Primanti Brothers’ Pastrami or Corned Beef Sandwich Dupe
Craving the iconic flavors of Pittsburgh's beloved Primanti Brothers sandwich? This recipe brings the heart and soul of their famous creation into your kitchen with a delicious combination of pastrami or corned beef, melted provolone cheese, tangy coleslaw, fresh tomatoes, pickled peppers, and crispy steak-cut fries—all nestled between two slices of grilled Italian bread. Perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings, this hearty sandwich is an irresistible bite of Pittsburgh’s culinary charm.
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
8 Ounces hearty Italian bread (about 1/2 inch thick, 4 slices)
.5 Pounds eli-style pastrami or corned beef (or a mix of both)
4 Ounces provolone cheese (2 slices per sandwich)
4 Ounces large tomato sliced (2-3 slices per sandwich)
.25 Cups pickled banana peppers or giardiniera
2 Tablespoons yellow mustard
2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
.25 Cups French fries (freshly cooked or frozen)
2 Tablespoons olive oil for grilling (may need more depending on bread type)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coleslaw:
If using store-bought coleslaw, make sure it’s a tangy variety. Alternatively, you can prepare your own by mixing shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, a dash of vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and salt to taste. Set aside.
2. Cook the French Fries:
If you’re making your own fries, cook them until crispy and golden. You can also use store-bought frozen fries and bake or fry them according to the package instructions.
3. Grill the Bread:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the slices of Italian bread with olive oil on both sides.
Grill the bread until it’s golden brown and crispy on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread mayonnaise on one slice of the grilled bread and yellow mustard on the other.
Layer the pastrami or corned beef on top of the mayonnaise side.
Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the meat, letting it slightly melt from the warmth of the meat.
Add slices of fresh tomato and a generous scoop of tangy coleslaw.
Pile the crispy French fries directly on top of the coleslaw.
Top with pickled banana peppers or giardiniera for a little heat.
5. Serve:
Place the other slice of grilled bread on top and press down gently to meld everything together.
Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately with extra fries on the side!
This Primanti Brothers-inspired sandwich brings together all the classic elements—savory deli meat, fresh tomato, crunchy coleslaw, crispy fries, and the perfect tangy pickles—all between two slices of perfectly grilled Italian bread. A Pittsburgh classic that’s easy to recreate at home and sure to satisfy!