Rachel Sandwich Recipe

There’s nothing like biting into a warm, gooey Rachel sandwich. The tangy crunch of coleslaw, the savory richness of turkey, and the melty Swiss cheese all come together on perfectly toasted rye bread for a sandwich that’s pure comfort food.

this Recipe

I first discovered the Rachel sandwich during a weekend getaway at a charming diner tucked away in the mountains. It was love at first bite! Ever since, this variation of the classic Reuben has been my go-to for a quick and satisfying lunch that never disappoints.

Ready to bring this deli favorite into your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Rachel Sandwich

Get ready to meet your new sandwich obsession. The Rachel takes everything you love about the Reuben and gives it a delicious twist.

It’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a skillet, you can whip up this sandwich in less than 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.

It’s packed with bold flavors and textures. Between the creamy Russian dressing, tangy coleslaw, and smoky turkey, every bite is an explosion of taste.

It’s endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer a classic rye or want to try it with sourdough, this sandwich adapts beautifully to your preferences.

It’s a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters fall in love with the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve it with a side of chips or a pickle, and you’ve got a winner.

With all these perks, the Rachel is sure to become a regular in your sandwich rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of the Rachel sandwich lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this sandwich unforgettable. Let’s break it down:

Rye Bread: The slightly tangy, earthy flavor of rye bread is the perfect complement to the rich ingredients. If you’re not a fan of rye, sourdough or whole wheat bread are great alternatives.

Turkey: Thinly sliced deli turkey is the protein of choice here. It’s smoky, savory, and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. You can also use leftover roasted turkey for an extra homemade touch.

Swiss Cheese: Melty, nutty Swiss cheese ties the whole sandwich together. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping it for gouda or provolone.

Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw are what set the Rachel apart from its cousin, the Reuben. Use your favorite store-bought variety or whip up a quick homemade slaw for a fresher flavor.

Russian Dressing: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet Russian dressing is a must. If you don’t have any on hand, Thousand Island dressing works just as well.

You’ll also need a bit of butter or oil for toasting the bread to golden perfection. No special equipment is required – a nonstick skillet or griddle will do the trick.

How To Make This Rachel Sandwich

Making a Rachel sandwich at home is quick, easy, and oh-so-rewarding. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prep Your Ingredients
   Start by gathering all your ingredients. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread for that perfect golden crust. Lay the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
2. Assemble the Sandwich
   On one slice of bread, layer Swiss cheese, deli turkey, and a generous helping of coleslaw. Spread Russian dressing on the other slice of bread and place it on top, buttered side up.
3. Toast to Perfection
   Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwich in the skillet and press it down gently with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
4. Slice and Serve
   Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. Slice it in half diagonally and serve immediately.

Total time? Just about 10-12 minutes! The result is a golden, gooey sandwich that’s sure to disappear as quickly as it came together.

Storage Options

While the Rachel sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time to save on assembly.

• Prepped Ingredients: Store leftover turkey and Swiss cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Coleslaw should also be refrigerated and used within 3-4 days.
• Assembled Sandwich: If you need to make the sandwich ahead, assemble it without toasting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Toast it right before serving.
• Reheating Tips: To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid to ensure the cheese melts evenly without burning the bread.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel sandwich is delightfully versatile. Here are some creative ways to switch it up:

• Swap the Meat: Not a fan of turkey? Try pastrami, corned beef, or even grilled chicken.
• Make It Vegetarian: Replace the meat with roasted veggies or a plant-based deli alternative.
• Change Up the Bread: Use sourdough, pumpernickel, or even a hearty ciabatta for a fun twist.
• Experiment with Cheese: Gouda, cheddar, or Havarti add a unique flair to the sandwich.
• Try a New Dressing: While Russian dressing is classic, you can switch it out for chipotle mayo or Dijon mustard for a bolder flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – the Rachel sandwich is a canvas for your culinary imagination.

Whether you’re a seasoned sandwich aficionado or just looking for a new go-to recipe, the Rachel sandwich delivers on every level. With its bold flavors, crispy texture, and ooey-gooey cheese, it’s a guaranteed hit every time. Happy cooking!

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