Pastrami Rueben Sandwich

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Pastrami Rueben Sandwich

The Pastrami Reuben sandwich is a variation of the classic Reuben sandwich, which traditionally consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian (or Thousand Island) dressing on rye bread, grilled to perfection.

The original Reuben sandwich is believed to have been created in the early 20th century, with two competing origin stories:

  1. Reuben Kulakofsky, Omaha, Nebraska– A Lithuanian-born grocer who, in the 1920s, reportedly invented the sandwich during a late-night poker game at the Blackstone Hotel.
  2. Arnold Reuben, New York City– A deli owner who, in the 1910s, was said to have created a similar sandwich for an actress visiting his restaurant.

The Pastrami Reuben swaps out corned beef for pastrami, which has a more peppery, smoky flavor. This variation is most commonly associated with Jewish delis in New York City, particularly Katz’s Delicatessen and other classic institutions. While corned beef is traditionally used in a Reuben, pastrami offers a richer, spicier taste, making it a popular alternative.

Ingredients (Makes 2 Sandwiches)

  • 4 slices rye bread (I like Tuscan Pane Rustico)
  • 4 tbsp butter (softened)
  • 6 oz pastrami (thinly sliced)
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • ½ cup sauerkraut (drained)
  • 4 tbsp Russian dressing (or Thousand Island)

Instructions

  1. Preheat a skillet or griddleover medium heat.
  2. Butter one side of each bread slice
  3. Assemble the sandwich:On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer Swiss cheese, pastrami, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. Top with the remaining slices of bread (buttered side out).
  4. Grill the sandwich:Place it on the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down slightly, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  5. Serve immediatelywith pickles and chips on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Pastrami Reuben Sandwich!

Thank you for trying this recipe. Please let me know how you liked it. 

If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a look at other recipes on my fast, simple and good sandwich page.

Pastrami Rueben Sandwich