After all that time curing, seasoning, smoking, and steaming your homemade pastrami, the final step is arguably the most important: turning it into an unforgettable pastrami sandwich.
Pastrami is bold, salty, peppery, and rich — which means it pairs beautifully with the right bread, spreads, and toppings. Whether you want something classic or a little more creative, these pastrami sandwich ideas are designed to showcase all that hard work.
This post is meant to give you multiple options so you can enjoy your homemade pastrami more than one way.
Why Pastrami Makes the Ultimate Sandwich Meat
Pastrami has:
- Deep, cured flavor
- Tender but sliceable texture
- A spice-forward crust that stands up to sauces
- Enough richness to feel indulgent without needing much else
That makes it perfect for both simple sandwiches and more layered builds.
1. Classic Hot Pastrami on Rye
This is the gold standard.
How to build it:
- Warm sliced pastrami (steamed if possible)
- Rye bread, lightly toasted
- Yellow or spicy brown mustard
That’s it. No extras needed. Let the meat shine.
2. Pastrami Reuben-Style Sandwich
If you love bold flavors, this one delivers.
How to build it:
- Pastrami
- Swiss cheese
- Sauerkraut
- Rye bread
- Russian or Thousand Island dressing
Grill until the bread is crisp and the cheese melts.
3. Pastrami & Swiss Deli Melt
This one is comfort food all the way.
How to build it:
- Pastrami
- Swiss or provolone cheese
- Caramelized onions
- Rye or sourdough bread
Griddle low and slow so everything melts together.
4. Pastrami Breakfast Sandwich
Perfect if you have leftovers and want something different.
How to build it:
- Pastrami
- Fried egg
- Cheese (American or Swiss)
- Toasted bread or bagel
Rich, savory, and great with coffee.
5. Simple Cold Pastrami Sandwich
Yes — pastrami works cold too.
How to build it:
- Thinly sliced pastrami
- Mustard or mayo
- Lettuce and tomato (optional)
- Soft sandwich bread or roll
This is great for lunches or quick meals.
FAQs
Should pastrami be heated before making sandwiches?
Traditionally, yes — steaming or gently warming brings out the best texture and flavor.
What bread works best with pastrami?
Rye is classic, but sourdough, hoagie rolls, and even bagels work well.
How long does homemade pastrami last?
Up to 7 days refrigerated, or freeze sliced portions for longer storage.
Want the Full Homemade Pastrami Recipe?
If you haven’t already, make sure to check out the full homemade pastrami from scratch guide, where I walk through curing, seasoning, smoking, and steaming step by step.
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