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Rachel Sandwich Recipe

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3.9 from 27 reviews

The Rachel Sandwich is a delicious and hearty dinner option featuring layers of smoked turkey, pastrami, Swiss cheese, and crunchy coleslaw between buttery rye bread. This sandwich combines creamy, tangy dressing with savory meats and melted cheese, grilled to golden perfection in a skillet for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Coleslaw

  • 2 Cups coleslaw mix (bagged shredded cabbage and carrots)
  • ¼ Cup coleslaw dressing (bottled)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Sandwich Dressing

  • ¼ Cup mayonnaise
  • 1 Tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 Tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • ½ Teaspoon white vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Sandwich Assembly

  • 4 Slices rye bread
  • 6 Ounces smoked turkey, thinly sliced
  • 6 Ounces pastrami, thinly sliced
  • 8 Slices Swiss cheese
  • 4 Tablespoons butter, at room temperature

Instructions

  1. Make the Coleslaw: In a medium bowl, combine the coleslaw mix and bottled coleslaw dressing. Toss well until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble the sandwiches.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and white vinegar. Mix until smooth and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside for later use.
  3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the prepared dressing on the non-buttered side of each slice. Lay two slices of Swiss cheese over the dressing. Evenly layer smoked turkey and pastrami over the cheese. Add half of the prepared coleslaw on top of the meats on each sandwich. Spread dressing on one side of the remaining bread slices and place these on top, dressing side down, with the buttered side facing up.
  4. Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet and cover with a lid to ensure the cheese melts evenly. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side until the bread is golden brown and cheese starts to melt. Flip gently using a spatula and cook another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cheese is fully melted. Remove from heat and let rest for one minute.
  5. Serve: Slice each sandwich diagonally in half and serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

  • Using a lid while cooking the sandwiches helps melt the cheese thoroughly without burning the bread.
  • Adjust seasoning in both coleslaw and dressing according to taste preferences.
  • Thinly sliced meats ensure even layering and easier sandwich biting experience.
  • Can be served with pickles or chips for a complete meal.
  • Use fresh butter at room temperature for easier spreading.