Description
Melted Cheese & Smoked Pastrami Sandwich
This Melted Cheese & Smoked Pastrami Sandwich is a game-changer! Warm, crispy bread, perfectly seasoned pastrami, and gooey melted cheese create a sandwich you won’t forget. Ideal for a cozy meal or a quick gourmet bite!
You’ll Need:
1 fresh baguette, sliced
½ lb smoked pastrami, thinly sliced
4 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
1 tbsp butter, melted
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Who’s making this for their next meal?
#MeltedCheeseFix
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions to craft the perfect sandwich. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your fresh baguette and slice it open lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through, creating a hinge. Gently pull out some of the soft interior bread to create more room for fillings. Next, brush the inside of the baguette with the melted butter and a thin, even layer of Dijon mustard. Season the buttered surfaces with the black pepper. Now, layer the ingredients: start with half of the cheese slices on the bottom half, followed by all the thinly sliced smoked pastrami, and then top with the remaining cheese. Close the sandwich and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwich on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. After baking, carefully unwrap the foil, return the sandwich to the oven, and broil for 2-3 minutes until the bread is crispy and the cheese is bubbling and golden. Let it rest for 2 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty sandwich is a meal on its own but can be elevated with the right sides. Serve it with a crisp dill pickle spear and a handful of kettle-cooked potato chips for classic deli vibes. For a warmer meal, pair it with a bowl of tomato soup or a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a crowd, slice the sandwich into 2-inch diagonal pieces for perfect, shareable party appetizers.
How-to Summary
In short: Prepare the baguette, layer with butter, mustard, cheese, and pastrami. Wrap in foil and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes. Unwrap and broil for 2-3 minutes until crispy. Rest, slice, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread? Absolutely. A sturdy ciabatta, rye, or even sourdough loaf will work well. The key is using bread that can hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
What’s the best cheese substitute for Swiss or Provolone? Gruyère offers a fantastic nutty flavor, while Gouda provides excellent meltability. For a sharper taste, try aged white cheddar.
How can I make this in a panini press? Simply assemble the sandwich, butter the outside of the bread lightly, and cook in the preheated press for 5-7 minutes until crispy and the cheese is melted.
Can I prepare this sandwich ahead of time? You can assemble the sandwich (without baking) up to 4 hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate. Add 3-5 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Is there a good alternative to pastrami? Corned beef, high-quality roast beef, or even thick-cut ham are excellent substitutes that pair wonderfully with the melted cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overstuffing the baguette, which can make it difficult to eat and cause fillings to spill out. Do not skip the step of removing some of the soft bread interior—this creates crucial space. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking. Finally, do not skip the brief resting period after broiling; this allows the cheese to set slightly so it doesn’t all ooze out on the first bite.
Conclusion
This Melted Cheese & Smoked Pastrami Sandwich is more than just a quick meal; it’s a delicious project that delivers gourmet results with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a crispy, gooey, and deeply satisfying sandwich every time. It’s the ultimate comfort food that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy your creation!
