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
Scale
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.
