This pastrami-wrapped hot dog gives a Reuben-inspired twist to the classic frank by wrapping hot dogs in pastrami, topping them with melted Swiss, sauerkraut, and a simple homemade Russian dressing.
I’ve been blogging for years and have heard the familiar conversation among food writers about originality: someone will say they created a recipe but then see a similar idea already online and worry if they should still post it. The consensus is usually that it’s fine to share — true originality is rare, and many recipes are variations on familiar themes.
With this hot dog recipe I admit I’m borrowing an idea I love — specifically a Reuben-style dog concept that I’ve returned to before. I spotted a Reuben-style pastrami dog idea in an old Every Day with Rachael Ray issue and added it to my menu. When I went to photograph the finished hot dogs I realized I’d already published a similar Reuben Dogs recipe in the past. I laughed, decided the two versions are different enough, and went ahead with these — same spirit, slightly different execution.
These turned out to be a winner. They’re straightforward to make: a quick Russian-style dressing, hot dogs wrapped in deli pastrami and grilled until the pastrami crisps, a slice of Swiss melted on top, and a spoonful of sauerkraut to finish. Each bite balances savory pastrami, melty cheese, tangy kraut, and the creamy dressing. I’d happily make them again — and you might see another variation from me someday, too.
These dogs are perfect for a casual meal, cookout, or when you want a fun twist on deli flavors without extra fuss. The ingredients are simple and easy to assemble, and the total time from start to finish is short — under 30 minutes — making them a great weeknight option.
More Hot Dog Recipes
Taco Dogs
Green Chile Hot Dogs
Coney Island Hot Dogs
Pastrami Wrapped Hot Dog Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 beef hot dogs
- 4 slices deli-sliced pastrami
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 hot dog buns
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut
Instructions
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Make the dressing: in a small bowl combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickle relish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For easy application, transfer the dressing to a small zip-top bag and snip a corner when ready to drizzle.
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Heat a grill or griddle over medium-high. Wrap each hot dog with a slice of pastrami and place seam-side down on the hot surface. Cook until the hot dog is heated through and the pastrami is lightly crisped. Top each with a slice of Swiss, cover briefly, and cook 1–2 minutes more until the cheese melts. Transfer to buns.
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Finish each dog with sauerkraut and a drizzle of the Russian dressing. Serve immediately.