This Hot Pastrami Sandwich is a perfect tribute to the iconic New York deli classic. With layers of thinly sliced pastrami, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing, all nestled between slices of buttered rye bread, this sandwich delivers on flavor, texture, and nostalgia. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy a deli favorite right at home!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced pastrami

• 8 slices rye bread

• 8 slices Swiss cheese

• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained (or coleslaw)

• ¼ cup Russian dressing (or Thousand Island dressing)

• 2 tbsp butter, softened

• Dill pickle slices (for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat and Butter: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.

2. Layer and Grill: Place 4 slices of the bread, buttered side down, on the hot skillet. Top each slice with 2 slices of Swiss cheese.

3. Add Pastrami and Sauerkraut: Pile ¼ lb of pastrami on top of the cheese on each sandwich, then top with sauerkraut.

4. Assemble Sandwiches: Spread about 1 tbsp of Russian dressing on the non-buttered side of the remaining 4 slices of rye bread. Place them dressing side down on top of the sauerkraut to complete the sandwiches.

5. Cook: Grill the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is crispy and golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the sandwich is heated through.

6. Serve: Remove from the skillet, cut each sandwich diagonally, and serve immediately with dill pickle slices on the side.

Nutrients (per serving)

While the exact nutritional breakdown was not provided, based on typical ingredients, this sandwich likely has:

• Calories: 500-600 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 35-45g

• Protein: 30-35g

• Fat: 25-30g

• Saturated Fat: 8-10g

• Sodium: 1000-1200mg

• Fiber: 2-4g

The Pastrami: The Star of the Sandwich

At the heart of every Hot Pastrami Sandwich is the pastrami. This thinly sliced, seasoned meat is what gives the sandwich its signature flavor. Traditionally, pastrami is made from beef, which is brined, smoked, and then cooked, resulting in a tender, flavorful cut of meat. The smoky, slightly peppery taste of pastrami pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in the sandwich.

For the best results, use freshly sliced pastrami from the deli counter. Thin slices allow the meat to melt into the cheese and create the perfect bite. The pastrami is piled high on the sandwich, ensuring that each bite is full of savory goodness. Its richness balances well with the tangy, crunchy sauerkraut and the creamy dressing, making it the perfect star ingredient for this classic sandwich.

Swiss Cheese: Creamy and Melty

Swiss cheese is the traditional cheese used in a Hot Pastrami Sandwich, and for good reason. With its mild, slightly nutty flavor and excellent melting properties, Swiss cheese enhances the sandwich without overpowering the other flavors. As the sandwich grills, the Swiss cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey layer that perfectly complements the pastrami and sauerkraut.

When assembling the sandwich, be sure to add two slices of Swiss cheese to each sandwich. The cheese should melt over the pastrami and sauerkraut as the sandwich grills, creating a smooth, flavorful binder that holds all the ingredients together.

Sauerkraut: Tangy Crunch

Sauerkraut is the ideal accompaniment to pastrami, bringing a tangy, crunchy contrast to the richness of the meat and cheese. The sourness of the sauerkraut balances the smokiness of the pastrami, providing a refreshing bite that cuts through the heaviness of the other ingredients.

For the best results, drain the sauerkraut well before adding it to the sandwich to prevent excess moisture. The sauerkraut should be spread generously on top of the pastrami, ensuring that each bite includes that signature tang. Alternatively, you can substitute coleslaw for a slightly different flavor, but the tangy crunch of sauerkraut is a true classic in this sandwich.

Russian Dressing: Creamy and Tangy

Russian dressing, or Thousand Island dressing, adds a creamy, tangy element to the Hot Pastrami Sandwich. The smooth, slightly sweet dressing provides the perfect contrast to the richness of the pastrami and Swiss cheese, while the tangy notes tie the sandwich together. The dressing also helps to moisten the sandwich, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful without being too greasy.

Spread about 1 tablespoon of Russian dressing on the non-buttered side of the rye bread before assembling the sandwich. This will help the dressing to stay evenly distributed and prevent it from making the bread soggy. If you prefer a spicier dressing, feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce or add a dash of horseradish to taste.

Rye Bread: The Perfect Base

Rye bread is the traditional bread used for Hot Pastrami Sandwiches, and its slightly sour flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the pastrami and cheese. The bread also provides a sturdy base that holds up well to the fillings, ensuring that the sandwich doesn’t fall apart during grilling or eating.

To prepare the bread, butter one side of each slice, then place the buttered side down on the skillet. This will create a crispy, golden crust that adds an extra layer of texture to the sandwich. The buttery bread enhances the overall flavor and ensures that each bite is delicious and satisfying.

Grilling the Sandwich: A Crispy, Golden Exterior

Grilling is the final step in preparing the Hot Pastrami Sandwich. The sandwich should be cooked in a hot skillet or griddle to create a crispy, golden crust while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly. The buttered rye bread will toast up beautifully, providing a crunchy contrast to the tender pastrami and melted cheese inside.

Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Then, flip the sandwich and grill for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the sandwich is heated through. The result will be a sandwich with a crispy exterior and a gooey, melty interior that’s simply irresistible.

Serving the Sandwich: Classic with Pickles

Once the Hot Pastrami Sandwich is grilled to perfection, remove it from the skillet and cut it diagonally for a classic presentation. Serve the sandwich immediately while it’s still hot and the cheese is gooey. The sandwich can be served with dill pickle slices on the side, which provide a refreshing, tangy contrast to the richness of the pastrami and cheese.

The dill pickles are a perfect complement to the sandwich, adding crunch and acidity that balance out the savory elements of the sandwich. You can also serve the sandwich with a side of chips or fries for a more indulgent meal, but the sandwich itself is so flavorful that it stands up beautifully on its own.

Why This Sandwich is a Classic

The Hot Pastrami Sandwich is a perfect tribute to the classic New York deli sandwich. Its combination of flavors—savory pastrami, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Russian dressing—creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The crispy rye bread provides the perfect base for all of these ingredients, making every bite satisfying and full of flavor.

What makes this sandwich so beloved is its simplicity and ability to deliver big flavors in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, quick to grill, and a great way to enjoy a deli classic without leaving the comfort of your home. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty snack, this Hot Pastrami Sandwich is sure to be a hit every time.

Conclusion: A Delicious Deli Favorite at Home

The Hot Pastrami Sandwich is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. With its layers of smoky pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing, all nestled between slices of crispy rye bread, this sandwich is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple to make, yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect option for anyone craving a satisfying, flavorful meal.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a deli-inspired treat, whip up this Hot Pastrami Sandwich and enjoy the rich, savory goodness of one of New York’s most iconic sandwiches. Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or sharing it with friends, this sandwich will transport you to a bustling deli with every bite.