Ingredients for Sensational Steak Sandwich
- 1 lb ribeye steak or sirloin steak: Choose a tender, well-marbled cut for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the steak and caramelizing the onions.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced: Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: For deglazing the pan and adding a bit of tang to the onions.
- 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully over the steak.
- 4 ciabatta rolls or baguette halves: Toasted for extra crunch and flavor.
- Handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach: Adds a peppery freshness to balance the richness.
- Salt and pepper: To season the steak.
- Optional condiments: Mustard, horseradish sauce, or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
How to Make the Sensational Steak Sandwich
- Prepare the steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking.
- Cook the onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and caramelized—this should take about 15 minutes. Once caramelized, stir in the balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan and add a touch of sweetness. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the steak: In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and your preferred doneness (medium-rare is recommended). Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Toast the bread: While the steak rests, lightly toast the ciabatta rolls or baguette halves in the oven or on a grill pan until golden brown.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place a generous amount of sliced steak on the bottom half of each roll. Top with caramelized onions, a slice of cheese, and fresh arugula or spinach. If desired, add a smear of mustard, horseradish sauce, or garlic aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches warm, with the melted cheese and juicy steak making each bite sensational.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet or grill pan: For cooking the steak and caramelizing the onions.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the steak thinly against the grain.
- Cutting board: To let the steak rest and for assembling the sandwiches.
- Tongs or spatula: To flip the steak and handle the bread.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F before letting the steak rest.
- Pre-caramelize the onions: Caramelizing onions can take time, so feel free to prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them briefly before assembling the sandwich.
- Swap the steak: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can substitute the ribeye or sirloin with flank steak or even thinly sliced roast beef.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Change the cheese: While provolone and Swiss are classic choices, you can swap them out for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese for a more unique flavor profile.
- Add some heat: If you like your sandwiches with a little kick, add sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or spicy mustard.
- Try different greens: Arugula adds a peppery bite, but you can also use spinach, lettuce, or even watercress for a different flavor and texture.
- Go low-carb: For a lighter version, skip the bread and serve the steak and toppings over a bed of greens for a steak salad.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftover steak, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the steak gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking it. You can also store any leftover caramelized onions in the fridge and reheat them when needed. If you’re making the sandwiches ahead of time, it’s best to assemble them just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Food Pairings
This Sensational Steak Sandwich pairs beautifully with a side of crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh side salad. For drinks, a cold beer or a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon would complement the rich flavors of the steak. For a lighter option, iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is a refreshing choice.