers is that they are highly customizable, so let your taste buds guide you!
Deliciously Lightened Reuben-Style Cheeseburgers You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of light mayo, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of sweet relish until smooth.
- Chop 4 ounces of corned beef into bite-sized pieces. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the corned beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes until crispy, then stir in ½ cup of drained sauerkraut.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of 96/4 lean ground beef, 2 tablespoons of dehydrated onion, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix and form into 4 patties.
- Preheat grill or pan over medium-high heat and lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook burger patties for 3 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Remove pan from heat. Lay a slice of light Swiss cheese on each patty. Cover skillet for 1-2 minutes to melt cheese.
- Spread 1.5 tablespoons of the Thousand Island dressing on the bottom half of each bun. Add melted cheese-topped patties and top with warm sauerkraut and crispy corned beef.
