This homemade steak sandwich recipe is a game changer! Juicy, pan-seared steak, gooey melted pepper jack cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a bold homemade chimichurri sauce all come together on buttery toasted ciabatta. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making this the best steak sandwich you’ll ever try at home!
I usually order turkey or chicken sandwiches, but always regret it after trying my boyfriend’s steak sandwiches and falling in love. haha There’s a local pub in Houston that had the most delicious steak sandwich. So of course I had to recreate it with my own twist. So this is my take on it.
I’m so excited to share this sandwich with you guys. This might be the best homemade steak sandwich recipe I’ve ever tried, packed with juicy steak and bold flavors. The zesty arugula. Spicy chimichurri. Soft and sweet caramelized onions. And the melt in your mouth steak Whew. Guys you have to try this one!
During the winter I know we find ourselves indoors majority of the time. I like to spend this time recreating my favorite take-out/ out to eat menu items. I mean, who doesn’t love to eat good food out the comfort of their house? Especially when it’s cold out.
This sandwich is a labor of love. A few additional steps, but it’s so worth it!
How to Make the Best Steak Sandwich at Home
Caramelize onions- The sandwich begins with caramelizing onions. This is the longest step, buttt it’s so worth it. I like to thinly slice sweet onions or yellow onions. And sautè them in butter and oil with brown sugar until the onions are nice and caramelized. The brown sugar isn’t necessary, but I like to speed up the process just a little bit. Also, you want to make sure your heat is not TOO high because the onions will burn.
Chimichurri– Traditionally Chimichurri is a combination of parsley, oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes and spices. I like to also add cilantro/basil for extra flavor. It pairs incredibly well with steak. Try my recipe.
How to Cook the Perfect Steak for a Sandwich– While the onions cook, I prep my steak. The steak should be at room temperature before cooking. That way you will get an even sear. All you need is salt and pepper for the seasoning. After you get a nice crust on the steak, reduce the heat and add in butter and aromatics- (fresh thyme, rosemary and garlic) and baste the steak. This is where you get crazy flavor!
Once the steak is done, allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting it. Prep the arugula salad by tossing it with Italian dressing. This adds a bright zesty flavor to the sandwich.
To Assemble-
Cut your ciabatta roll in half, spread some creole mustard on the buns, then layer the steak, and pepper jack cheese. Pop it in the oven for a few minutes to let the cheese get melty. Then add the caramelized onions, chimmichurri, and arugula. Close the sandwich and cut in half. & enjoy!
Best Steak Substitutes for a Steak Sandwich
If you don’t eat red meat, you can still enjoy this sandwich! Try grilled chicken breast, roasted portobello mushrooms, or even seared tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Steak sandwich variations
Feel free to add your own twist to this sandwich. Here are some ways to switch it up
- mushrooms
- peppers
- provolone cheese
Steak Sandwich FAQ
What cut of steak is best for steak sandwiches?
Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon work best because they are tender and flavorful.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions and make the chimichurri in advance. Cook the steak fresh for the best results.
What’s the best bread for a steak sandwich?
Ciabatta is my favorite, but French baguette or sourdough also work well.
Looking for more recipes to try?!
Spicy Basil Fried Rice
Crawfish Pies
Red Beans & Rice
Mongolian Beef
If you try this steak sandwich recipe, let me know in the comments! Tag @cookwithci on Instagram and use #Cookwithci so I can see your delicious creation!
Caramelized Onion & Arugula Steak Sandwich
Ingredients
Cajun Aioli
- 3 tbsp mayo
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tsp white truffle oil
- 1 tbsp minced garlic or garlic paste
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Chimichurri
- 1/2 cup Italian parsley
- 1/2 cup cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 shallot or red onion minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes more if you like it really hot
- salt + pepper
- 1/2 tsp oregano
Caramelized onions
- 1/2 yellow onion or sweet onion thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp W sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp water if needed
Steak
- 1 sirloin steak
- 2-3 tbsp butter
- salt+pepper
- 1 rosemary sprig
- 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 cloves garlic
Sandwich
- 1 ciabatta loaf halved, lengthwise
- 2-3 slices pepper jack cheese
Arugula Salad
- 1 cup arugula
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
For the sauce
- combine mayo, lemon juice, cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, white truffle oil, lemon juice, black pepper to taste.
- Add butter and olive oil to a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the bubble begins to bubble, add in onions and sprinkle with brown sugar. Cook on medium low stirring continuously until soft & golden. Add water as needed. Reduce heat if the onions begin to burn. Once the onions become a deep brown, transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
- To make the chimichurri, finely mince parsley, cilantro, garlic and red onion. Add to a medium bowl and combine with red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar and olive oil. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring steak to room temp before seasoning and cooking. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Press the salt in first, then the pepper. Over high heat, sear steak in a cast iron skillet for 2 minutes on each side. Reduce heat, add butter and aromatics. Baste the steak with the melted butter for 4 minutes. Remove from the pan. Allow steak to rest for 10 minutes before cutting it into thin pieces.
- Toast ciabatta bread in the same pan you caramelized the onions.
- Remove bread from the pan and spread a creole mustard on one loaf or both. Layer steak and pepper jack cheese. Pop the sandwich in the oven until the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- In a small bowl, toss arugula and Italian dressing together. Layer on the free piece of bread the arugula salad. Add caramelized onions on top of the cheese and then the chimichurri.
- Use a knife to close the sandwich. Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy!
Did you make it?
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