f you’re a fan of pastrami sandwiches or love the zesty flavor of sauerkraut, then Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are the perfect treat for you! These savory rolls combine the smoky, tender pastrami with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut, all wrapped up in a soft, pillowy dough. The combination of flavors creates a unique and satisfying bite that’s perfect for parties, game days, or simply when you’re craving something a little different.
Whether served as appetizers, snacks, or even as a main dish alongside a salad, Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are sure to be a hit. The rich pastrami flavor, combined with the tangy sauerkraut and cheesy filling, creates an irresistible savory snack that everyone will love.
Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are a creative twist on the classic pastrami sandwich, packed with smoky, tender pastrami, zesty sauerkraut, and a cheesy filling, all wrapped in soft dough. These rolls are easy to make and offer a delicious combination of flavors in every bite. The dough is light and fluffy, while the filling is rich, savory, and just the right balance of tangy and smoky. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual meal, as party food, or as a fun way to switch up your lunch, these rolls offer an exciting take on a classic flavor combination.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are the perfect snack or main dish to serve at your next gathering.
Exciting Story:
I first made Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls when I was in the mood for something inspired by the classic pastrami and sauerkraut sandwich, but I wanted to try something a little more portable and fun. After experimenting with rolling up the ingredients inside a dough, I hit the perfect combination of savory and tangy flavors. The smoky pastrami, sharp sauerkraut, and gooey cheese made each bite a delicious delight.
When I served them at a family gathering, they were gone in minutes! Everyone loved how the flavors of the pastrami and sauerkraut melded together in the soft, fluffy roll, and I knew I had discovered a new favorite. Now, Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are one of my go-to snacks for game days, parties, and casual dinners. They’re always a hit, and they’re so easy to make!
Why This Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls:
- Perfect Flavor Combination: The smoky pastrami and tangy sauerkraut complement each other beautifully, while the cheese adds richness to the roll.
- Versatile: These rolls can be served as appetizers, snacks, or a light meal. You can even make them ahead of time and reheat for a quick, satisfying treat.
- Easy to Make: With store-bought dough and a few simple ingredients, these rolls are quick and easy to prepare.
- Great for Parties: They’re portable, fun to eat, and full of flavor, making them the perfect addition to any party or gathering.
- Customizable: You can adjust the amount of sauerkraut or pastrami to your liking, or even add other ingredients like mustard or pickles for extra flavor.
What You Need For Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls:
For the rolls:
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough (about 8 oz)
- 1/2 lb pastrami, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional mustard for dipping
How to Make Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls:
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. - Prepare the dough:
Roll out the pizza dough or crescent roll dough on a clean surface, pressing it into a rectangle (about 10×12 inches). - Add the filling:
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) over the dough. Then, layer the pastrami slices evenly over the dough, followed by the sauerkraut and shredded Swiss cheese. - Roll up the dough:
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one edge and rolling all the way to the other. Seal the edges and pinch the ends to keep the filling inside. - Slice the rolls:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 1 to 1.5-inch thick pieces. Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet. - Bake the rolls:
Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for a golden, crispy finish. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with extra mustard for dipping.
Tips for Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls:
- Use store-bought dough: For a quicker and easier preparation, use pre-made dough like pizza dough or crescent rolls. You can also make your own dough if you prefer.
- Add pickles: For an extra layer of flavor, add sliced pickles or pickle relish to the filling for that classic deli sandwich taste.
- Customize the cheese: While Swiss is the classic cheese for this dish, you can substitute with cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little heat.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make this dish gluten-free.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the pastrami and use roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a veggie-filled roll.
- Spicy option: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or swap the Dijon mustard for spicy mustard to give these rolls some heat.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Lighten up the cheese: Use reduced-fat Swiss cheese or even a dairy-free cheese substitute to make these rolls lighter.
- Use whole-wheat dough: For a healthier dough option, use whole wheat pizza dough or crescent rolls.
- Reduce the amount of meat: You can use a smaller amount of pastrami to make this dish lower in fat, or substitute with turkey pastrami for a leaner option.
Closing for Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls:
And there you have it! Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are a savory, satisfying treat that brings together the classic flavors of pastrami and sauerkraut in a fun, bite-sized package. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, serving them as a party appetizer, or simply indulging in a comforting meal, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With the combination of smoky pastrami, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey cheese, these rolls are a delicious way to enjoy a classic deli combination. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions For Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls:
- Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute pastrami with corned beef, turkey pastrami, or even ham for a different twist. - Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls, cover them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Bake them when you’re ready to serve. - Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the rolls before baking. Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cook time. - Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Yes, you can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even melted cheese to the filling for extra flavor. - Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes, you can use puff pastry or even crescent roll dough for a different texture. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results. - Can I make these rolls vegetarian?
Yes, skip the pastrami and use vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, and onions for a veggie version. - What should I serve these rolls with?
These rolls are great served with a side of salad, pickles, or even some tangy mustard for dipping. - Can I make these spicy?
Yes, you can add spicy mustard, jalapeños, or pepper jack cheese to the filling for an added kick. - Can I bake these rolls in a casserole dish?
Yes, you can arrange the rolls in a casserole dish and bake them together for a more cohesive presentation. - Can I add cheese to the topping?
Yes, sprinkle more cheese on top of the rolls before baking for an extra cheesy finish. - Can I use a dairy-free cheese?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese options like vegan cheddar or mozzarella. - How long should I bake these rolls?
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted. - What other condiments can I serve with these rolls?
These rolls are great served with mustard, ketchup, or even a tangy BBQ sauce for extra flavor. - Can I make a smaller version of these rolls?
Yes, you can make mini rolls by cutting the dough into smaller pieces and adjusting the filling amounts accordingly. - Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
While this recipe works best in the oven, you could cook the filling and then stuff the dough into the rolls for a quick bake in the oven.
Pastrami & Sauerkraut Rolls are the perfect savory snack that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing. Enjoy this classic combination in a whole new way!