Reuben Sandwich Inspired Pasta

There’s something truly comforting about the classic Reuben sandwich—the tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, savory meat, and that creamy Thousand Island dressing all come together in perfect harmony. Now, imagine all those flavors transformed into a hearty and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. This Reuben Sandwich Inspired Pasta is a delicious twist on the beloved sandwich, combining the best elements into one easy skillet meal that your whole family will love.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

If you adore the traditional Reuben sandwich but want a quicker, less messy way to enjoy those iconic flavors, this pasta is your new go-to. It’s packed with ground turkey for a lean protein punch, loads of tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese that melts beautifully over tender rotini pasta. The addition of Thousand Island dressing brings that classic creamy, sweet, and tangy note that ties everything together perfectly.

This recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you’re likely to have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a hungry family, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite because it’s comfort food with a fresh twist. And if you love experimenting with Reuben flavors, you might want to check out my Reuben Bake Recipe for another fantastic way to enjoy those iconic tastes.

What We’re Using

• 8 ounces rotini pasta – The perfect shape to hold the sauce and bits of sauerkraut.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the turkey and aromatics to develop flavor.
• 1 pound ground turkey – A lean and flavorful protein base that keeps this dish light.
• 1 onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings that irresistible savory punch.
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed – The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature tangy bite.
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese – Melts perfectly for that creamy, cheesy goodness.
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing – Provides the creamy, tangy flavor that ties the whole dish together.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor.

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot – For boiling the rotini pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook the turkey and combine all ingredients seamlessly.
• Colander – For draining the pasta and rinsing the sauerkraut.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient portions.
• Knife and cutting board – To dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Cook Reuben Sandwich Inspired Pasta Like This

Step 1: Cook the rotini pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté aromatics and turkey

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 pound of ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Incorporate sauerkraut and cheese

Mix in 1 cup of drained and rinsed sauerkraut, stirring well to combine with the turkey mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top, letting it melt slightly as you stir. The cheese adds that creamy, melty texture essential to this dish.

Step 4: Add Thousand Island dressing

Pour in 1/2 cup of Thousand Island dressing and stir to coat the pasta and turkey mixture evenly. This dressing brings the perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and creaminess reminiscent of a classic Reuben sandwich.

Step 5: Combine pasta with the sauce

Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so the pasta is fully coated with the flavorful mixture. Let it cook together for 2-3 minutes on low heat to ensure everything is warm and well combined.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately, perhaps alongside a crunchy pickle or a fresh salad like The Best Easy Pasta Salad for a complete meal.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Replace ground turkey with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
• Use vegan Swiss-style cheese or nutritional yeast instead of shredded Swiss cheese for melty, cheesy flavor.
• Swap Thousand Island dressing for a vegan version or a homemade dressing made with vegan mayo, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish.
• Ensure your sauerkraut has no added animal-based ingredients—most are naturally vegan.

Testing Timeline

• Initial test: Adjusted seasoning and cooking time for the turkey to ensure juicy, flavorful protein.
• Second test: Experimented with rinsing sauerkraut to balance the tang without overpowering the dish.
• Final test: Perfected the amount of Thousand Island dressing to keep it creamy without making the pasta soggy.

Storage Pro Tips

This Reuben Sandwich Inspired Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess. For best texture, avoid freezing as the sauerkraut and cheese can become watery when thawed.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding onto the sauce, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is there a substitute for Thousand Island dressing?

If you don’t have Thousand Island on hand, you can mix mayonnaise with ketchup and finely chopped pickles or relish to create a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a Russian dressing or a creamy vinaigrette can work as well.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For a little kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic or stir in a dash of hot sauce with the Thousand Island dressing. You might also enjoy pairing this dish with Sweet Heat Overnight Bread And Butter Pickles for an extra layer of heat and tang.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the turkey mixture and cook the pasta in advance, then combine and heat everything just before serving. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze with minimal effort.

Similar Recipes

• Reuben Bake Recipe – A baked casserole version of the classic sandwich flavors.
• The Best Easy Pasta Salad – A light, refreshing pasta dish perfect for warm days.
• Sweet Heat Overnight Bread And Butter Pickles – A tangy, spicy pickle recipe that pairs wonderfully with Reuben-inspired meals.

Save & Share

This Reuben Sandwich Inspired Pasta is a delightful way to enjoy your favorite sandwich flavors in a new form. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or sharing it with friends, don’t forget to save this recipe to your collection and share it with others who love quick, flavorful meals. It’s comfort food made easy and delicious!

Enjoy every bite of this creative twist on a classic. It’s pasta night, elevated!

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