There's something special about the satisfying crunch of toasted rye bread paired with the creamy tang of coleslaw and the savory flavor of sliced turkey. The Rachel Sandwich is a lighter, equally delectable twist on the classic Reuben, and it's a favorite in our home, especially for a quick lunch or casual dinner.

I first tried a Rachel Sandwich on a spontaneous weekend lunch outing with friends, and it was love at first bite. Ever since, I’ve perfected my own version that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible sandwich.

Why You'll Love This Rachel Sandwich

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delicious and easy-to-make Rachel Sandwich. It's all about flavor, texture, and a balance that just works.

The combination of tender, thinly sliced turkey and melted Swiss cheese gives this sandwich a rich, comforting quality. But it's the contrasting crunch of coleslaw and the zesty punch of Russian dressing that make it truly special. Each bite is an explosion of textures and tastes that’ll have you craving another.

Plus, it's a breeze to make. You’ll have this sandwich ready to enjoy in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekend afternoons. There’s no need for complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients, and you can easily customize it based on what you have in your kitchen.

The Rachel Sandwich also offers a healthier, poultry-based alternative to traditional deli fare. Using turkey instead of corned beef keeps things lighter without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this sandwich is sure to impress.

Ready to get started? Let’s break down what you need and how to make it!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of the Rachel Sandwich lies in the thoughtful assembly of fresh, simple ingredients. Each element works in harmony to create a flavor-packed meal.

Rye Bread: Opt for freshly sliced rye bread, as its earthy, slightly sour flavor perfectly complements the other ingredients. For added crunch, make sure to toast it to a golden brown.

Turkey: Thinly sliced turkey is the star protein in this sandwich. You can use freshly roasted turkey breast or deli-style turkey slices. Either way, make sure the meat is moist and flavorful for the best results.

Swiss Cheese: This mild, creamy cheese melts beautifully and pairs well with the turkey and rye. If you’re looking for a stronger cheese flavor, feel free to add an extra slice.

Coleslaw: You can make your own fresh coleslaw or use a store-bought version for convenience. The creamy crunch adds a wonderful texture and bright flavor contrast to the sandwich.

Russian Dressing: This tangy, slightly spicy dressing brings everything together. You can easily make it at home with simple pantry ingredients: mayonnaise, ketchup, a dash of hot sauce, and a pinch of onion powder.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a good non-stick skillet to toast the sandwich and ensure the cheese melts perfectly. Trust me, this step makes a world of difference!

How To Make This Rachel Sandwich

Making a Rachel Sandwich is quick, easy, and so satisfying. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Start by preparing your work surface and gathering all your ingredients. It helps to have everything within reach for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.

Begin by spreading a generous layer of Russian dressing on one side of each slice of rye bread. Make sure to coat it evenly for that classic tangy flavor in every bite.

Next, place a slice of Swiss cheese on one piece of bread, over the dressing. Top the cheese with a generous amount of thinly sliced turkey. If you like a heartier sandwich, feel free to add an extra layer of turkey.

Add a heaping spoonful of coleslaw on top of the turkey. Spread it out evenly, but don’t overfill; you want the sandwich to hold together nicely when toasted. Place the second slice of rye bread, dressing-side down, on top.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small dab of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Carefully place the sandwich in the skillet and press it gently with a spatula. Let it toast for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted.

Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing. This brief wait allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut without the ingredients slipping out.

Storage Options

While the Rachel Sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers if needed. If you have any pre-made components, keep them separate for optimal freshness.

Refrigerate: Store sliced turkey, Swiss cheese, and coleslaw in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep your rye bread sealed to prevent it from drying out.

Pre-Assembled Sandwiches: If you have leftover assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Reheat in a skillet to revive the crisp texture of the bread.

Russian Dressing: Homemade dressing can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.

When reheating, warm the sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat to ensure the bread crisps up again while the cheese melts.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel Sandwich is delightfully versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking.

Meat Alternatives: Try using thinly sliced rotisserie chicken or smoked turkey for a different twist. Both options are juicy and flavorful.

Cheese Options: If Swiss isn’t your favorite, substitute it with provolone or mild cheddar. These cheeses melt well and add their own unique flavor profiles.

Bread Choices: While rye is traditional, you can use sourdough or multigrain bread if you prefer a different texture or taste. Just make sure to toast the bread well for a satisfying crunch.

Dressing Variations: If you’re not a fan of Russian dressing, you can use Thousand Island or even a zesty homemade aioli. Both options add a delightful creaminess.

Add Veggies: For a fresh and crunchy twist, consider adding slices of cucumber or fresh spinach leaves. It’s a great way to add some extra nutrients.

Feel free to get creative and experiment. This sandwich is forgiving and delicious no matter how you adapt it! Enjoy every crunchy, creamy, and savory bite.