Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls 🥬

These Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are a delightful and hearty option for anyone who loves savory, tangy, and comforting flavors in one bite. Whether you’re craving something filling for lunch, need a quick weeknight dinner, or are preparing a spread for a casual get-together, these rolls are an easy yet satisfying choice. The combination of warm, melt-in-your-mouth Swiss cheese, tender pastrami, and zesty sauerkraut, all wrapped in a toasted sandwich roll, brings together a perfect balance of savory and tangy elements. Add a touch of mustard or Thousand Island dressing for a flavorful kick, and you have a dish that’s both easy to make and packed with irresistible flavor.

This recipe is inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich but in a more portable, individual roll form, making it a perfect option for a crowd or for anyone who enjoys their food easy to grab and go. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it to your preferences, adding more mustard for extra spice or a layer of pickles for a crunchy texture that complements the richness of the pastrami.

Ingredients:

• 6 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns – Choose soft, fresh rolls or buns that can hold the hearty fillings without falling apart.
• 1 lb pastrami, thinly sliced – Pastrami is the star here, so use high-quality, tender pastrami for the best flavor. If you prefer a different type of meat, corned beef or roast beef can also be great substitutes.
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained – Sauerkraut adds a tangy, crunchy element that contrasts beautifully with the savory pastrami. You can adjust the amount to your liking depending on how much tang you want.
• 6 slices Swiss cheese – Swiss cheese provides a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that melts beautifully. If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère, provolone, or even cheddar could work well.
• ¼ cup spicy mustard or Thousand Island dressing (optional) – For an extra layer of flavor, spicy mustard adds a zesty kick, while Thousand Island dressing offers a creamier, sweeter touch. You can use one or both depending on your preference.
• 2 tbsp butter, melted – Brushing the rolls with melted butter before baking gives them a rich, golden finish and ensures they toast beautifully in the oven.

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze and prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan.
2. Prepare the sandwich rolls: Slice the sandwich rolls or hoagie buns in half lengthwise. Be sure to leave one edge intact, creating a “hinge” so the rolls stay connected. This makes it easier to eat and keeps all the delicious fillings in place.
3. Add the condiments: If using, spread a thin layer of spicy mustard or Thousand Island dressing on the inside of each roll. This step is optional but adds a burst of flavor that complements the pastrami and sauerkraut. You can use both condiments if you like a more complex flavor profile, or stick to your favorite.
4. Layer the fillings: Start by adding a generous portion of thinly sliced pastrami into each roll. The pastrami is the star of the sandwich, so don’t skimp on it! Follow with a spoonful of sauerkraut, spreading it evenly. The sauerkraut adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the pastrami and the creaminess of the cheese. Then, place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. If you like your cheese extra gooey, feel free to add more cheese!
5. Brush with butter: Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter. This will give the rolls a golden, crispy finish when baked and help enhance the flavors. The butter also ensures that the sandwich rolls toast beautifully in the oven, turning them into the perfect base for these hearty fillings.
6. Bake the rolls: Place the filled rolls on the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The goal is to melt the cheese, warm up the pastrami, and toast the rolls to a perfect golden brown. Check halfway through and make sure the cheese is melting nicely. If you like your cheese extra bubbly and browned, leave them in a few extra minutes.
7. Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve these warm, fresh out of the oven, and enjoy them as a quick lunch, dinner, or snack. The combination of the tangy sauerkraut, the savory pastrami, the creamy melted Swiss cheese, and the crispy roll makes for a truly comforting meal.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cooking Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 20 mins

Kcal: 380 per serving

Servings: 6

Tips for the Perfect Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls:

• Customize the cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add an extra slice or even mix different types of cheese like Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone to create a custom cheese blend that suits your taste.
• Add more veggies: For extra crunch and freshness, you can add some pickles, onions, or bell peppers to the rolls. They pair wonderfully with the rich, savory flavors of the pastrami and sauerkraut.
• Adjust the sauce: If you’re using mustard, try Dijon or spicy brown mustard for a sharper flavor. Thousand Island dressing adds creaminess and sweetness, but you can also use Russian dressing for a similar flavor with a slightly different twist.
• Double the recipe: These rolls are so good that you’ll want to make extra. They’re easy to make in large batches, so feel free to double the ingredients if you’re hosting a party or need more servings.

Serving Suggestions:

These Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls make for a great standalone meal, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, consider pairing them with the following sides:

• Potato Salad: A creamy, tangy potato salad with a touch of mustard or dill pairs perfectly with the rich, savory rolls.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw with a bit of sweetness will balance the salty and savory flavors of the pastrami rolls.
• Sweet Potato Fries: For a crispy and slightly sweet contrast, serve these rolls with baked sweet potato fries or regular fries.
• Pickles: A side of dill or bread-and-butter pickles adds a nice contrast to the richness of the sandwich.

Storage:

These Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, you can wrap them in foil and place them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, pressing them slightly to get a nice, toasted finish.

These rolls are the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and indulgent flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick weeknight dinner, serving them for a casual gathering, or simply indulging in a delicious sandwich, these Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls will become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy eating!