There's nothing quite like the comforting crunch of a perfectly grilled Rachel Sandwich. This twist on the classic Reuben swaps out corned beef for tender turkey, delivering a lighter yet equally indulgent sandwich experience. The tangy bite of coleslaw paired with gooey Swiss cheese and zesty Russian dressing makes every bite unforgettable.

I first fell in love with the Rachel Sandwich on a road trip through the Midwest, where a small diner served it as their signature dish. Ever since, it has become my go-to when I’m craving something hearty but a little different. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your rotation of easy, delicious meals.

Why You'll Love This Rachel Sandwich

Get ready to meet your new favorite sandwich! The Rachel is a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up this diner-style classic in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend lunch.

The combination of ingredients is simply irresistible. From the crispy, golden bread to the creamy dressing and melty cheese, this sandwich delivers comfort in every bite. The turkey and coleslaw add a refreshing twist that feels lighter than a traditional Reuben.

Plus, this recipe is totally customizable. Whether you’re swapping out bread, adding a different cheese, or tweaking the dressing, the Rachel Sandwich can easily adapt to your preferences.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a bowl of soup or a side of chips, and you’ve got a meal everyone will rave about.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of the Rachel Sandwich lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe shine.

Rye Bread: Classic rye bread is essential for that signature flavor. Opt for seeded rye if you want an extra nutty kick, or marble rye for added visual appeal. If you’re not a rye fan, sourdough is a great substitute.
Turkey: Thinly sliced, deli-style turkey is the star of this sandwich. Smoked turkey works beautifully for an extra depth of flavor, but regular turkey breast is just as delicious.
Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a tangy crunch that sets the Rachel apart. You can use store-bought coleslaw to save time or whip up a quick homemade version with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing.
Swiss Cheese: The mild, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Feel free to use Gruyère or Havarti if you prefer something a little different.
Russian Dressing: This zesty sauce ties everything together. If you don’t have Russian dressing on hand, Thousand Island dressing is a great alternative. For a homemade touch, mix mayo, ketchup, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a skillet, a spatula, and your appetite!

How To Make This Rachel Sandwich

Creating a Rachel Sandwich is a breeze! Follow these simple steps for a sandwich that tastes like it came straight from your favorite deli.

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lay out your rye bread slices. Butter one side of each slice generously for that crispy, golden finish.
Layer the Sandwich: Place a slice of bread, buttered side down, on the skillet. Spread a generous layer of Russian dressing on the unbuttered side. Top with a slice of Swiss cheese, a few slices of turkey, a scoop of coleslaw, and another slice of cheese.
Cook the Sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out. Press the sandwich gently with a spatula to help everything meld together. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Slice and Serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing it in half. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like pickles or chips.

This whole process takes less than 20 minutes, making it perfect for any time you need a quick, satisfying meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), here’s how to store and reheat your Rachel Sandwich.

Refrigeration: Wrap the sandwich in foil or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the coleslaw might soften the bread slightly over time.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze a cooked Rachel Sandwich. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick meal later.
Reheating: To maintain the sandwich’s crispy texture, reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the bread soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel Sandwich is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Protein Swap: Not a turkey fan? Try using roast chicken, ham, or even thinly sliced pastrami for a delicious twist.
Different Cheese: While Swiss is classic, provolone or sharp cheddar would add a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce to your Russian dressing or sprinkle in some pepper jack cheese for a bit of heat.
Healthier Option: Swap butter for olive oil spray and use a whole-grain or gluten-free bread to make it lighter and diet-friendly.
Vegetarian Version: Replace turkey with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a veggie-packed version.

With its perfect balance of flavors and easy preparation, the Rachel Sandwich is a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it to guests, this sandwich is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!