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If you ask me, pastrami roll ups are a real lunchtime game-changer.
These handheld bites take the classic deli sandwich and turn it into something fun and totally snackable. Soft tortillas wrapped around layers of pastrami, cream cheese, and fresh veggies make every bite taste like your favorite sandwich shop creation.
I love how easy these are to put together – just spread, layer, roll, and slice. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the peppery pastrami, while the crisp vegetables add a nice crunch to each bite.
They’re perfect for everything from lunch boxes to party platters, and they always seem to disappear fast whenever I serve them.
Why You’ll Love These Pastrami Roll Ups
- Quick lunch option – These roll ups come together in just 10 minutes, making them perfect for busy weekday lunches or last-minute snacks.
- Low-carb friendly – Using a low-carb wrap instead of bread makes this a great choice for anyone watching their carb intake or following a keto diet.
- No cooking required – All you need to do is assemble – no stove, oven, or microwave needed, which is perfect for office lunches or quick meals on the go.
- Classic deli flavors – You get all the tasty elements of a traditional pastrami sandwich – the tangy sauerkraut, creamy cheese, and savory meat – in an easy-to-eat format.
What Kind of Pastrami Should I Use?
For these roll ups, you’ll want to look for thinly sliced deli-style pastrami that’s pliable enough to roll without breaking. The meat counter at your grocery store usually offers a few options – traditional beef pastrami is the most common, but you might also find turkey pastrami if you’re looking for a lighter alternative. When selecting your pastrami, look for slices that have a nice marble of fat and a deep red color with visible spices on the edges. Try to avoid pre-packaged pastrami that’s been sitting in the cooler for a while, as fresh-sliced from the deli counter will give you the best flavor and texture for your roll ups.
Options for Substitutions
This easy roll-up recipe is super adaptable and you can switch things up based on what you have in your fridge:
- Low-carb wrap: You can use any type of wrap you prefer – regular flour tortillas, spinach wraps, or even lettuce leaves if you want to cut more carbs. Just make sure they’re fresh and pliable to prevent tearing.
- Pastrami: No pastrami? No worries! Try corned beef, roast beef, or turkey. Even smoked ham works great in these roll-ups.
- Jarlsberg Swiss cheese: Regular Swiss cheese works perfectly fine, or try provolone, havarti, or even cheddar if that’s what you have on hand.
- Sauerkraut: If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut or don’t have any, try some pickled onions, diced pickles, or coleslaw for that tangy crunch.
- Mixed baby greens: Any leafy greens will work here – try spinach, arugula, or even shredded lettuce. You can also skip the greens entirely if you prefer.
- Mayonnaise: Feel free to swap mayo with mustard, Russian dressing, or cream cheese. For a lighter option, try mashed avocado or hummus.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making
The biggest challenge when making pastrami roll ups is overfilling your wraps, which can lead to messy eating and ingredients spilling out – stick to the recommended portions and leave a small border around the edges for secure rolling. A common mistake is not patting the sauerkraut dry before adding it to your wrap, which can make the tortilla soggy and difficult to roll – use a paper towel to remove excess moisture first. For the best texture and flavor, avoid rolling these too far in advance, as the wraps can become soft and lose their pleasant bite – if you need to make them ahead, try wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them seam-side down in the refrigerator for no more than 4-6 hours. To get the tightest roll possible, start with a room temperature tortilla (cold ones tend to crack) and roll firmly but gently, keeping the ingredients in place as you go.
What to Serve With Pastrami Roll Ups?
These deli-inspired roll ups are perfect for lunch or as a party appetizer, and there are lots of tasty sides that work well with them! A crunchy dill pickle spear on the side adds that classic deli touch, while some kettle-cooked potato chips bring extra crunch and saltiness to the plate. If you’re keeping things light, try a simple coleslaw dressed with vinegar instead of mayo, or a small bowl of tomato soup for dipping. For casual gatherings, I like to serve these roll ups with some grainy mustard on the side for extra dipping fun.
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh: These pastrami roll ups are best enjoyed within 24 hours of making them. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge, and if you’re packing them for lunch, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper to keep them from unwrapping.
Make Ahead: You can prep these roll ups up to a day in advance, but I recommend adding the mixed greens just before serving to keep them crisp. If you’re meal prepping, store the greens separately in a small baggie or container and add them when you’re ready to eat.
Pack: For the perfect packed lunch, place your roll ups in a lunch container with an ice pack to keep them cool. They’re great for picnics or work lunches, just remember to eat them within a few hours of taking them out of the fridge.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0-1 minutes |
| Total Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 20-25 g
- Fat: 25-30 g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 g
Ingredients
- 1 low-carb wrap
- 1 slice deli-style pastrami
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or your chosen spread
- 1/4 cup shredded jarlsberg swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon sauerkraut
- 1/8 cup mixed baby greens
Step 1: Prepare the Wrap Base
Lay out the wrap on a clean surface.
Spread mayonnaise evenly over the entire surface of the wrap, making sure to reach the edges.
This will ensure each bite has flavor and acts as an adhesive for the other ingredients.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Lay a slice of pastrami on the wrap.
If the slice is large, fold it to fit within the wrap’s edges.
Spread a thin, even layer of cheese over the pastrami, ensuring full coverage.
Add small amounts of sauerkraut over the cheese, distributing it evenly for a balanced flavor.
Finally, add a light layer of greens to the top for freshness.
Step 3: Roll and Heat the Wrap
Carefully roll the wrap as tightly as possible, starting from one edge and moving to the opposite.
Ensure all ingredients stay within the wrap as you roll.
Place the rolled wrap in the microwave and heat it for about 20 seconds, just until the cheese begins to melt slightly.
This will help bind the wrap together and enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Transfer the warmed wrap onto a cutting board.
Using a sharp knife, cut the wrap into even sections, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Arrange them on a plate and serve for a quick and delicious meal or snack.