There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, toasty Rachel sandwich. A delightful twist on the classic Reuben, this sandwich swaps out corned beef for turkey and replaces tangy sauerkraut with crisp coleslaw. The result? A perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors.

I first discovered the Rachel when looking for a lighter alternative to the heavier Reuben. Now, it’s my go-to choice for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. Let’s dive into what makes this sandwich so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Rachel Sandwich

Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food. The Rachel sandwich is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make at home.

First, it’s a versatile meal that works for any time of day. Whether you need a hearty lunch or a no-fuss dinner, this sandwich has you covered.

The combination of ingredients creates a medley of textures and flavors. The buttery rye bread toasts to golden perfection, the smoked turkey provides a savory kick, and the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.

If you’re a fan of cheesy goodness, you’ll love how the Swiss cheese melts beautifully over the turkey, bringing everything together in one glorious bite.

Best of all, it’s quick to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality sandwich right from your kitchen.

Ingredients Notes

The Rachel sandwich shines with simple, high-quality ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why each one matters.

Rye Bread: The foundation of the Rachel, rye bread adds a nutty, slightly sour flavor that pairs perfectly with the turkey and cheese. If you prefer a milder taste, marble rye is an excellent option.
Smoked Turkey: Opt for thinly sliced smoked turkey for the best flavor. The smoky undertones elevate the sandwich while keeping it light.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese is mild yet creamy, melting perfectly over the turkey. You can also use Gruyère for a slightly nutty variation.
Coleslaw: A refreshing substitute for sauerkraut, coleslaw brings a touch of sweetness and crunch to the sandwich. Store-bought works well, but homemade coleslaw takes it up a notch.
Russian Dressing: The tangy, creamy dressing ties all the ingredients together. You can make your own with a mix of mayo, ketchup, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or grab a bottle from the store.

Finally, you’ll need a large skillet or griddle to toast the sandwich to perfection. A spatula for flipping and a little butter for the pan are all the tools you’ll need.

How to Make This Rachel Sandwich

Making a Rachel sandwich is as simple as layering, toasting, and enjoying. Follow these steps to create the ultimate homemade sandwich.

Start by spreading butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. This will ensure a crisp, golden-brown crust when toasted.

Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, on a heated skillet or griddle. Spread a generous layer of Russian dressing on the upward-facing side.

Layer the smoked turkey evenly over the dressing, followed by the Swiss cheese. Add a scoop of coleslaw on top, spreading it out for even coverage.

Top it with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing up. Press down lightly to help the sandwich hold its shape.

Toast the sandwich over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s ready when the bread is golden brown, and the cheese is melted.

Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board, let it cool for a minute, and slice it in half. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, the Rachel sandwich can be stored for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to two days. For the best results, store the components separately and assemble just before eating.

To reheat, place the sandwich on a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid to help melt the cheese while keeping the bread crispy.

Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy. A toaster oven works well if you’re short on time.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel sandwich is delightfully versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste.

Switch up the meat: Try roast chicken or ham instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with cheeses: Replace Swiss with provolone, Havarti, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Add extras: A slice of avocado or a handful of spinach can add freshness and color to the sandwich.
Make it vegetarian: Swap the turkey for a plant-based deli slice or roasted vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
Try different dressings: Thousand Island is a classic alternative to Russian dressing, or go bold with chipotle mayo.

Feel free to get creative – the Rachel sandwich is your canvas for culinary exploration. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try something new, it’s sure to be a hit.