A Deli Sliced Corned Beef Sandwich is a classic, satisfying meal that features tender, thinly sliced corned beef piled high on your favorite bread, often topped with mustard, pickles, and sometimes Swiss cheese. The rich, savory flavor of the corned beef pairs perfectly with the tang of mustard and the crunch of pickles, creating a simple yet indulgent sandwich that’s beloved by many.
The first time I made a Deli Sliced Corned Beef Sandwich, I was amazed at how flavorful and filling such a simple sandwich could be. The corned beef was tender and flavorful, and the mustard and pickles added the perfect zing. What I love most about this sandwich is how customizable it is—you can swap in different types of mustard, add cheese like Swiss or cheddar, or even include coleslaw for a bit of crunch and creaminess. It’s the perfect sandwich for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with a side of chips or a pickle spear!
Perfect for:
- Quick lunches
- Picnic baskets
- Comfort food cravings
- Sandwich lovers
- Casual gatherings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Deli Sliced Corned Beef Sandwich will become your go-to sandwich:
- Tender, Savory Corned Beef: The thinly sliced corned beef is tender and juicy, offering a satisfying bite.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sharpness of mustard complements the richness of the corned beef, creating a deliciously balanced sandwich.
- Crisp Lettuce: Fresh lettuce adds a satisfying crunch and lightness to every bite.
- Sturdy Bread: A classic rye or whole wheat bread provides the perfect base, sturdy enough to hold all the fillings.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients, this sandwich is ready in minutes, making it a perfect option for busy days.
- Customizable Toppings: Add pickles, cheese, or even sauerkraut for extra flavor and texture.
- A Comforting Classic: This sandwich is the epitome of comfort food and can be enjoyed on any occasion.
- Filling and Satisfying: Hearty enough to fill you up without being overly heavy.
- Great for Meal Prep: Ideal for preparing in advance for lunches during the week.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Use leftover corned beef to create this quick and delicious sandwich.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: None (unless you choose to warm the corned beef)
- Servings: 1 serving
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
- 4 oz deli sliced corned beef
- 2 slices rye or whole wheat bread
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (or more to taste)
- 2 leaves Romaine lettuce
- 1 pickle, sliced (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Deli Sliced Corned Beef: The star ingredient, offering rich, salty flavor and tender texture.
- Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that enhances the flavor of the corned beef.
- Romaine Lettuce: Fresh and crunchy, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory meat.
- Rye Bread: A classic choice that complements the bold flavors of the sandwich.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Assemble the Sandwich:
- Prepare the Bread: Lay out two slices of rye or whole wheat bread on a clean surface.
- Spread Mustard: Spread a generous layer of mustard on one side of each slice of bread.
- Add Lettuce: Place the Romaine lettuce leaves on one slice of bread, covering it evenly.
- Layer the Corned Beef: Pile the deli-sliced corned beef on top of the lettuce, evenly distributing it across the bread.
- Add Pickles: If desired, add sliced pickles for a tangy crunch.
- Top the Sandwich: Place the second slice of bread, mustard side down, on top of the sandwich. Press lightly to hold everything in place.
Serve:
- Slice and Serve: Cut the sandwich in half for easy handling and serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Deli Sliced Corned Beef Sandwich:
- With a Side of Chips: Serve with a side of crispy chips for a classic pairing.
- With Coleslaw: Add a scoop of tangy coleslaw for a refreshing side dish.
- On a Picnic: Pack this sandwich for a casual picnic lunch.
- With Soup: Pair with a bowl of hearty soup, like potato or tomato, for a comforting meal.
- For a Party Platter: Make mini sandwiches for a fun and easy appetizer option.
- With Pickled Vegetables: Add extra tang with pickled onions, cucumbers, or peppers.
- As a Late-Night Snack: Perfect for satisfying your late-night cravings.
- For Game Day: Serve at sports gatherings for a filling and easy-to-eat snack.
- As a Meal Prep Option: Make several sandwiches in advance for quick lunches throughout the week.
- With a Cold Drink: Pair with a cold soda, or iced tea for a refreshing combination.
Additional Tips
- Add a Slice of Swiss: For an authentic deli flavor, top your corned beef with a slice of Swiss cheese. The creamy texture complements the saltiness of the beef.
- Toast Your Bread: Lightly toasting the bread gives it a crispy texture that enhances the sandwich’s overall crunch.
- Layer with Sauerkraut: For a tangy contrast, add a generous scoop of sauerkraut. It’s the perfect match for the rich, savory corned beef.
- Use Rye Bread: Rye bread is the classic choice for a corned beef sandwich. Its slightly sour flavor pairs wonderfully with the richness of the meat.
- Spread Mustard or Russian Dressing: For an extra layer of flavor, spread a bit of mustard or Russian dressing on the bread before adding the corned beef.
- Pickle Slices on the Side: Add some pickle slices on the side to cut through the heaviness of the meat with a crisp, tangy bite.
- Go Big on the Meat: Don’t be shy with the corned beef! Pile it high for a heartier, more satisfying sandwich.
- Sauté Onions: For an added depth of flavor, sauté onions until golden and add them to your sandwich.
- Pair with a Side of Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad makes the perfect side dish to your deli-style corned beef sandwich.
- Serve Hot or Cold: While typically served warm, corned beef sandwiches are also delicious cold, making them a versatile meal option.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Corned Beef Sandwich: Add Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Grilled Corned Beef Sandwich: Grill the sandwich on a pan for a crispy, toasted version.
- Reuben Sandwich: Add a layer of sauerkraut and swap mustard for Thousand Island dressing for a Reuben twist.
- Vegan Corned Beef Sandwich: Use a plant-based corned beef alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Corned Beef Sandwich: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Special Equipment
- Deli Slicer – For precision slicing of the corned beef to the perfect thickness.
- Griddle or Panini Press – For toasting the sandwich or heating it to crispy perfection.
- Bread Knife – For cleanly cutting through the bread without squashing it.
- Sandwich Wrapping Paper – To keep the sandwich fresh and presentable for delivery or takeout.
- Serving Tray – To serve the sandwich in a professional and appealing way.
- Meat Thermometer – To check the temperature of the corned beef for safe serving.
- Tongs – For handling hot or delicate sandwich ingredients without damaging them.
- Sandwich Press – For evenly pressing down on the sandwich to create a uniform, compact shape.
- Cheese Melter – If adding cheese, this equipment can help melt it perfectly.
- Deli Counter Display Case – To showcase the fresh, deli-sliced corned beef and other ingredients.
FAQ Section
- Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, feel free to use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough or baguette. - Can I substitute the mustard?
Yes, you can use mayonnaise, horseradish, or any spread you like. - How long does this sandwich stay fresh?
The sandwich is best eaten immediately, but it can be wrapped and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. - Can I freeze this sandwich?
It’s not recommended to freeze this sandwich, as the bread may become soggy upon thawing. - Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! You can add cheese, onions, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. - Is this sandwich gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread to make it a gluten-free option. - Can I make this sandwich with pastrami instead of corned beef?
Yes, pastrami is a great alternative for a similar flavor profile. - How can I make this sandwich spicier?
Add some hot sauce or spicy mustard to kick up the heat. - Can I serve this sandwich cold?
Yes, this sandwich is just as delicious served cold. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just double the ingredients and prepare multiple sandwiches for a group.
Conclusion
A Deli Sliced Corned Beef Sandwich is a classic, savory sandwich that’s both simple and satisfying. Made with tender, thinly sliced corned beef, typically piled high between two slices of rye bread, this sandwich is a staple of deli cuisine. The saltiness of the corned beef pairs perfectly with tangy mustard or creamy mayonnaise, and you can add layers of Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and pickles to enhance the flavor profile.
For an added twist, try grilling the sandwich for a crispy, melty version, or serve it cold for a lighter take. The richness of the corned beef and the bold flavors from the condiments and toppings make each bite irresistible.
I can’t wait to see how your Deli Sliced Corned Beef Sandwich turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!