If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben but want something lighter and brighter, the Rachel Sandwich is your new best friend. This delicious twist swaps out corned beef for turkey and replaces sauerkraut with tangy coleslaw, all layered with melty Swiss cheese and creamy Russian dressing on perfectly grilled rye bread. It’s the ultimate comfort sandwich with a fresh, zesty flair.

I first discovered the Rachel Sandwich at a cozy deli, and it quickly became my favorite. The combination of smoky turkey, crunchy slaw, and buttery, toasted bread is downright irresistible. Let’s dive into why this sandwich deserves a spot in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Rachel Sandwich

Get ready to fall for the Rachel Sandwich – a deli classic that’s both hearty and refreshing.

First off, it’s easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients and a skillet, you can create a restaurant-quality sandwich in minutes.

The flavors are perfectly balanced. The mild, smoky turkey pairs beautifully with the creamy Russian dressing, tangy coleslaw, and nutty Swiss cheese.

It’s also versatile. Whether you’re using leftover turkey, deli slices, or even rotisserie chicken, this sandwich adapts to what you have on hand.

Finally, the texture is unbeatable. The crispy rye bread, gooey cheese, and crunchy slaw make every bite satisfying and memorable.

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this sandwich shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of the Rachel Sandwich comes from its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Turkey: Thinly sliced smoked turkey is the star of this sandwich. It brings a mild, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. You can also use leftover Thanksgiving turkey for a fun twist.
Swiss Cheese: Its creamy, nutty flavor melts beautifully and adds richness. Opt for good-quality Swiss for the best results.
Coleslaw: A classic cabbage-based slaw adds tang and crunch. Store-bought or homemade works – just make sure it’s not overly wet to avoid soggy bread.
Russian Dressing: This creamy, tangy dressing ties everything together. If you don’t have it on hand, Thousand Island dressing is a great substitute.
Rye Bread: Traditional rye or marble rye bread provides the perfect sturdy base with a hint of caraway. If you’re not a fan of rye, sourdough is a great alternative.
Butter: Softened butter is essential for creating that golden, crispy crust on the bread.

How To Make a Rachel Sandwich

Creating this deli masterpiece is quick and easy. Follow these steps to make the perfect Rachel Sandwich:

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather your sliced turkey, coleslaw, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing. Butter one side of each slice of bread generously.
Assemble the Sandwich: Place one slice of bread butter-side down on a clean surface. Spread Russian dressing on the unbuttered side, then layer on Swiss cheese, turkey, a generous scoop of coleslaw, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
Heat the Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Cook the Sandwich: Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. The bread should turn golden brown, and the cheese should melt beautifully.
Serve Immediately: Remove the sandwich from the skillet, let it cool for a minute, and slice it in half. Serve hot with a side of chips or pickles.

Storage Options

The Rachel Sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to handle leftovers or prep ahead:

Assembled Sandwich: If you’ve already made the sandwich, wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore the crispy texture.
Individual Components: Store turkey, coleslaw, and dressing separately in airtight containers. Assemble and cook the sandwich just before serving for the freshest taste.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel Sandwich is incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

Protein Swap: Substitute turkey with roast chicken, smoked ham, or even pastrami for a unique twist.
Cheese Options: While Swiss is traditional, provolone, Havarti, or gouda work beautifully for different flavor profiles.
Dressing Alternatives: If you’re out of Russian dressing, try Thousand Island, mayo with a splash of ketchup, or even honey mustard for a tangy kick.
Add Veggies: Layer in sliced tomatoes, avocado, or roasted red peppers for added freshness and flavor.
Bread Choices: Rye bread is classic, but sourdough, multigrain, or even brioche can add a fun twist.

No matter how you customize it, this sandwich is guaranteed to be a hit!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Rachel Sandwich with some kettle-cooked chips, a pickle spear, or a small bowl of soup for a complete deli-inspired meal. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy weekend treat, this sandwich is bound to become a favorite.

Give this Rachel Sandwich Recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of a deli classic with a fresh, homemade touch. You’ll love every bite!