18 Savory Pastrami Recipes with Bold Flavors

Carmen Eldridge

April 3, 2025

Get ready to take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure with 18 savory pastrami recipes that pack a punch! Pastrami, with its rich, meaty flavor and tender texture, is the perfect ingredient to add boldness and excitement to any meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic sandwich, a satisfying breakfast dish, or a decadent dessert, we’ve got you covered. From traditional combinations like pastrami and Swiss cheese on rye bread to more innovative pairings like pastrami-wrapped asparagus spears, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this iconic cured meat. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and experience the unforgettable flavor of pastrami!

Classic New York Pastrami Sandwich

Classic New York Pastrami Sandwich
Classic New York Pastrami Sandwich Recipe

A classic sandwich that never goes out of style, this pastrami sandwich is a staple of New York deli culture. Sliced thin and piled high with mustard, pickles, and rye bread, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1/4 pound pastrami (preferably corned beef), thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
– 2 slices rye bread
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill pickle
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Lay the slices of rye bread on a clean surface.
2. Arrange the pastrami slices on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Spread yellow mustard evenly over the pastrami.
4. Sprinkle chopped pickle on top of the mustard.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)

Pastrami and Swiss Cheese Panini

Pastrami and Swiss Cheese Panini
Savor the perfect blend of savory pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, and crispy bread with this easy-to-make panini recipe.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 2 oz pastrami, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for grilling

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one side of each bread slice with Dijon mustard.
3. Top two slices of bread with pastrami, Swiss cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the remaining two slices of bread, mustard-side down, on top of the filling.
5. Grill or press for 3-4 minutes or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes

Pastrami Hash with Fried Eggs

Pastrami Hash with Fried Eggs
Get ready for a savory breakfast twist! Pastrami hash and crispy fried eggs come together in perfect harmony.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked pastrami, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter or heat oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced pastrami, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Crack in eggs and scramble them into the pastrami mixture.
6. Cook until eggs are set, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Pastrami Reuben with Sauerkraut and Thousand Island Dressing

Pastrami Reuben with Sauerkraut and Thousand Island Dressing
Classic Pastrami Reuben with Sauerkraut and Thousand Island Dressing Recipe

Get ready to sink your teeth into a mouthwatering sandwich that combines the flavors of pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on rye bread.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of rye bread
– 8 oz pastrami, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the press or grill.
4. Top with pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing.
5. Place another slice of bread, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes

Pastrami-Wrapped Asparagus Spears

Pastrami-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your asparagus game with this unexpected twist – wrapping tender spears with savory pastrami. The result is a harmonious blend of earthy, slightly sweet asparagus and the rich, meaty flavor of pastrami.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of pastrami (thick-cut)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Trim the ends of the asparagus spears, leaving them about 6-7 inches long.
4. Wrap each spear with 1-2 slices of pastrami, leaving a small portion of the spear exposed at the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the wrapped asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the pastrami is crispy.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Pastrami and Caramelized Onion Pizza

Pastrami and Caramelized Onion Pizza
Experience the perfect combination of savory pastrami and sweet caramelized onions on a crispy pizza crust. This unique flavor combination is sure to become your new favorite!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup pastrami, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Arrange the pastrami slices on one half of the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with caramelized onions, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Smoked Pastrami Sliders with Spicy Mustard

Smoked Pastrami Sliders with Spicy Mustard
A twist on the classic pastrami sandwich, these sliders pack a punch with smoky flavor and spicy kick. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb smoked pastrami, thinly sliced
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup spicy mustard (such as Dijon with hot sauce)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter the buns on the top side only.
3. Place 2-3 slices of pastrami onto each bun bottom.
4. Spread 1/2 tsp of spicy mustard on top of the pastrami.
5. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired.
6. Top with the buttered bun top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the buns are toasted.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Pastrami-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Pastrami-Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the savory flavors of pastrami with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a unique and delicious twist on classic comfort food.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked pastrami, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add pastrami, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the pastrami mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Pastrami and Egg Breakfast Burrito

Pastrami and Egg Breakfast Burrito
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic breakfast burrito, featuring crispy pastrami and scrambled eggs.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pastrami, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 whole wheat tortilla (10-12 inches)
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in scrambled egg mixture and cook until set, breaking up any large curds with a spatula.
4. Stir in pastrami, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burrito by filling the center with egg mixture, followed by cheese (if using). Fold bottom up, then sides over, finishing with a top fold.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Pastrami Mac and Cheese with Gruyère

Pastrami Mac and Cheese with Gruyère
Pastrami Mac and Cheese with Gruyère: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a boost of flavor from the addition of pastrami and nutty Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup diced pastrami
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted. Add pastrami and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.

Pastrami and Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Pastrami and Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines the rich flavor of pastrami with creamy avocado and tangy lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced pastrami
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine pastrami, avocado, salt, and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Pastrami and Cheddar Stuffed Pretzel Bites

Pastrami and Cheddar Stuffed Pretzel Bites
Elevate your snack game with these savory pretzel bites filled with pastrami and cheddar cheese. Perfect for parties, sporting events, or just a quick indulgence.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of pretzel dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pastrami, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt, for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out pretzel dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
3. Place a small spoonful of chopped pastrami and grated cheddar cheese in the center of each square. Fold dough over filling to form a triangle, pressing edges together to seal.
4. Place stuffed pretzels on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
5. Sprinkle with salt and caraway seeds (if using). Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pastrami and Kimchi Grilled Cheese

Pastrami and Kimchi Grilled Cheese
A creative twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, this recipe combines the savory flavor of pastrami with the spicy kick of kimchi. The result is a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of pastrami, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup of kimchi, chopped
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with pastrami, kimchi, and cheddar cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes

Pastrami and Potato Pierogi

Pastrami and Potato Pierogi
Elevate your pierogi game with this savory recipe that combines the flavors of pastrami, potatoes, and fresh dill.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound cooked pastrami, diced
+ 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
+ 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1/4 cup each).
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Place a spoonful of pastrami and potato filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Brush the tops with beaten egg for an egg wash.
8. Fry pierogi in hot oil (about 350°F) for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pastrami and Pickle Deviled Eggs

Pastrami and Pickle Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of pastrami and pickle, creating a unique and flavorful snack perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients:

– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 cup chopped pastrami
– 1/4 cup finely chopped pickle
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped pastrami and pickle.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
7. Sprinkle paprika on top for garnish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled snack.

Pastrami and Swiss Cheese Quiche

Pastrami and Swiss Cheese Quiche
This quiche combines the savory flavors of pastrami and Swiss cheese, perfect for a brunch or light dinner. The smoky, meaty flavor of pastrami pairs surprisingly well with the creamy cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and chives)
– 4 slices of pastrami, diced
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the mixed greens, pastrami, Swiss cheese, and Parmesan cheese in the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Pastrami and Caramelized Apple Flatbread

Pastrami and Caramelized Apple Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory combination of thinly sliced pastrami, caramelized apples, and crispy flatbread.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb flatbread (such as naan or pita)
– 6 oz pastrami, thinly sliced
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced into wedges
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add apple slices and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, place flatbread on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until crispy.
4. Spread remaining 1 tbsp of butter on the baked flatbread.
5. Top flatbread with pastrami slices, followed by caramelized apple wedges.
6. Season with cinnamon, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Pastrami and Roasted Garlic Dip

Pastrami and Roasted Garlic Dip
A creamy and savory dip that combines the rich flavors of pastrami with roasted garlic, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves roasted garlic (see note), minced
– 4 ounces pastrami, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the garlic: Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender. Let cool, then mince.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley until smooth.
4. Add the roasted garlic and chopped pastrami to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including roasting time)

Summary

Get ready to elevate your pastrami game with these 18 savory recipes that pack bold flavors! From classic sandwiches to creative twists, there’s something for everyone. Try making a New York-style pastrami sandwich, or go gourmet with pastrami-stuffed bell peppers and caramelized onion pizza. For breakfast, start the day with pastrami-wrapped asparagus spears and fried eggs. And don’t forget about sweet treats like pastrami-caramel apple flatbread! With so many options, you’ll never get bored with pastrami again.

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