The Ultimate Wedge Sandwich: Turkey, Roast Beef, and Coleslaw

I remember the first time I encountered a sandwich like this. It wasn’t in a fancy deli, but at a roadside diner somewhere between New York City and the Catskills. The towering layers of meat, the creamy coleslaw spilling out the sides, the tang of Russian dressing – it was an overwhelming, almost audacious creation. That first bite, the symphony of flavors and textures, cemented my love for over-the-top sandwiches forever. It’s a taste of pure, unapologetic comfort food, and I’m excited to share my version with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10
• Yield: 8-10 sandwiches
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced deli roasted turkey
• 1 lb thinly sliced deli roast beef
• 1 lb Swiss cheese
• 1 1⁄2 lbs Coleslaw
• 3⁄4 cup Russian salad dressing
• 1 loaf Jewish rye bread
• Sliced pickle (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large tray or cutting board
• Knife
• Spoon

Instructions

1. To begin assembling your epic wedge sandwiches, lay half of the Jewish rye bread slices flat on a large tray or cutting board. This will serve as your base.

2. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of Russian dressing evenly on each slice of bread. This adds moisture and that signature tangy flavor that ties everything together. Don’t skimp!

3. Now, add the thinly sliced deli roasted turkey and thinly sliced deli roast beef. Aim for about 4 slices of each meat per sandwich, but adjust according to your preference. I prefer mine super thin, for easier eating and a more balanced flavor profile. Layer the meats generously, covering the bread.

4. Next, generously spread about 1-2 tablespoons of coleslaw on top of the meat. The coleslaw provides a cool, creamy, and crunchy counterpoint to the rich meats and dressing. Make sure the coleslaw is well-drained to prevent a soggy sandwich.

5. Drizzle another 1 tablespoon of Russian dressing over the coleslaw. This second layer of dressing helps bind the coleslaw to the meat and bread and intensifies the overall flavor.

6. If desired, add sliced pickles. My husband isn’t a fan, so I usually serve them on the side, allowing everyone to customize their sandwich to their liking.

7. Finally, top each sandwich with the remaining piece of Jewish rye bread. Gently press down on the sandwich to help everything adhere together.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Meat Quality Matters: Invest in high-quality deli meats. The flavor of the turkey and roast beef will significantly impact the overall taste of the sandwich. Look for meats that are freshly sliced and have a good color and aroma.
• Coleslaw Considerations: Use a good quality, store-bought or homemade coleslaw. If making your own, avoid overly sweet recipes. A slightly tangy coleslaw will balance the richness of the other ingredients. Drain it well to prevent a soggy sandwich.
• Rye Bread is Key: Jewish rye bread is traditionally used for this type of sandwich, but you can experiment with other types of rye bread. Look for a loaf that is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.
• Russian Dressing Alternatives: If you don’t have Russian dressing, you can substitute Thousand Island dressing, or even a mixture of mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish.
• Assembling Ahead: You can assemble the sandwiches a few hours in advance, but keep them refrigerated to prevent the coleslaw from becoming soggy. I would recommend waiting to add the russian dressing until just before serving.
• Warming it up: You can lightly grill this sandwich for a minute or two on each side, like a grilled cheese. Use butter in the pan as opposed to oil.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your wedge sandwiches immediately for the best flavor and texture. They are delicious on their own or with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, potato salad, or a cup of soup.

If you have leftovers, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 2 days. Be aware that the coleslaw may become a little soggy over time.

I would not recommend freezing these sandwiches, as the coleslaw will not thaw well.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	650.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	273 g	42%
Total Fat	30.4 g	46%
Saturated Fat	12.7 g	63%
Cholesterol	129.4 mg	43%
Sodium	1378.7 mg	57%
Total Carbohydrate	45.6 g	15%
Dietary Fiber	4.2 g	16%
Sugars	6.7 g	26%
Protein	47.4 g	94%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Russian dressing for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, muenster, or pepper jack.
• Meat Variations: Add pastrami or corned beef for a Reuben-inspired twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Coleslaw Swaps: Try using a different type of slaw, such as broccoli slaw or Asian slaw.
• Bread Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of rye bread, you can use another type of bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches a few hours in advance, but keep them refrigerated to prevent the coleslaw from becoming soggy. Add the Russian dressing just before serving.

Q: Can I use pre-made coleslaw?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to choose a coleslaw that you enjoy the flavor of. Draining it well is key to preventing a soggy sandwich.

Q: What if I don’t like Russian dressing?
A: You can substitute Thousand Island dressing, or even a mixture of mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish.

Q: Can I grill this sandwich?
A: Yes, you can lightly grill this sandwich for a minute or two on each side, like a grilled cheese. Use butter in the pan as opposed to oil.

Q: How do I prevent the sandwich from falling apart?
A: Use sturdy bread and don’t overfill the sandwich. Gently pressing down on the sandwich after assembling it will also help.

Final Thoughts

This Wedge Sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a celebration of flavors and textures, a reminder of simple pleasures, and a testament to the power of a really good sandwich. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to find your perfect wedge. And don’t forget to share your creations and feedback! Pair it with a crisp dill pickle and your favorite beverage, and enjoy!