If you love a classic Reuben sandwich but want a lighter twist, the Rachel Sandwich is here to win your heart. This deli favorite swaps out corned beef for turkey and replaces sauerkraut with crisp coleslaw, creating a fresh, tangy, and utterly delicious alternative. Toasted rye bread, creamy dressing, and melted Swiss cheese make this sandwich a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I first discovered the Rachel Sandwich during a trip to New York City, where deli culture thrives. It quickly became my go-to for an elevated, yet comforting, lunch. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen, perfect for everything from a lazy weekend brunch to a quick weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Rachel Sandwich

The Rachel Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, and here’s why it’ll quickly become your favorite too:

First, it’s a lighter take on a classic. By swapping in turkey and coleslaw, the Rachel feels fresher and less heavy while still packing all the flavor you love in a traditional Reuben.

Second, it’s easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy deli-quality results in your own kitchen.

Finally, it’s perfectly customizable. Whether you like your sandwich extra cheesy or prefer a spicier dressing, the Rachel adapts beautifully to your taste preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of the Rachel Sandwich lies in its balance of rich and fresh flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:

Rye Bread: Rye bread adds a distinct, slightly tangy flavor and a hearty texture that holds up well to the fillings. Marble rye is a great choice for extra visual appeal.
Turkey: Sliced deli-style turkey is the star protein in this sandwich. Opt for smoked or roasted turkey for the best flavor.
Swiss Cheese: This mild, nutty cheese melts perfectly, tying the whole sandwich together.
Coleslaw: A fresh, tangy coleslaw replaces the sauerkraut found in a traditional Reuben. Store-bought works fine, but homemade coleslaw takes this sandwich to the next level.
Russian Dressing: Creamy and tangy, this dressing is essential for that classic deli flavor. Thousand Island dressing is a great alternative if you can’t find Russian dressing.
Butter: Softened unsalted butter is used to grill the sandwich to golden perfection.

How to Make a Rachel Sandwich

Making a Rachel Sandwich is as easy as layering ingredients and grilling to perfection. Here’s how to do it:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Lay out all your ingredients—sliced rye bread, turkey, Swiss cheese, and coleslaw. Spread a generous layer of Russian dressing on one side of each slice of bread.
Assemble the Sandwich: On one slice of bread (dressing side up), layer 2-3 slices of turkey, a scoop of coleslaw, and 1-2 slices of Swiss cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, dressing side down.
Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter on the outside of each slice of bread. This ensures a perfectly golden, crispy crust.
Grill the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve Hot: Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately. Pair with a pickle spear or chips for the full deli experience.

Storage Options

While the Rachel Sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, here’s how you can prep and store it:

Prepped Ingredients: Keep the coleslaw and turkey in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Russian dressing can be stored in a jar in the fridge for up to a week.
Assembled Sandwich: If you need to make it ahead, assemble the sandwich (without grilling) and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 1 day and grill just before serving.
Leftover Sandwich: If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich in foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to regain its crispy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

The Rachel Sandwich is versatile, so feel free to make it your own with these ideas:

Protein Swap: While turkey is traditional, you can use roast chicken or even smoked salmon for a different twist.
Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese for Havarti, provolone, or gouda for a new flavor profile.
Bread Alternatives: If rye isn’t your favorite, try sourdough, whole grain, or even a ciabatta roll.
Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of hot sauce to the coleslaw or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the Russian dressing for some heat.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load up on extra coleslaw, cheese, and sautéed mushrooms for a veggie-packed alternative.

Tips for the Best Rachel Sandwich

Don’t Skip the Butter: Buttering the bread is key to achieving that golden, crispy crust. Make sure it’s evenly spread for the best results.
Low and Slow Cooking: Cook the sandwich over medium-low heat to ensure the bread doesn’t burn before the cheese melts.
Homemade Coleslaw: If you have time, make your own coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, mayo, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. It’s fresher and more flavorful than store-bought.

The Rachel Sandwich is a delicious twist on a deli classic, offering a perfect mix of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or an indulgent dinner, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot. So grab your favorite rye bread and give it a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!