Pastrami Sandwich

Imagine the aroma of thinly sliced pastrami mingling with tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese, held together by perfectly toasted rye bread.

This pastrami sandwich is a breeze to whip up, offering a cozy, indulgent escape right in your kitchen.

As the cheese melts into the savory pastrami, each bite promises a delightful harmony of flavors.

Let’s bring this delicious creation to life and savor every moment.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Skillet or griddle
• 1 Knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Spatula

Ingredients

• 4 slices Rye bread
• 6 ounces Pastrami, thinly sliced
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 2 tablespoons Mustard
• 2 tablespoons Butter, softened
• 1/2 cup Sauerkraut, drained

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time when preparing and cooking a pastrami sandwich, here’s a suggested timeline:

1. Reading the Recipe:
   • Allocate 3 minutes to read through the entire recipe and gather all necessary ingredients and equipment.
2. Preparation (10 minutes total):
   • Minute 1-2: Preheat the skillet or griddle over medium heat.
   • Minute 3-5: Spread mustard evenly on one side of each slice of rye bread.
   • Minute 6-7: Layer the pastrami evenly on top of the mustard-covered bread slices.
   • Minute 8: Add a layer of sauerkraut over the pastrami.
   • Minute 9: Place two slices of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut.
   • Minute 10: Top with the remaining slices of bread, mustard side down, and spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.
3. Cooking (5 minutes total):
   • Minute 11-13: Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet and grill the first side for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
   • Minute 14-15: Flip the sandwich and grill the other side for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
4. Serving:
   • Minute 16: Remove sandwiches from the skillet and serve immediately.

Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.

Recipe Instructions

Preheat the skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Spread mustard evenly on one side of each slice of rye bread.

Place two slices of bread, mustard side up, on the cutting board.

Layer the pastrami evenly on top of the mustard-covered bread slices.

Add a layer of sauerkraut over the pastrami.

Place two slices of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut.

Top with the remaining slices of bread, mustard side down.

Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.

Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet.

Grill each side for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Remove from the skillet and serve immediately.

Serving Tips

• Potato Chips: A classic pairing that adds a satisfying crunch to complement the soft texture of the sandwich.
• Pickles: Their tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the pastrami and cheese, enhancing the overall taste experience.
• Coleslaw: This creamy and invigorating side dish adds a nice contrast to the savory sandwich.
• Tomato Soup: A warm, comforting option that provides a delightful balance to the hearty sandwich.
• French Fries: A universally loved side that offers a crispy and flavorful addition to the meal.

Storage

To store leftover pastrami sandwiches, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Reheat on a skillet for best results.

Freezing

To freeze a pastrami sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Then, cover with aluminum foil.

Place in a freezer-safe bag.

Label the date.

Consume within 2 months for ideal freshness.

Reheating

To reheat a pastrami sandwich, use a skillet over medium heat.

Grill each side for 2-3 minutes until the bread is crisp and cheese melted.

Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Final Thoughts

The pastrami sandwich is a classic American lunch option that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

With layers of thinly sliced pastrami, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese sandwiched between slices of rye bread, it’s a delicious combination of textures and tastes.

The grilling process gives the bread a crispy exterior while melting the cheese to perfection.

Whether enjoyed with a side of pickles or on its own, this sandwich is sure to be a hit.

Adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences and enjoy a delightful meal in just a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Bread for This Sandwich?

You can definitely experiment with different breads. A crusty sourdough adds a tangy complexity, while a hearty multigrain offers a nutty, earthy profile. Each slice enhances textures and flavors, creating a unique sensory experience with every bite.

What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese in This Recipe?

You can substitute Swiss cheese with Gouda or provolone. Their creamy textures complement the other ingredients. Gouda’s nutty notes or provolone’s mild tanginess will enhance the flavor, creating a delightful sensory experience with each bite.

How Do I Make Homemade Sauerkraut?

To make homemade sauerkraut, thinly slice cabbage, massage it with salt, and pack it tightly in a jar. Let it ferment at room temperature for 1-4 weeks, tasting periodically. You’ll notice its tangy, crisp transformation.

Is It Possible to Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?

You can make it vegetarian by replacing pastrami with grilled portobello mushrooms. They offer a savory depth, and when paired with tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese, you’ll still enjoy that satisfying, umami-rich bite.

What Beverages Pair Well With a Pastrami Sandwich?

You’d enjoy pairing your meal with a crisp, cold lager, balancing the rich flavors. Try a classic cola for a sweet contrast, or choose an iced tea for a invigorating, slightly tannic touch that complements every bite.

Pastrami Sandwich

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Lunch

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Equipment

• 1 Skillet or griddle
• 1 Knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Spatula

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 4 slice Rye bread
• 6 ounce Pastrami thinly sliced
• 4 slice Swiss cheese
• 2 tablespoon Mustard
• 2 tablespoon Butter softened
• 1/2 cup Sauerkraut drained

Instructions

 

• Preheat the skillet or griddle over medium heat.
• Spread mustard evenly on one side of each slice of rye bread.
• Place two slices of bread, mustard side up, on the cutting board.
• Layer the pastrami evenly on top of the mustard-covered bread slices.
• Add a layer of sauerkraut over the pastrami.
• Place two slices of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut.
• Top with the remaining slices of bread, mustard side down.
• Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.
• Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet.
• Grill each side for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Remove from the skillet and serve immediately.

Notes

For a crispier sandwich, press down gently with the spatula while grilling. Feel free to add more or less mustard and sauerkraut according to your taste preference. If you don’t have a skillet, a panini press works well for this recipe. Enjoy your sandwich with a side of pickles for an extra tangy flavor!

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.