Rachel Sandwich Recipe

There's something truly comforting about biting into a warm, toasted Rachel sandwich. This delightful twist on the classic Reuben replaces corned beef with turkey and swaps sauerkraut for coleslaw, giving it a lighter, tangier profile that’s perfect for any time of year.

I first discovered the Rachel while experimenting with leftover Thanksgiving turkey, and it quickly became a household favorite. With its gooey Swiss cheese, crisp coleslaw, and zesty Russian dressing all packed between buttery rye bread, this sandwich is a flavor-packed meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Let’s dive into why this sandwich deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation.

Why You'll Love This Rachel Sandwich

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite sandwich. The Rachel is a perfect combination of savory, tangy, and creamy, making every bite irresistible.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. Whether you're crafting it as a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, you can have this sandwich hot and ready in under 20 minutes.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. Use deli-sliced turkey for convenience, or transform leftover turkey from a holiday meal into something extraordinary.

And then there’s the flavor – the buttery toasted rye bread is the perfect vehicle for the melty Swiss cheese, crisp coleslaw, and tangy Russian dressing. This sandwich is a true crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.

Finally, the Rachel sandwich can be customized endlessly. Add extra cheese, experiment with different slaws, or try a new twist with a flavored rye. It's a recipe that adapts to your cravings!

Now that you’re hooked, let’s look at the simple ingredients that make this sandwich shine.

Ingredients Notes

The Rachel sandwich comes together with just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the overall taste and texture.

Turkey is the star of this recipe. Use deli-sliced turkey for convenience, or slice up leftover roasted turkey for a heartier texture. Smoked turkey also adds an extra layer of depth.

Coleslaw is what makes this sandwich a Rachel instead of a Reuben. Its tangy crunch provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the other components. If you’re short on time, store-bought coleslaw works wonderfully.

Swiss cheese brings a mild nuttiness and melts beautifully. For the best results, choose thinly sliced cheese that covers the bread evenly.

Russian dressing ties everything together with its creamy, tangy kick. You can make your own by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, and a touch of horseradish, or grab a jar of your favorite brand.

Rye bread is the foundation of this sandwich. Its robust flavor and chewy texture complement the filling perfectly. Marble rye is an excellent option if you’re feeling fancy.

You’ll also need a little butter for grilling the sandwich. This ensures that golden, crispy exterior that makes every bite a delight.

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking!

How To Make This Rachel Sandwich

Creating a Rachel sandwich is quick and easy – perfect for a satisfying meal in no time.

Start by preheating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. While it warms up, spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. This will help achieve that golden, crispy finish when grilled.

Next, assemble the sandwich. Lay one slice of bread butter-side down on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of Russian dressing on the unbuttered side, then layer on the turkey slices, Swiss cheese, and a scoop of coleslaw. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.

Place the sandwich in the preheated skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even toasting. Flip carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it in half. This short wait allows the ingredients to settle and prevents the filling from spilling out.

Enjoy your warm, crispy, and oh-so-flavorful Rachel sandwich immediately!

Storage Options

While the Rachel sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time for quicker assembly.

If you’re using roasted turkey, slice it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The same goes for homemade coleslaw and Russian dressing – both can be prepared ahead of time and kept refrigerated.

Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but keep in mind that the bread may lose its crispness. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to restore some of the texture.

Avoid freezing assembled sandwiches, as the coleslaw and dressing won’t hold up well to freezing and thawing.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel sandwich is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

• Swap the turkey for chicken or ham if that’s what you have on hand. Each option offers a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses. While Swiss is traditional, Havarti or provolone are delicious alternatives that melt beautifully.
• Try different slaws. Classic coleslaw works great, but you can switch it up with a vinegar-based slaw or even a spicy jalapeño version for a kick.
• Use different breads. If rye isn’t your thing, opt for sourdough, multigrain, or even a crusty ciabatta roll.
• Make it vegetarian by swapping the turkey for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

The beauty of the Rachel sandwich lies in its versatility, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this sandwich is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to give it a try?

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