If you’re a burger lover looking for a unique twist on a classic, then the Reuben Burger Recipe New York is the perfect culinary adventure for you. This mouthwatering creation takes all the delicious elements of a Reuben sandwich and transforms them into a juicy and flavorful burger. With savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey Swiss cheese, and a dollop of creamy Russian dressing, each bite will transport you straight to the bustling streets of New York City. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your burger game with this delectable recipe.
Ingredients
To make a delicious Reuben burger, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ground beef
The base of your burger will be made from ground beef. Opt for lean ground beef to keep your Reuben burger juicy and flavorful.
Corned beef
Adding corned beef to your Reuben burger will give it that classic New York twist. Make sure to thinly slice the corned beef before adding it to the ground beef mixture.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a key ingredient in a Reuben burger. This fermented cabbage adds a tangy and crunchy element to the burger. Make sure to drain the sauerkraut before using it in your recipe.
Swiss cheese
Swiss cheese is a traditional choice for Reuben burgers. Its mild yet nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Thousand Island dressing
The secret sauce to a fantastic Reuben burger is Thousand Island dressing. This creamy and tangy dressing adds an extra layer of deliciousness to your burger.
Rye bread
To complete the Reuben burger experience, you’ll need some rye bread. The slightly tangy and hearty flavor of rye bread complements the other ingredients in the burger.
Salt and black pepper
Don’t forget to season your burger patties with some salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavors of the meat and other ingredients.
Butter
To ensure a juicy and flavorful Reuben burger, it’s a good idea to cook the burger patties in butter. Butter adds richness and helps to create a nice crust on the outside of the patties.
Optional toppings
While the traditional Reuben burger includes the ingredients listed above, you can get creative with additional toppings. Pickles, tomato slices, lettuce, onion slices, mustard, mayonnaise, and additional cheese are all great options to customize your burger to your liking.
Preparation
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing your Reuben burger.
Preparing the ground beef
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef until it is well combined and no longer clumpy. This will ensure that your burger patties have an even distribution of flavors.
Mixing in the corned beef
After thinly slicing the corned beef, add it to the bowl with the ground beef. Gently mix the two meats together, making sure not to overwork the mixture. You want the corned beef to distribute evenly throughout without completely breaking down.
Forming the burger patties
Divide the ground beef and corned beef mixture into equal portions, depending on the desired size of your burgers. Shape the mixture into patties, ensuring they are evenly sized and compact.
Seasoning the patties
Sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of each patty. This will add a touch of flavor and enhance the taste of the meat.
Cooking the patties
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a generous amount of butter. Once the butter has melted, carefully place the burger patties on the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the patties reach your desired level of doneness.
Assembling the Reuben burger
To assemble your Reuben burger, start by spreading Thousand Island dressing on both sides of the rye bread. Place a patty on the bottom slice of bread and add sauerkraut and Swiss cheese on top. Finish it off with the top slice of bread.

Optional Toppings
While the classic Reuben burger is delicious as is, you can further elevate its flavors with optional toppings.
Pickles
For a tangy and crunchy addition, add some pickles to your Reuben burger. It will add an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
Tomato slices
If you’re a fan of juicy tomatoes, consider adding some fresh tomato slices to your Reuben burger. They will balance out the richness of the other ingredients.
Lettuce
To add a bit of crunch and freshness, add some lettuce leaves to your Reuben burger. It will provide a nice contrast in texture.
Onion slices
If you enjoy the flavor and aroma of onions, thinly sliced onion rings can be a tasty addition to your Reuben burger.
Mustard
If you prefer a touch of tanginess and spiciness, spread some mustard on your Reuben burger. It will add an extra kick of flavor.
Mayonnaise
For a creamy and rich addition, spread some mayonnaise on your Reuben burger. It will enhance the overall texture and taste.
Additional cheese
If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese as an additional topping. Swiss, cheddar, or even a smoky Gouda can take your Reuben burger to the next level.
Tips and Variations
For those looking to switch things up or try alternative options, here are some tips and variations to consider:
Using ground turkey instead of beef
For a lighter twist on the classic Reuben burger, substitute ground beef with ground turkey. It’s a healthier option that still provides a great base for the other ingredients.
Adding Russian dressing instead of Thousand Island dressing
While Thousand Island dressing is the traditional choice, you can swap it out for Russian dressing. Russian dressing has a spicier and tangier flavor profile, bringing a different dimension to your Reuben burger.
Grilling the burger instead of pan-frying
If you prefer the smoky flavor and char marks that come from grilling, try cooking your Reuben burger on a grill instead of pan-frying it. Just make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Making mini Reuben sliders
For a fun and bite-sized option, make mini Reuben sliders. Use smaller buns or rolls and adjust the portion size of the patties and toppings accordingly.
Trying different types of bread
While rye bread is the traditional choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of bread. Sourdough, pretzel buns, or even a hearty multigrain bread can add a unique twist to your Reuben burger.
Experimenting with different cheeses
Swiss cheese may be the classic pairing, but feel free to get creative and try different types of cheese. From tangy goat cheese to smoky provolone, the cheese you choose can significantly impact the overall flavor of your Reuben burger.

Serve and Enjoy
Once you’ve assembled your Reuben burger masterpiece, it’s time to serve and enjoy it.
Plating the Reuben burger
Place your Reuben burger on a plate, and if desired, garnish with some extra sauerkraut or pickles for presentation. You can also cut it in half to show off the layers of ingredients.
Serving with side dishes
To make your Reuben burger a complete meal, serve it with some classic side dishes such as french fries, coleslaw, or a green salad. These sides will complement the flavors of the burger and provide a well-rounded dining experience.
Pairing with beverages
Consider pairing your Reuben burger with a beverage that complements its flavors. A cold beer, such as a crisp lager or an amber ale, is a popular choice. Alternatively, a refreshing soda or a glass of iced tea can also be a great accompaniment.
Enjoying the flavors of NYC
With every bite of your homemade Reuben burger, savor the flavors reminiscent of New York City. The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing will transport you to the bustling streets of the Big Apple.
Conclusion
Delicious homemade Reuben burgers are a fantastic way to indulge in the flavors of New York. With the perfect blend of ground beef, corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and rye bread, you’ll have a taste of the city in every bite. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and experiment with different variations to make the Reuben burger your own. Whether you’re impressing your friends at a backyard barbecue or treating your family to a special meal, the Reuben burger is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So fire up the grill or heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a truly iconic and delicious burger.
