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Reuben Sandwich Inspired Pasta

This Reuben Sandwich Inspired Pasta is SO EASY! A quick skillet meal combining classic Reuben flavors into a comforting, cheesy pasta perfect for weeknights.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sauerkraut drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Pour in 1/2 cup of Thousand Island dressing and stir to coat the pasta and turkey mixture evenly.
  • 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.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain texture.
  • Try substituting ground turkey with plant-based meat and vegan cheese for a vegetarian version.
  • Use other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if rotini is unavailable.
  • Make your own Thousand Island dressing with mayo, ketchup, and pickle relish if needed.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy twist.