The Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe is a delightful comfort food classic that brings together the smoky, peppery goodness of thinly sliced pastrami with tangy sauerkraut and creamy Swiss cheese, all nestled between perfectly toasted rye bread slathered with buttery Thousand Island dressing. This sandwich is an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that melts in your mouth and satisfies cravings like no other. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers that warm, savory hug you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Every component is straightforward but crucial in delivering that classic deli-style taste everyone loves.
- Sauerkraut: Drained and patted dry to keep the sandwich juicy without sogginess, adding a tangy crunch.
- Pastrami: Thinly sliced for tender, flavorful meat that’s the star of the sandwich.
- Rye Bread: Provides a robust, slightly tangy foundation with a firm texture perfect for grilling.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened for easy spreading, it helps create a crispy, golden crust on the bread.
- Thousand Island Dressing: Adds creamy, sweet, and tangy notes that balance the smoky meat and sharp cheese.
- Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and contributes a mild nuttiness that ties all the flavors together.
How to Make Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Drain the Sauerkraut
Start by ensuring your sauerkraut is as dry as possible to prevent your sandwich from becoming soggy. Use a fine mesh strainer or layer paper towels to press out excess moisture. This step is key to keeping every bite crisp and full of flavor without any unwelcome watery mess.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Butter one side of each slice of rye bread generously for that golden crust we all adore. Then, flip the slices over and spread a tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing on the other side of each slice. This luscious layer will seep into the bread as the sandwich grills, infusing it with creamy, tangy goodness.
Step 3: Layer the Sandwich
On half of the bread slices, place a slice of Swiss cheese over the Thousand Island dressing first. Then pile on your thinly sliced pastrami and layer with your now perfectly drained sauerkraut. Top with another slice of cheese and seal the sandwich with the remaining bread slices, dressing side down. This construction ensures balanced flavors and a gooey cheese center.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and gently place your assembled sandwiches in it. Grill each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until the bread is beautifully golden brown and crispy while the cheese melts to creamy perfection. Be sure to flip carefully using a spatula to keep everything intact.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once grilled, remove the sandwiches from the pan and serve them hot. This sandwich is best enjoyed right away to appreciate the delightful contrast of melted cheese, savory pastrami, and crispy bread all in one satisfying bite.
How to Serve Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe by adding a few fresh garnishes like crunchy dill pickles or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. These little touches add a pop of brightness and crunchy texture that complement the rich sandwich beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy kettle-cooked potato chips or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pair wonderfully with this sandwich. If you want to stick with tradition, a bowl of hot matzo ball soup or creamy coleslaw also make for perfect companions that keep the deli vibe alive.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe by slicing it diagonally and stacking slices slightly fanned out on a wooden board. Add a vintage deli jar of mustard or extra Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping and a small dish of sauerkraut as a colorful garnish. Serving it with a rustic beer mug or a chilled soda completes an authentic experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly to keep the bread from drying out. The sandwich will stay good for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed freshly made.
Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for this sandwich since the bread and sauerkraut can lose texture and moisture, but if needed, wrap sandwiches well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best reheating results, place your sandwich on a skillet over low heat with a lid to help melt the cheese evenly. Flip occasionally to crisp both sides without burning. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it tends to make rye bread leathery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While rye bread is traditional and adds a great flavor, you can substitute with sourdough or pumpernickel if you prefer. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients and toast well.
What can I use instead of Thousand Island dressing?
Russian dressing is a fantastic substitute that has a similar tangy and slightly sweet profile. Some people also enjoy a spicy mustard or even a creamy horseradish sauce for a little extra kick.
Is pastrami the same as corned beef?
They are related but different. Pastrami is usually smoked and seasoned with a peppery crust, giving it a robust flavor, while corned beef is cured with a salt brine and typically milder. This makes pastrami ideal for this hot sandwich.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, you could replace pastrami with thick slices of smoked tempeh or marinated grilled portobello mushrooms for a smoky, savory bite. Keep the other ingredients the same for maximum flavor.
How spicy is the Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe?
This sandwich isn’t inherently spicy but has a bold, peppery flavor from the pastrami and a tangy zing from sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing. You can add sliced jalapeños or spicy mustard if you’d like to give it a little heat.
Final Thoughts
Making this Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe is like inviting the heart of a New York deli right into your kitchen. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and melty comfort that feels incredibly satisfying and special. Once you try this, it’s sure to become one of your go-to sandwiches for easy, flavorful meals anytime.
Print
Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Hot Pastrami Sandwich combines tender, thinly sliced pastrami with tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing on toasted rye bread. The sandwich is buttered and grilled on a skillet until the bread is perfectly golden and the cheese melts into a delicious, savory delight. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Sandwich Ingredients
- 1 cup sauerkraut (drained and patted dry)
- 1 pound pastrami (thinly sliced)
- 8 slices rye bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup Thousand Island dressing (or Russian dressing)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Drain the Sauerkraut: Add the sauerkraut to a fine mesh strainer and press with a paper towel to remove excess liquid. If a strainer is unavailable, use multiple layers of paper towels to squeeze out moisture carefully. Set aside once drained to prevent soggy sandwiches.
- Prepare the Bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each rye bread slice. Flip the bread and spread one tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing on the other side of each slice for flavor and moisture balance.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: On the dressing-coated side of half the bread slices, add a slice of Swiss cheese followed by a generous layer of sliced pastrami and drained sauerkraut. Top these with the second half of the bread slices, each also spread with dressing and a slice of Swiss cheese, creating a delicious layered sandwich.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a skillet or griddle pan on medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side. Flip carefully using a spatula and continue grilling for another 3-4 minutes until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese has melted perfectly.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet once cooked and serve hot to enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth flavors and satisfying crisp texture of the toasted bread combined with savory fillings.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the sauerkraut to avoid soggy sandwiches.
- Use softened butter for easy spreading and even grilling.
- Use a good quality rye bread for authentic taste and texture.
- You can substitute Thousand Island dressing with Russian dressing depending on preference.
- Serve with pickles or a side of chips for a classic deli experience.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the heat and thickness of your skillet.
