There’s something magical about the balance of savory turkey and tangy sauerkraut wrapped up in one perfect bite. Whether you’re using up leftover turkey or grabbing some deli slices, turkey roll-ups with sauerkraut are a ridiculously easy way to turn basic ingredients into something crave-worthy.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything: the difference between a Reuben and a Rachel, two ways to make these roll-ups (pinwheels and low-carb wraps), and three killer serving methods, including a crisp pan-fried version and a quick air fryer trick. Ready to level up your lunch game or party appetizer? Let’s roll.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Story Behind My Turkey Roll-Ups with Sauerkraut
The Rachel Sandwich Reinvented
I’ll be honest, growing up, I had no clue what a “Rachel” sandwich was. All I knew was that Reubens were messy and delicious, and came piled high with meat and sauerkraut. It wasn’t until after I had kids and started cooking more that I realized Rachel was Reuben’s turkey-loving cousin. Same Swiss cheese and sauerkraut. Same creamy dressing. Just lighter, leaner, and (dare I say) more family-friendly.
That’s when I started playing with the idea of turkey roll-ups with sauerkraut. Why not take all the flavors of a Rachel sandwich and roll them up? It quickly became a favorite in my house, especially on busy nights when I needed a no-fuss dinner or something snackable for a lunchbox. Sometimes I use tortillas to make fun pinwheels. Other times, I skip the carbs and use turkey slices as the wrap for a low-carb version.
If you’ve got leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, this recipe is gold. If you’re hosting a party, it makes the perfect cold appetizer. And if you’re just in the mood for something warm and melty, the skillet or air fryer methods are where it’s at.
So whether you call it a Rachel, a roll-up, or just your new favorite snack, this turkey sauerkraut combo delivers every single time. And yes, sauerkraut absolutely belongs on a turkey sandwich.
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The Ultimate Turkey Roll-Ups with Sauerkraut (Easy Rachel Pinwheels)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These turkey roll-ups with sauerkraut are inspired by the Rachel sandwich. Choose from pinwheel-style wraps or low-carb turkey roll-ups, then serve them cold, pan-fried, or air-fried for the ultimate appetizer or lunch.
Ingredients
8 large slices turkey breast (deli-style or leftover)
1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and pressed dry
4 slices Swiss cheese
3 tablespoons Russian or Thousand Island dressing
2 large flour tortillas (optional, for pinwheels)
Instructions
1. Drain and press sauerkraut with paper towels to remove moisture.
2. Lay out tortillas or turkey slices.
3. Spread a thin layer of dressing on each tortilla or slice.
4. Layer turkey, sauerkraut, and cheese.
5. Roll up tightly. For tortillas, wrap in plastic and chill 30 minutes before slicing.
6. Slice into pinwheels or serve whole.
7. To serve warm, pan-fry or air fry until golden and melty.
Notes
Cold: Chill and slice into pinwheels for appetizers.
Pan-fried: Cook in a skillet with butter until golden.
Air-fried: Air fry at 375°F for 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: No cook, Air Fryer, Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
What Exactly Are Turkey & Sauerkraut Roll-Ups?
A Spin on the Classic Rachel
Turkey roll-ups with sauerkraut are essentially a modern, hand-held spin on the Rachel sandwich. A Rachel is like the Reuben’s lighter twin—made with smoked or roasted turkey instead of corned beef. Both sandwiches share the same tangy sauerkraut and creamy Russian or Thousand Island dressing. In this roll-up version, those flavors get layered into a flour tortilla or directly onto slices of turkey, then rolled tightly and served in different ways.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Want to keep it cold and crisp? Slice it into pinwheels. Prefer something warm and melty? Toss it into a skillet or air fryer. And if you’re watching carbs, the low-carb turkey wrap version skips the bread entirely while keeping all the flavor.
We’ll cover all these options so you can find your perfect version.
The Ingredients You Need for Turkey Roll-Ups with Sauerkraut
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
One of the reasons I love this recipe is because it uses everyday staples that come together in such a satisfying way. Here’s what you’ll need to make both the classic tortilla pinwheels and the low-carb turkey roll-ups. This combo is comforting, flavorful, and ideal for leftovers or fresh deli finds.
Ingredients for Turkey Roll-Ups with Sauerkraut
| Ingredient | Details & Tips |
| Turkey | Deli-sliced smoked or roasted turkey, or thin slices of leftover cooked turkey. |
| Sauerkraut | Use jarred or bagged refrigerated kraut. Drain and press well to avoid soggy wraps. |
| Swiss Cheese | Thin slices melt best. Baby Swiss or aged Swiss both work. Sub with provolone if needed. |
| Russian or Thousand Island Dressing | Russian is tangy and bold, Thousand Island is sweeter. Use your favorite or make your own. |
| Flour Tortillas (optional) | Use large, soft tortillas for pinwheels. Gluten-free options work too. Warm before rolling. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Two Styles
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you begin assembling, make sure everything is ready. Pat the sauerkraut dry with a paper towel so it doesn’t soak into the wrap. Lay out your turkey and cheese slices. If using tortillas, warm them slightly to make rolling easier.
Step 2: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Method A: The Pinwheel Version
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of dressing all the way to the edges. Layer with two slices of turkey, a small handful of drained sauerkraut, and one slice of Swiss cheese. Roll tightly from one end to the other. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes for clean slicing. Then cut into 1-inch pinwheels.
Method B: The Low-Carb Version
Take a large slice of turkey and lay it flat. Spread a dab of dressing down the center. Add a small amount of sauerkraut and a sliver of cheese. Roll it up tightly like a cigar. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Repeat with remaining slices.
Want to add a kick? Try brushing a bit of spicy garlic aioli inside the wrap for extra flavor.
3 Easy Ways to Serve Turkey Roll-Ups with Sauerkraut
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or pulling together last-minute appetizers, you can serve these roll-ups cold, pan-fried, or crisped up in the air fryer. Each version brings out something a little different in the turkey and sauerkraut combo. Here’s how to do all three.
Cold Appetizer Style: Perfect for Parties
This version is best when you’ve made the roll-ups using flour tortillas. Once assembled and rolled, wrap them tightly in plastic and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the cheese firm up and the flavors meld. When ready to serve, slice them into one-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife and secure each piece with a toothpick. It’s a great make-ahead option for lunchboxes or snack boards. I often pair it with this easy dill yogurt dip for something cool and creamy on the side.
Pan-Fried Roll-Ups: Crispy and Melty
To add a golden, crispy exterior and make the cheese inside wonderfully gooey, try pan-frying. After rolling up your pinwheels or low-carb turkey wraps, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a touch of butter or olive oil. Place the roll-ups seam-side down and cook for about two to three minutes per side until lightly browned and warmed through. The result is similar to a grilled Rachel sandwich, but less messy and much faster.
Air Fryer Method: Fast and Fuss-Free
For a hands-off option with crispy edges, the air fryer is perfect. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place your roll-ups in a single layer inside the basket and cook for four to six minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them during the last minute to avoid over-browning. This method works beautifully for both tortilla and turkey-only versions. The sauerkraut stays warm and tangy, while the cheese turns wonderfully melty.
Smart Tips, Tasty Variations, and Storage You Can Trust
These turkey roll-ups are simple, but a few clever tricks can take them from good to great. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, packing them for lunch, or prepping them ahead for a party, these tips help you make the most of every bite.
Pro Tips for Perfect Roll-Ups
For clean slices and tightly rolled pinwheels, always chill the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes before cutting. This step firms up the cheese and helps everything stay together when slicing.
If you’re using sauerkraut from a jar or bag, drain it thoroughly. Then press it between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This keeps your wraps from turning soggy, especially if you’re storing them in the fridge.
Warm the tortillas briefly before rolling to make them soft and flexible. A quick 10 seconds in the microwave or a few seconds in a hot pan works well.
Variations to Keep Things Interesting
While turkey and Swiss are the classic combo for a Rachel-inspired roll-up, feel free to customize. Swap turkey for pastrami or shredded chicken. Use provolone or mozzarella instead of Swiss for a milder flavor.
You can also add thin-sliced dill pickles for crunch or a little shredded cabbage for texture. For heat, try a smear of homemade spicy harissa mayo inside the wrap.
For a vegetarian twist, layer sauerkraut with roasted mushrooms and cheese in a tortilla, then pan-fry or air fry until golden.
How to Store and Reheat Roll-Ups
Store prepared, unsliced tortilla roll-ups in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to three days. If you’ve already sliced them, place the pinwheels in an airtight container and line it with paper towels to absorb moisture.
Low-carb turkey wraps can also be made ahead. Store them in a sealed container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
To reheat, use a skillet or air fryer rather than the microwave to preserve texture. If reheating cold pinwheels, pan-fry them gently until the cheese melts and edges crisp up.
You Might Also Like
If you loved this recipe, here are a few more ways to explore gut-friendly snacking:
- Lemon Raspberry Frozen Yogurt Bites – A cool, probiotic-rich snack perfect for hot days or dessert cravings.
- Strawberry Greek Yogurt Chocolate Bark – Sweet, crunchy, and full of gut-friendly benefits thanks to Greek yogurt.
- Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Treat – A creamy, antioxidant-packed option that combines probiotics and fiber.
- No Bake Dessert Cups Ideas – Easy-to-make treats that support digestion and satisfy sweet cravings.
Disclaimer:
This recipe is intended for general informational purposes only and reflects my personal approach to home cooking. Always check ingredient labels for allergens or dietary restrictions, especially if you’re preparing food for others. For more guidance on food safety and dietary considerations, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s official food safety site.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Roll-Ups with Sauerkraut
Can you put sauerkraut on a turkey sandwich?
Yes, absolutely. Sauerkraut adds a tangy, crunchy contrast to savory turkey, which is why it’s a key ingredient in the Rachel sandwich. In these roll-ups, it balances the richness of the cheese and dressing. Make sure to drain it well so your sandwich or wrap doesn’t get soggy.
Are turkey roll-ups healthy?
They can be. If you’re using lean turkey breast, low-sugar dressing, and a whole wheat or low-carb tortilla, they’re a great source of protein and fiber. For an even lighter version, skip the tortilla and use turkey slices as the wrap. This makes the recipe keto-friendly and gluten-free.
What goes with sauerkraut besides pork?
Sauerkraut is more versatile than most people think. It goes well with turkey, chicken, mushrooms, potatoes, and even plant-based sausages. In this recipe, turkey roll-ups with sauerkraut offer a lighter, zesty alternative to heavier pork-based dishes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. For pinwheels, it’s best to assemble and wrap the roll-ups in plastic, then chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Slice them just before serving. Low-carb turkey roll-ups can also be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge.
Can I freeze turkey roll-ups?
Freezing isn’t recommended for the cold appetizer version. The texture of the sauerkraut and cheese can become watery once thawed. However, if you’re making the pan-fried version, you can freeze cooked roll-ups, then reheat them in an air fryer or skillet.
What’s the best dressing for a Rachel roll-up?
Russian dressing is the classic choice with a bit of spice, while Thousand Island offers a slightly sweeter flavor. Both work well. You can also try a Greek yogurt ranch spread if you want something lighter.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The low-carb version using turkey slices instead of tortillas is naturally gluten-free. For the pinwheel style, use gluten-free tortillas to keep the whole recipe wheat-free. Always double-check your dressing label to ensure no gluten-containing additives are used.
