There is something truly special about a perfectly crafted French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe that brings together tender, flavorful pastrami, gooey melted cheese, and a sumptuous mushroom-infused dipping sauce. This sandwich is comfort food elevated, combining the savory goodness of thinly sliced pastrami with the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms bathed in a robust au jus. The crispy, toasted hoagie roll just pulls all the flavors together, creating an irresistible meal that’s incredibly satisfying for any time of day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each contributes a unique layer of flavor, texture, or color that transforms this sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary.
- 1 lb sliced pastrami beef deli meat: The smoky, tender star protein that makes every bite memorable.
- 4 hoagie rolls: Perfectly crusty on the outside, soft inside, providing the ideal sandwich base.
- 8 slices provolone cheese or 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melted cheese adds creamy richness and binds the sandwich together.
- 1/2 lb mushrooms (about 10-12), thickly sliced: Earthy mushrooms bring depth and a slight chewiness that pairs wonderfully with pastrami.
- Garlic salt & black pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that elevate the mushrooms and au jus to savory perfection.
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth: The base for the luscious mushroom au jus, adding meaty intensity.
- A small pat of butter: For toasting the rolls to golden perfection.
How to Make French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms and Prepare the Au Jus
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and sauté the thickly sliced mushrooms until they are golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle them with garlic salt and black pepper to enhance their natural umami. Once perfectly cooked, remove the mushrooms and set them aside. Without cleaning the pan, pour in the beef broth and bring it to a boil, letting it reduce slightly to concentrate the flavor. Season this broth with a pinch more garlic salt and pepper to taste. This rich broth is your mushroom-infused au jus, destined for dipping every delicious bite.
Step 2: Toast the Hoagie Rolls
In the same skillet, add a small pat of butter and let it melt and sizzle. Place the hoagie rolls cut side down and sauté them briefly until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step adds a lovely crisp texture and a buttery aroma to complement the savory fillings.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Divide the sliced pastrami evenly among the toasted rolls. Layer the sautéed mushrooms atop the meat, then add the slices of provolone or a generous handful of shredded mozzarella. This combination ensures every mouthful is explosive with flavor.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Heat the Sandwich
Place the prepared sandwiches on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese melts wonderfully over the pastrami and mushrooms and the meat is heated through. This step is the final touch, melting everything into perfect harmony.
Step 5: Serve with the Mushroom Au Jus
Serve each sandwich piping hot alongside individual ramekins filled with the rich mushroom au jus dipping sauce. Dip generously with every bite for the full French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe experience that will keep you coming back for more.
How to Serve French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley can brighten up this rich sandwich, adding a pop of color and a hint of fresh herbal flavor. You might also consider a few slices of pickles on the side to cut through the richness with their tangy crunch.
Side Dishes
Crispy fries, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or even a bowl of creamy coleslaw make excellent companions to the French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe. These sides provide balance and variety, completing a hearty and well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the sandwiches open-faced on a wooden board, allowing everyone to pile on their mushrooms and cheese before folding. Alternatively, individual mini-hoagie sizes make great party appetizers, each enjoyed with its own tiny au jus dipping bowl. This dish is as flexible as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. The pastrami and mushrooms hold their flavor well, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe ahead of time for busy days, assemble the sandwiches without toasting or baking and freeze them individually wrapped. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking and serving.
Reheating
Reheat sandwiches in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Warm the au jus separately on the stove or in the microwave for dipping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices for their melting properties and mild flavor, Swiss or Gruyère can add a nice nutty touch. Try what you love or have on hand.
What kind of mushrooms work best in the au jus?
Cremini or button mushrooms are ideal because they develop a deep, earthy flavor when sautéed, but feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello for more boldness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Yes! Swap the pastrami for hearty grilled portobello mushrooms or a savory plant-based deli slice, and use vegetable broth for the au jus to keep the same rich taste.
Can I prepare the au jus in advance?
Definitely. The mushroom au jus can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving with the sandwich for maximum flavor.
What’s the best way to dip the sandwich?
Take a hearty bite of the sandwich first, then a quick dip into the warm au jus to coat the bite with its savory juices. Repeat as often as needed for pure sandwich bliss.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a sandwich that’s hearty, flavorful, and just downright addictive, the French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe is an absolute must-try. From the tender pastrami to the luxurious mushroom au jus, this dish invites warm memories and joyful moments around the table. Trust me, once you take that first dip, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
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French Dip Pastrami Sandwich with Mushroom Au Jus Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 large sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This French Dip Pastrami Sandwich recipe features tender pastrami piled high on toasted hoagie rolls, topped with melted provolone or mozzarella cheese and sautéed mushrooms. Served with a rich, flavorful au jus made from reduced beef broth, these sandwiches make for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb sliced pastrami beef deli meat
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese or 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 lb (about 10–12) mushrooms, thickly sliced
Seasoning
- Garlic Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
Au Jus Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
Additional
- Butter (small pat for sautéing rolls)
Instructions
- Sauté Mushrooms: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the thickly sliced mushrooms until they become golden and soft. Season them with garlic salt and black pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare Au Jus: In the same skillet, without cleaning it, pour in 1 1/2 cups of beef broth. Bring it to a boil and let it reduce slightly for a few minutes. Season the broth well to create a flavorful dipping sauce, then remove it from the heat. This becomes your au jus.
- Toast Rolls: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a small pat of butter. When the butter is sizzling, place the hoagie rolls cut-side down and sauté just until golden brown.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Evenly divide the pastrami meat among the four toasted rolls. Top each sandwich with slices of provolone or shredded mozzarella cheese and the sautéed mushrooms.
- Bake Sandwiches: Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the pastrami is heated through.
- Serve: Serve each warm sandwich alongside an individual ramekin of the prepared au jus dipping sauce. Dip each bite for the authentic French Dip experience.
Notes
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone cheese based on your preference; both melt well and complement pastrami.
- Use fresh, thickly sliced mushrooms for best texture and flavor.
- The au jus can be made more flavorful with additional herbs like thyme or a splash of Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Butter the rolls lightly before toasting to achieve a golden, crisp texture.
- Leftover au jus can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
- For a crispier sandwich, broil for the last 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
