Rachel Sandwich Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into a Rachel sandwich—a delicious twist on the classic Reuben. With layers of tender turkey, tangy coleslaw, melty Swiss cheese, and just the right amount of Thousand Island dressing, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any time of year.

I discovered the Rachel sandwich while on a road trip, stopping at a small diner famous for its creative spins on comfort food. Ever since, this has been my go-to when I’m craving something savory and satisfying but with a lighter twist than its corned beef counterpart. Ready to make your own? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Rachel Sandwich Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite sandwich! This Rachel combines bold flavors with just the right amount of crunch and creaminess.

It’s a quick and easy meal you can whip up in under 20 minutes. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Unlike the Reuben, the Rachel features sliced turkey instead of corned beef, making it a lighter, fresher option. Paired with coleslaw in place of sauerkraut, it offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of tangy flavor.

The balance of textures and flavors is simply irresistible. From the crispy rye bread to the gooey melted cheese, every bite is pure comfort. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

This sandwich also doubles as a great way to use up leftovers. Got extra turkey from a holiday meal or coleslaw from a barbecue? Put them to good use in a Rachel sandwich!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of a Rachel sandwich comes from its carefully chosen layers. Each ingredient adds its own unique touch, so let’s talk about what makes this sandwich shine.

Rye Bread: Rye is a must for its distinctive flavor and slightly chewy texture. Opt for marbled rye for a striking visual or stick with seeded rye for a classic taste.

Turkey: Thinly sliced deli-style turkey is the star here. Smoked turkey works beautifully, adding an extra layer of depth to the sandwich. Leftover roasted turkey is also a fantastic option if you have it.

Swiss Cheese: Creamy and slightly nutty, Swiss cheese melts perfectly into the sandwich. Don’t skimp on this—its rich flavor ties everything together.

Coleslaw: Instead of sauerkraut, we’re using a tangy, creamy coleslaw for crunch and balance. Store-bought coleslaw works well, but homemade takes it to the next level.

Thousand Island Dressing: This sweet, tangy dressing adds moisture and an extra layer of flavor. If you don’t have Thousand Island, Russian dressing is a great substitute.

You’ll also need a skillet or griddle to toast the sandwich to perfection.

How To Make This Rachel Sandwich

Making a Rachel sandwich is easy and straightforward, but the results are restaurant-worthy. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering classic step by step.

Start by prepping your ingredients. Lay out two slices of rye bread, your sliced turkey, Swiss cheese, and coleslaw. Butter one side of each slice of bread for that perfect golden crust when grilled.

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, into the pan. Spread a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing on the upward-facing side.

Layer the sandwich with turkey, Swiss cheese, and a scoop of coleslaw. Be careful not to overload, as you want everything to stay nicely contained while grilling. Top it with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.

Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Press gently with a spatula to help everything meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when the bread is golden and crispy, the cheese is melted, and the sandwich is heated through.

Slice it diagonally, serve immediately, and prepare to be amazed by the flavors and textures.

Storage Options

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry—this sandwich stores well with a few simple tips.

For short-term storage, wrap the sandwich tightly in foil and place it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within a day, as the coleslaw may make the bread soggy if stored too long.

To reheat, unwrap the sandwich and place it on a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly while the bread crisps back up. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread chewy and the filling unevenly heated.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel sandwich is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Swap out turkey for roasted chicken or even ham for a different protein option.

Try a different cheese—provolone, Gruyère, or even a sharp cheddar can add a new dimension to the sandwich.

Make it vegetarian by using a hearty meat substitute like tempeh or jackfruit and loading up on extra coleslaw.

Switch the bread to sourdough, whole wheat, or even a gluten-free option to suit your dietary needs.

Experiment with homemade dressings. A garlic aioli or Dijon mustard spread can bring a fresh twist to the classic Thousand Island.

Whichever way you make it, this Rachel sandwich is sure to become a household favorite. So grab your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and enjoy the comforting crunch and creamy goodness of this irresistible meal.

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