If you’ve ever had a pastrami sandwich from a New York deli, you know how rich, savory, and satisfying it can be. But what if you could make this mouthwatering classic right in your own kitchen? The good news is, you can, and it’s easier than you think!
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to make a pastrami sandwich at home using simple ingredients and a few easy steps. Whether you’re craving that classic deli sandwich, looking for a filling lunch idea, or planning a quick dinner, this homemade pastrami sandwich will hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Pastrami Sandwich
- Quick and easy to make
- Tastes just like a deli sandwich
- Made with everyday ingredients
- Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a party platter
- Customizable with your favorite bread, cheese, and sauces
Ingredients You’ll Need For Pastrami Sandwich
To make the best pastrami sandwich recipe, gather these simple ingredients:
- 6 to 8 oz sliced pastrami (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 slices of rye bread (or your favorite sandwich bread)
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese (or provolone)
- 1–2 tablespoons of yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the bread)
- Optional: Pickles, coleslaw, sauerkraut, caramelized onions
How to Make a Pastrami Sandwich at Home – Step by Step
Step 1: Warm the Pastrami
You can enjoy pastrami cold, but warming it makes it even more flavorful. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced pastrami and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through. You don’t need oil—just heat gently and stir.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of water and cover the pan with a lid to steam the pastrami and keep it moist.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Butter one side of each bread slice. Place them butter-side down on a hot pan or griddle to toast until golden and crispy. Toasting adds texture and helps the sandwich hold together better.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Heat
While the bread is still on the pan, add a slice of Swiss cheese on each slice so it melts slightly. This turns your sandwich into a pastrami and cheese sandwich, gooey, melty, and irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Remove the bread from the pan. Spread mustard on one slice (and mayo if using). Layer on the hot pastrami. You can also add:
- Pickles for crunch
- Coleslaw or sauerkraut for a tangy twist
- Caramelized onions for extra flavor
Top it with the second slice of bread and press gently.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the sandwich in half and serve with chips, pickles, or a side salad. Now you know how to make a pastrami sandwich at home that rivals any deli version!
Variations You Can Try
🧀 Pastrami Melt
Use provolone or cheddar and grill the whole sandwich like a panini. Press it for a crispy crust.
🥪 Pastrami on Rye
Use traditional rye bread and spicy brown mustard for a New York-style sandwich.
🥬 Healthy Version
Use whole grain bread, skip the mayo, and add fresh lettuce and tomato.
🌯 Pastrami Wrap
Use a tortilla instead of bread and turn it into a pastrami wrap, great for lunchboxes!
Tips for the Best Homemade Pastrami Sandwich
- Buy good-quality pastrami from the deli counter or butcher.
- Toast the bread to avoid sogginess.
- Balance the flavors with something tangy like mustard, pickles, or slaw.
- Don’t overload, too many ingredients can make the sandwich messy and hard to eat.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a pastrami sandwich at home, you’ll never need to wait in line at a deli again. This easy sandwich recipe delivers bold flavors, melty cheese, and a satisfying bite, all from your own kitchen.
Whether you’re using it for a lunch upgrade, weekend treat, or quick weeknight meal, this homemade pastrami sandwich is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and bring the deli home!
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use any bread for a pastrami sandwich?
A: Yes! Rye bread is traditional, but you can use sourdough, whole wheat, ciabatta, or any bread you like.
Q2: Do I need to cook the pastrami?
A: No, pastrami is already cooked. But gently warming it brings out the flavors and makes it more enjoyable.
Q3: What cheese goes best with pastrami?
A: Swiss cheese is the most popular choice, but provolone, cheddar, or mozzarella also taste great.
Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: You can prep the ingredients in advance, but for the best texture and taste, assemble and toast it fresh before eating.
Q5: Is pastrami the same as corned beef?
A: No. While both are cured meats, pastrami is usually smoked and spiced, while corned beef is boiled.