Crispy Pastrami & Dill Pickle Melt
Indulge in a delicious twist on the classic deli sandwich with our Crispy Pastrami & Dill Pickle Melt. This recipe combines the rich flavors of savory pastrami and creamy Swiss cheese with tangy dill pickles, all enveloped in perfectly toasted rye bread. Each sandwich is pan-fried to a golden crisp, creating a satisfying crunch that complements the savory filling. Ideal for a delightful lunch or a quick snack, these sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser that's sure to elevate your meal time experience. Enjoy with a side of potato chips or a simple salad for a complete lunch.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mayonnaise
1/3 cup (none)
Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons (none)
Rye bread
8 slices (none)
Butter
to taste (for spreading)
Swiss cheese
8 slices (none)
Dill pickles
4, sliced (none)
Pastrami
16 slices (none)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, stirring until smooth and well blended.
2
Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. On the opposite side, spread the mayonnaise mixture.
3
Layer 4 slices of bread with Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and pastrami. Top with the remaining slices of bread, ensuring the buttered sides are facing outward.
4
Heat a large non-stick frying pan over low heat.
5
Arrange the sandwiches in the pan, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Repeat with remaining sandwiches if needed.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Crispy Pastrami & Dill Pickle Melt?
It is a savory deli-style sandwich featuring pastrami, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles on rye bread, pan-fried until golden and crispy.
What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
Rye bread is recommended for its classic flavor that pairs perfectly with pastrami and pickles.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
Yes, you can use other melting cheeses like Provolone, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack if you prefer.
How many sandwiches does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 full sandwiches.
What type of mustard should I use?
The recipe calls for Dijon mustard, which provides a sophisticated tang that balances the richness of the meat.
How do I make the sandwich crispy?
Butter the outside of the rye bread and cook the sandwich over low heat in a non-stick frying pan.
How long does it take to cook each side?
It typically takes 3 to 4 minutes per side to reach a golden brown color and melt the cheese.
Can I use a panini press?
Yes, a panini press or sandwich maker can be used instead of a frying pan.
Is the pastrami cooked before adding it to the sandwich?
The pastrami is usually pre-cooked deli meat; it heats through while the sandwich is being toasted in the pan.
What is the sauce made of?
The sauce is a simple but delicious blend of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
What sides go well with this melt?
Potato chips, a side salad, or a cup of tomato soup make excellent accompaniments.
Can I add other ingredients like sauerkraut?
Absolutely! Adding sauerkraut would turn this into a variation of a Reuben sandwich.
Should the pickles be whole or sliced?
The recipe recommends using 4 dill pickles that have been sliced for easy layering.
What heat setting is best for the frying pan?
Low heat is best to ensure the bread doesn't burn before the cheese is fully melted.
Can I use turkey pastrami instead?
Yes, turkey pastrami is a great leaner alternative that still offers excellent flavor.
Do I put butter on both sides of the bread?
Butter goes on the outside of the bread for crisping, while the mayo-mustard mix goes on the inside.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch or dinner?
It is perfect for a hearty lunch, a quick snack, or even a casual dinner.
Can I make these sandwiches in advance?
They are best served immediately for maximum crispiness, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time.
How many slices of pastrami go in each sandwich?
The recipe uses 16 slices total, which averages to 4 slices of pastrami per sandwich.
Can I use sourdough bread instead of rye?
Yes, sourdough is a sturdy and flavorful alternative if you do not like rye bread.
What if I don't have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even honey mustard for a sweeter profile.
Does the recipe require specific pickle types?
Dill pickles are suggested for their tangy and salty profile which cuts through the fat of the cheese and meat.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used for spreading on the bread, though butter typically provides a richer flavor.
How many slices of cheese are used per sandwich?
The recipe uses 8 slices total for 4 sandwiches, so 2 slices per sandwich.
What kind of pan should I use?
A large non-stick frying pan is recommended to prevent sticking and allow for even browning.
Is there a way to make this spicy?
You can add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture for a spicy kick.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Ensure your pan is preheated and avoid using too much mayonnaise near the edges of the bread.
Can I bake these in the oven for a crowd?
Yes, you can assemble them and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit on a sheet pan, flipping halfway through.
Are there any suggested toppings?
Fresh arugula or thinly sliced red onions can be added inside for extra texture and flavor.
What makes this a 'melt' rather than just a sandwich?
The term 'melt' refers to the fact that the sandwich is heated until the cheese is completely melted and gooey.