The Ultimate Pastrami Burger with Tangy Kraut: A Flavor-Packed Summer Sensation
Prepare to elevate your grilling game this summer with the truly epic **Pastrami Burger with Kraut**. This isn’t just any burger; it’s a meticulously crafted masterpiece featuring a juicy beef patty, blanketed in melted Swiss cheese, topped generously with warm, savory pastrami, and crowned with tangy sauerkraut. All of this deliciousness is served on a perfectly toasted bun, slathered with stone-ground mustard. It’s a mouthwatering combination that promises to make your taste buds sing with happiness and become a staple at your backyard barbecues.
You are absolutely going to adore this Pastrami Burger with Kraut. You might recall my popular Reuben Burger recipe, and while this Pastrami Burger shares some similarities, it boasts unique twists that truly set it apart. Just like a classic New York Deli Pastrami sandwich, it features the indispensable kick of mustard. However, in a delightful departure, instead of tangy pickles, this burger is piled high with the vibrant flavor of Frank’s Kraut. Furthermore, unlike the traditional Reuben, which is traditionally packed with corned beef and a generous dollop of Thousand Island Dressing on rye bread, this Pastrami Burger finds its perfect home on a rich, buttery brioche bun, offering a sublime texture contrast and a touch of sweetness.
This post is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut, a brand whose delicious sauerkraut I have loved my entire life. All opinions expressed here are genuinely my own and reflect my lifelong appreciation for their quality product.
Grill Out with Flavorful Frank’s Kraut
As the saying goes, “Summertime and the livin’ is easy.” There’s an undeniable magic to a meal cooked outdoors on a warm, sun-drenched day. The aroma of sizzling meats, the laughter of friends and family gathered around the grill, and the shared anticipation of what deliciousness is about to emerge create truly unforgettable memories. Summer is synonymous with effortless entertaining, and nothing quite captures that spirit like classic grilled fare.
In our household, the grill is practically an extension of the kitchen during the warmer months. We frequently enjoy a wide array of grilled delights, from savory burgers to classic hot dogs and juicy brats. These dishes are not only incredibly easy to prepare but universally loved by all ages. The real “magic” happens when everyone gets to customize their meal with their favorite toppings, transforming a simple burger or hot dog into a personalized culinary creation.
And when it comes to must-have toppings in our home, a big jar of Frank’s Kraut is always at the ready! Its distinctive tangy crunch perfectly complements almost any grilled item, adding a burst of flavor that truly elevates the experience. Whether it’s topping a brat, mingling with a hot dog, or becoming the star of a gourmet burger, Frank’s Kraut consistently delivers a delightful culinary punch.
What Exactly is Sauerkraut? Unveiling its Health Benefits
For those unfamiliar, sauerkraut is a traditional German side dish made from finely shredded cabbage that has been fermented by various lactic acid bacteria. This fermentation process is not only ancient but incredibly beneficial, transforming simple cabbage into a condiment bursting with flavor and numerous health advantages. It imparts a distinctively sour taste and a satisfyingly crunchy texture to dishes, making it a beloved addition to a wide range of cuisines globally.
Beyond its culinary appeal, sauerkraut has garnered significant attention for its impressive health benefits. With the modern emphasis on gut health, you’ll be pleased to discover that a generous scoop of sauerkraut in your meals can play a vital role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Sauerkraut is naturally rich in dietary fiber, essential vitamins (like Vitamin C and K), and valuable minerals. Most notably, it is a fantastic source of probiotics – beneficial live bacteria that contribute to a balanced gut microbiome. These probiotics may help support the absorption of nutrients by the body, bolster the immune system, and even improve mood. Incorporating fermented foods like sauerkraut into your diet is an easy and delicious way to contribute to your overall well-being.
The Irresistible Pastrami Burger with Kraut
As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like the quintessential aroma of burgers sizzling on the barbecue. It’s a sensory experience that truly defines summer, wouldn’t you agree? But what if I told you that you could transcend the ordinary burger experience and elevate it to an entirely new level of gourmet deliciousness? You’d be intrigued, wouldn’t you? That’s precisely why I meticulously crafted this incredible Pastrami Burger with Kraut – to offer a burger experience that is both familiar and excitingly unique.
This burger takes all the comforting elements you love about a classic grilled patty and infuses them with the bold, savory characteristics of a deli favorite. The warm, peppery pastrami, combined with creamy melted Swiss cheese and the vibrant zest of Frank’s Kraut, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is truly unparalleled. It’s a culinary adventure wrapped in a bun, promising satisfaction with every single bite.
Crafting Your Own Pastrami Burger: The Recipe
Embrace the beauty of grilling season and cook these magnificent burgers outdoors on your grill. The smoky char from the grill adds an incomparable depth of flavor that enhances every component of this burger. However, if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate with your grilling plans, or if you simply prefer indoor cooking, rest assured that you can still achieve fantastic results. Simply cook the burger patties on medium-high heat in a large skillet on your stove. Do you own a cast iron skillet? Even better! Its superior heat retention and even distribution make it ideal for searing burgers to a perfect crusty exterior while keeping the interior wonderfully juicy. Regardless of your chosen cooking method, the goal is a perfectly cooked patty ready to be adorned with its delicious toppings.
If this enticing pastrami burger with kraut captures your heart and taste buds, you are sure to discover new favorites among these other Reuben-inspired recipes as well: Reuben Meatloaf, Reuben Pizza, or this comforting Reuben Breakfast Casserole With Crescent Rolls. Each offers a unique spin on those classic deli flavors!
The Perfect Pastrami Burger for Any Occasion
This Pastrami Burger is not just a meal; it’s a celebration. Perfectly suited for grilling season, it makes an ideal centerpiece for your next backyard barbecue, a crowd-pleasing addition to a casual picnic, or a guaranteed hit at any potluck. Its robust flavors and satisfying components ensure it stands out in any culinary gathering. Feel free to personalize your burger further by adding your favorite classic burger toppings. A few slices of crisp dill pickles can enhance the tanginess, or a spoonful of sweet pickle relish can add a contrasting sweetness. The beauty of this burger lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your exact preferences.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pastrami Burger
Crafting the perfect Pastrami Burger requires a selection of high-quality ingredients that harmonize to create its distinctive flavor profile. You’ll find the complete, precise measurements and detailed instructions conveniently located at the bottom of this post within the printable recipe card. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef – Start with approximately 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef, which will yield four perfectly sized burgers. While beef is traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with ground chicken, ground chuck, or ground turkey for a different twist, ensuring they are seasoned appropriately. For optimal flavor and juiciness, an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is often recommended for ground beef. Remember to season your ground beef generously with freshly ground black pepper and salt to enhance its natural flavors before forming patties.
- Pastrami – The star of this burger, thinly sliced deli pastrami, brings an incredible depth of peppery, smoky, and savory flavor. Seek out high-quality pastrami from your local deli counter for the best results. If pastrami is unavailable or you prefer an alternative, sliced corned beef also works exceptionally well, offering a similar, albeit slightly different, classic deli taste.
- Swiss Cheese – Slices of Swiss cheese melt beautifully and provide a creamy, nutty counterpoint to the rich pastrami and tangy kraut. Pre-sliced Swiss cheese is the most convenient option, but buying a block and slicing it yourself allows for customization of thickness.
- Burger Buns – The foundation of your burger, and vital for the ultimate experience. Buttered and toasted buns are non-negotiable for achieving the best flavor and a delightful textural crunch. I personally recommend using sesame brioche buns, as their slight sweetness and rich, buttery texture perfectly complement the savory fillings. However, a good quality potato bun or even a hearty ciabatta roll can also be excellent choices.
- Frank’s Kraut – This is where the “wow factor” comes in! Drained sauerkraut adds a vibrant, tangy, and slightly sour note that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Draining the kraut properly ensures your burger doesn’t become soggy.
- Stone Ground Mustard – A robust, grainy mustard is crucial for this burger. Its earthy, pungent notes beautifully complement the smoky flavors of the pastrami and the sharpness of the Swiss cheese, tying all the components together with a sophisticated kick. While stone ground is preferred, a good quality Dijon mustard can also be used.
How to Assemble Your Irresistible Pastrami Burgers with Kraut
Creating this hearty and incredibly satisfying meal is surprisingly straightforward, and you can have it ready to enjoy in approximately 30 minutes! Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious burger:
1. **Prepare the Buns:** Begin by buttering the cut sides of your burger buns. Place them cut-side down in a dry skillet over medium heat or directly on a cooler part of your grill. Toast until they are golden brown and slightly crispy, typically 1-2 minutes. This step adds essential flavor and prevents the buns from getting soggy. Once toasted, set them aside.
2. **Form the Patties:** Divide your ground beef into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty about ¾-inch thick, making sure they are slightly wider than your buns as they will shrink during cooking. Create a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb – this helps prevent the burgers from bulging in the middle. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. **Cook the Burgers:** Whether you choose to grill or pan-fry, cook your burger patties to your desired internal temperature. For medium-rare (warm red center), cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. For medium (warm pink center), aim for 4-5 minutes per side. For well-done (no pink), cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy if unsure. Just before the burgers are finished cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty and allow it to melt into a creamy, luscious blanket.
4. **Warm the Toppings:** While the cheese is melting, gently warm the slices of pastrami and the drained sauerkraut. You can do this in a separate small skillet, on the grill alongside the burgers (if using foil), or briefly in the microwave. The warmth enhances their flavors and textures.
5. **Assemble Your Masterpiece:** It’s time to build your magnificent Pastrami Burgers! Take the toasted bottom bun and generously slather it with a hearty layer of stone-ground mustard. This provides a flavorful base and the signature tangy kick of a deli classic.
6. **Layer the Goodness:** Carefully place a cheesy burger patty onto the mustard-coated bottom bun. Then, pile a generous portion of warm pastrami slices directly on top of the melted Swiss. The heat from the burger will gently warm the pastrami even further.
7. **The Tangy Finish:** Next, add a big helping of delicious Frank’s Kraut. Don’t be shy here; the kraut is a key player in the flavor profile. Finally, crown your creation with the toasted top bun.
Serve your Pastrami Burgers with Kraut immediately while they are hot and the cheese is wonderfully melty. Enjoy every single satisfying bite!
**Storing Leftovers:** Should you be fortunate enough to have any leftover burgers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked burger patties (without toppings) for up to 3 months. It’s best to store burger components (patties, pastrami, kraut) separately to maintain their individual textures and flavors for reheating.
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If you’re as smitten with this Pastrami Burger with Kraut as we are, make sure you don’t lose this amazing recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go so you can easily find it whenever a burger craving strikes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pastrami and Reuben Burgers
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What’s the fundamental difference between a pastrami sandwich and a Reuben sandwich? While both are beloved deli classics, they have distinct profiles. A traditional Reuben sandwich is typically made with tender corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Thousand Island dressing, all served grilled between slices of rye bread. A classic pastrami sandwich, on the other hand, highlights thinly sliced, spiced pastrami, often paired with sharp mustard and sometimes pickles, also usually on rye bread. The key differentiators are the type of cured meat (corned beef vs. pastrami), the dressing (Thousand Island vs. mustard), and the presence of sauerkraut versus pickles.
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Is a Reuben made with pastrami or corned beef? A truly classic and authentic Reuben Sandwich is, without a doubt, made with flavorful corned beef. While variations exist, corned beef is the traditional meat for this iconic sandwich.
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How long does it typically take to grill a burger? The cooking time for a grilled hamburger can vary based on thickness and your desired level of doneness, as well as the heat of your grill. For a medium doneness (warm pink center), plan for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, totaling 6-8 minutes. If you prefer your burger medium-rare (warm red center), reduce the cooking time by a minute or two per side. For a well-done burger (no pink), you might cook for 5-6 minutes per side. It’s crucial to remember that very thin or very thick burgers will require adjusted cooking times. Additionally, all grills operate differently, so always watch your burgers carefully and consider using a meat thermometer for precise results.
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How long should I cook burger patties on the stove? Similar to grilling, the cooking time for burger patties on the stove depends on their thickness and your preference for doneness. On medium-high heat in a cast iron skillet, a medium-done burger will take roughly the same amount of time as on the grill, about 4-5 minutes per side. For thicker patties, extend cooking slightly. Always monitor closely and adjust as needed.
Discover expert Tips and Tricks for Making the BEST Burger every time!
Creative Substitutions and Variations for Your Pastrami Burger
When it comes to culinary creations, remember that recipes are often just starting points! Don’t be afraid to embrace your inner chef, get creative with substitutions, and use ingredients that perfectly suit your personal taste, dietary preferences, or whatever you have on hand. Making a recipe your own is part of the fun!
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Bread Alternatives: Instead of traditional burger buns, consider serving your delectable Pastrami Burgers on slices of classic rye bread. This not only harks back to the deli sandwich origins but also adds a robust, savory flavor that complements the pastrami beautifully.
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Lower-Carb Options: For those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake, create open-faced burgers or serve them bun-less entirely. Enjoy this hearty meal with a knife and fork, savoring all the flavors without the extra carbs.
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Time-Saving Shortcuts: To make things quicker and simpler on a busy weeknight, don’t hesitate to purchase pre-made burger patties from your local butcher or grocery store. Similarly, pre-sliced cheese can shave off precious prep time.
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Cheese Variations: While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone for a sharper flavor, or even a smoked cheddar for an extra layer of complexity.
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Mustard Magic: If stone ground mustard isn’t your preference, a spicy brown mustard can offer an exhilarating kick, or a classic yellow mustard can provide a more familiar, tangy note.
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Extra Toppings: Consider adding a layer of thinly sliced red onion for a fresh bite, or some caramelized onions for a sweet and savory contrast. A slice of ripe tomato or a crisp lettuce leaf can also add a refreshing element.
Pro Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pastrami Burgers
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Be Prepared: For those impromptu summer barbecues or sudden cravings, keep a package of your favorite burger buns and a stash of high-quality frozen burger patties in your freezer. This way, you’re always just minutes away from a fantastic meal.
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Leftover Love: If you happen to have any leftover corned beef from a previous meal, go ahead and use that instead of pastrami. It will create a burger that’s very reminiscent of a Reuben, offering a delightful twist on this recipe.
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The Right Grind: For the absolute best burger flavor and juiciness, always aim to choose 80% lean ground beef. This fat content ensures your patties remain moist and flavorful as they cook, preventing them from drying out.
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Don’t Press the Patties: A common mistake is pressing down on the burgers with your spatula while they cook. Resist this urge! Pressing them forces out valuable juices, leading to a dry and less flavorful burger. Let the grill or pan do its work.
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Even Cooking: To ensure your burgers cook evenly, make sure they are of uniform thickness. If forming them by hand, create a slight dimple in the center of each patty; this helps prevent the burger from puffing up into a ball shape.
Explore more fantastic recipes and ideas when you Grill Out With Frank’s Kraut!
More Irresistible Burger Recipes to Love
If you’re a true burger aficionado, your culinary adventure doesn’t have to stop with this amazing Pastrami Burger. Expand your repertoire with these other mouthwatering burger creations, each offering a unique and delightful experience:
- Reuben Burgers (as pictured above) – A fantastic fusion of two deli favorites, bringing together the best of both worlds.
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Swiss Cheese Kraut Burgers – Another incredible way to enjoy the delicious pairing of Swiss cheese and tangy kraut in a burger.
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Easy Garlic Mushroom Burgers – A simple yet incredibly flavorful burger, perfect for garlic and mushroom lovers.
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Mushroom Swiss Burger – A classic combination that delivers rich, earthy flavors and creamy melted Swiss.
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Blackened Salmon Burgers With BLT Slaw – A lighter, yet intensely flavorful seafood burger option, complete with a fresh, crunchy slaw.
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Western Burgers – For those who love bold, hearty flavors, topped with BBQ sauce, onion rings, and bacon.
Explore Even MORE Sauerkraut Recipes to Love
The versatility of sauerkraut extends far beyond just burgers! Dive into a world of flavorful possibilities with Frank’s Kraut. They consistently share delicious and innovative recipes all year long that showcase just how incredible this humble fermented cabbage can be. Make sure to follow along with Frank’s Kraut on their social media channels to stay inspired and never miss a new recipe!
Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all things sauerkraut! Ready to experience the goodness for yourself? You can grab some authentic Frank’s Kraut directly from their website!
Prefer to see my personal collection of recipes featuring this incredible ingredient? You can See All of My Sauerkraut Recipes here!
Don’t wait another moment to indulge in the truly mouthwatering experience of this Pastrami Burger with Kraut! This masterpiece combines a perfectly juicy beef patty, lusciously melted Swiss cheese, savory warm pastrami, and the irresistible tang of Frank’s Kraut, all brought together with a zesty spread of Stone Ground Mustard on a beautifully toasted bun. It’s a flavor adventure guaranteed to satisfy your deepest burger cravings and leave you utterly content. Satisfaction, indeed, is guaranteed!
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Print Recipe
Pastrami Burger with Kraut
Equipment
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle, 16.75 Inch x 9.5 Inch, Black
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Traeger Pellet Grills Pro Series 780 Pellet Bronze Grill, Smoker
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Char-Broil 4-Burner Cart Style Liquid Propane Gas Grill
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Weber Spirit S-315 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
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Grill Set Heavy Duty BBQ Accessories – BBQ Tool Set 4pc Grill Accessories
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Frank’s Kraut, 14oz (24 pack)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 6 ounces Swiss cheese sliced
- 1/2 pound pastrami sliced
- 1 cup Frank’s Kraut drained
- Stone Ground Dijon Mustard to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- butter
Instructions
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Begin by buttering the insides of your burger buns and toasting them in a skillet or on the grill. Set them aside.
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Salt and pepper ground beef and form 4 patties.
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Grill or pan-fry your burgers until they are the desired internal temperature to your liking.
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Top with cheese and let it melt.
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Warm the pastrami slices and the sauerkraut.
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Build your Pastrami Burgers by slathering the bun with stone ground mustard. Place a burger on the bottom bun, top it with pastrami, then Frank’s Kraut, and finally the top bun.
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Serve hot.
Nutrition