Slow Cooker Pastrami | Easy Crockpot Dinner

Published by:Nadia February 27, 2026February 27, 2026

Slow Cooker Pastrami is undoubtedly one of those dishes that dances effortlessly between comfort food and impressive fare. The recipe revolves around tender corned beef brimming with savory spices and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, transforming your slow cooker into an aromatic haven. Picture this: after a long day, you arrive home to a tantalizing scent wafting through your house, an invitation for a cozy dinner. As the meat comes apart at the slightest touch, it promises a dinner that’s as much about the experience as it is about the flavor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Slow Cooker Pastrami | Easy Crockpot Dinner
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Slow Cooker Pastrami | Easy Crockpot Dinner

Slow Cooker Pastrami | Easy Crockpot Dinner

I first stumbled upon this slow-cooked gem during a family gathering, where the warm sandwiches piled high with layers of pastrami and tangy sauerkraut stole the show. It’s hard to believe something this delightful can be prepped in just ten minutes and left to do its magic for several hours. With budget-friendly ingredients and an easygoing cooking method, Slow Cooker Pastrami is a dish you’ll want to bring to your table. It’s the kind of meal that draws people together, sparking joy, laughter, and a few nostalgic memories along the way. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep time is just 10 minutes, allowing you to set it and forget it.
Irresistible Flavor: This pastrami is savory, slightly sweet, and filled with delicious spices.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Serve it in sandwiches, and enjoy visually pleasing layers of meat, cheese, and toppings.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for gatherings, game days, or even as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by choosing gluten-free bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 lbs. corned beef: I recommend using a flat cut for optimal tenderness; brisket works well, too.
Spice packet: This typically comes with the corned beef and is loaded with traditional flavors.
1 tsp. onion powder: Adds depth and richness to the overall profile.
3 tbsp. brown sugar: This brings a delightful sweetness that balances the spices.
½ tsp. ground black pepper: Just enough to add a hint of heat and enhance the flavor.
5 garlic cloves, peeled but left whole: Infuse your meat with a savory flavor while allowing them to mellow beautifully.
12 oz. beer: Choose a lager for a light, crisp taste that elevates the meat’s richness.
3 cups water: Helps create steam for tender, moist pastrami.
1 tsp. hickory liquid smoke: This imparts that irresistible, smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional pastrami.
Marble rye: A deliciously soft and flavorful bread that pairs beautifully with pastrami.
Thousand Island dressing: Adds a creamy, tangy layer of flavor that’s essential to your sandwich.
Swiss cheese: Melty and nutty, this cheese complements the overall richness.
Sauerkraut: Adds a delightful crunch and tang, making every bite irresistible.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pastrami | Easy Crockpot Dinner

Rinse the Corned Beef: Start by rinsing the corned beef very well to remove excess salt. This step is crucial for a balanced flavor.
Add to the Slow Cooker: Place the rinsed corned beef into your slow cooker, making sure it fits snugly.
Season It Up: Sprinkle the spice packet, onion powder, brown sugar, and black pepper over the corned beef. Toss in the whole garlic cloves for a flavor boost.
Pour in the Liquids: Add the beer, water, and hickory liquid smoke. These add moisture and contribute to the depth of flavor.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 7-8 hours. Your home will soon be filled with mouthwatering aromas!
Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the corned beef to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juiciness.

Storing & Reheating

For safe storage, keep any leftovers at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours. When cooled, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you want to keep your pastrami longer, freeze it in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a skillet over low heat or microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute, ensuring the meat stays moist. Note that the texture might change slightly after freezing, so fresh slices really shine.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be sure to rinse the corned beef thoroughly to avoid an overly salty dish.
Use room temperature ingredients for more even cooking; it applies to the beer and any accompaniments.
For best results, avoid opening the slow cooker during cooking to maintain a consistent temperature.
If you want a bit more smoke flavor, consider adding an extra ½ teaspoon of hickory liquid smoke.
Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preferences; a dash of cayenne can add a nice kick!

The sheer simplicity of this recipe should encourage you to give it a whirl. The flavors meld uniquely, and the slow cooking process ensures tenderness that’s simply hard to achieve any other way. Enjoy layering your sandwiches with creamy Thousand Island dressing, Swiss cheese, and crunchy sauerkraut.

While this pastrami is certainly stellar as a sandwich, don’t hesitate to explore serving it alongside mashed potatoes or in a hearty salad. You could even enjoy it solo with a tangy dipping sauce on the side. The possibilities are indeed mouthwatering!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! If corned beef isn’t your thing, you can try brisket, turkey, or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since different meats will have different cooking needs.

What type of beer works best?

A lager or pale ale works beautifully since they have a lighter profile that won’t overpower the flavors of the meat. Feel free to pick your favorite brand!

Can I cook it on high instead of low?

Definitely! If you’re short on time, you can switch to high and cook the pastrami for about 4-5 hours. Keep an eye on it to ensure it remains tender.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Pastrami?

Sandwiches are a classic choice, but you can also serve it with roasted vegetables, over rice, or tucked into a warm wrap with your favorite toppings. The options are endless!

Now, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and treat yourself to this delightful pastrami experience. You’ll easily create a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the journey and the delicious results!