Description
A classic and savory Hot Pastrami Sandwich featuring thinly sliced pastrami, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy thousand island dressing, all grilled to golden perfection on buttery rye bread. This sandwich is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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 Sauerkraut: Place the sauerkraut in a fine mesh strainer and press it down with a paper towel to remove excess liquid. If a mesh strainer is unavailable, use stacked paper towels both under and over the sauerkraut to squeeze out moisture. Set aside the drained sauerkraut.
- Prepare Bread: Spread softened butter on one side of each rye bread slice. Flip each slice over and spread 1 tablespoon of thousand island dressing evenly on that side.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Place a slice of Swiss cheese atop the dressing on all bread slices. On half of the slices, layer sliced pastrami and the drained sauerkraut. Top these with the remaining bread slices, cheese side down, to form sandwiches.
- Grill Sandwiches: Heat a skillet or griddle pan over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and grill for 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown. Flip carefully and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from the pan and serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Notes
- Draining the sauerkraut well prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy.
- Use rye bread for authenticity; feel free to substitute with pumpernickel or sourdough if preferred.
- Butter can be replaced with mayonnaise for a different flavor profile.
- Russian dressing may be used instead of thousand island for a tangier taste.
- For a crispier crust, press the sandwiches slightly while grilling.
