Pastrami Burger Recipe

Mix and form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add the finely chopped pastrami, kosher salt, 2 tsp black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and neutral oil. Gently mix with your hands or a spatula until just combined — do not overwork the meat. Divide into two equal portions and form into patties about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Chill briefly (optional)

If the mixture feels very soft, refrigerate the formed patties on a plate for 15–20 minutes to help them hold shape when cooking.

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add a light film of oil or a few drops and swirl. Place the patties in the pan, dimple-side up. Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until a good crust forms. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the last 1 minute of cooking, reduce heat to medium-low and place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty; cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese quickly (about 45–60 seconds). Remove patties to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Toast buns

Butter the cut sides of the buns lightly. Return the skillet to medium heat and place buns cut-side down for 30–60 seconds until golden and slightly crisp. Remove and set aside.

Warm Pastrami and Sauté Onions

If you prefer warm pastrami, add the remaining chopped pastrami to the skillet for 30–45 seconds to heat through. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and slightly translucent but not fully caramelized. Season onions with remaining 1 tsp black pepper while cooking.

Sauce Mix

In a small bowl, stir together the Russian or Thousand Island dressing and Dijon mustard until smooth. Taste and adjust — add a pinch of salt or more mustard if desired.

Assemble

Spread about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the dressing mixture on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy patty on top, then arrange warm pastrami (if used) and sautéed onions over the cheese. Add dill pickle chips and sprinkle minced parsley over the onions if using. Spread a little extra dressing on the top bun and sandwich the burger.

Serve the pastrami burger immediately while hot, with fries or a simple salad. Provide extra pickles and dressing on the side if desired.