If you are on the hunt for a mouthwatering and hearty meal that combines rich flavors with a satisfying crunch, this Steak Sandwich Recipe is an absolute winner. With juicy, tender steak slices perfectly seasoned and balanced by caramelized onions, creamy Havarti cheese, and a delicate herb butter spread, every bite delivers an explosion of taste and texture. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or a special dinner, this sandwich is comfort food elevated to something truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Steak Sandwich Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture, from the softness of the butter to the smokiness of seared steak, resulting in a sandwich that’s both straightforward to make and richly satisfying.

Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Creates a luscious base for the herb butter that adds creamy richness to the bread.
Fresh Dill (1 tbsp, diced): Adds a fresh, slightly tangy herbal note that brightens the flavors.
Garlic Cloves (3, crushed): Infuses the butter with aromatic depth and a little punch.
Oil (1 tbsp): Used for high-heat cooking to achieve that perfect steak sear without burning.
Steak (1 lb): The star of the sandwich, providing juicy, flavorful protein when cooked just right.
Salt (1 tbsp, adjust to taste): Essential for seasoning the steak and balancing all the flavors.
Yellow Onion (1 large, sliced into half rings): Caramelizes to a sweet, tender finish that complements the savory steak beautifully.
Havarti Cheese (4 slices): Melts smoothly with a mild, buttery flavor, perfect for topping the steak and onions.
Baguette (1): Crispy on the outside and soft inside, ideal for holding all the delicious fillings together.

How to Make Steak Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Butter

Start by combining your softened unsalted butter with the crushed garlic and diced fresh dill. Mix everything thoroughly until it transforms into a smooth, evenly flavored herb butter. This little spread will infuse the bread with a subtle garlicky and herbal richness that lifts every bite of your sandwich.

Step 2: Slice and Season the Steak

For the best results when slicing your steak, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes to firm it up—this makes thin, even cuts easier and safer. Once sliced into strips, season generously with salt to bring out the natural flavors of the beef before cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Heat a skillet with a splash of oil over high heat until it’s shimmering hot. Add the steak strips and let them sear just until they’re beautifully golden but still juicy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a perfect crust forms on each bite. Once done, transfer the steak to a plate and set aside while you prepare the onions.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

In the same skillet, toss in your sliced onions and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The natural sugars in the onion will slowly caramelize, turning the rings soft, sweet, and irresistibly golden brown. This step adds an important layer of sweetness and texture to your sandwich.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

Slice your baguette lengthwise and generously spread the herb butter on both halves. Layer on the tender steak strips, followed by the caramelized onions, and finish with the creamy Havarti cheese slices to create a perfect balance of flavors. Keep the sandwich open-faced for the next step.

Step 6: Broil to Perfection

Place the open sandwich under the broiler for about 2 minutes or until the Havarti cheese bubbles and melts beautifully over the steak and onions. Keep an eye on it so the bread doesn’t burn! This finishing touch warms everything through and makes the cheese irresistibly gooey.

Step 7: Serve While Warm

Once broiled, the Steak Sandwich Recipe is ready to be enjoyed immediately. The combination of hot melted cheese, savory steak, sweet onions, and herb-tainted bread is best devoured fresh for maximum flavor and texture pleasure.

How to Serve Steak Sandwich Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh garnishes can elevate your sandwich even more. Consider a handful of peppery arugula or a few slices of ripe tomato to bring freshness. A light drizzle of Dijon mustard or a smear of horseradish sauce can add a delightful zing that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Steak sandwiches pair wonderfully with classic sides like crispy French fries or a crisp green salad to balance all the richness. For something a bit lighter, roasted vegetables or a tangy pickle are great choices to complement the bold flavors without overwhelming them.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or want to impress, slice the sandwich diagonally and secure with a colorful toothpick or small skewer to keep layers intact. Serving on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of sauces or dips makes for a casual, inviting meal display that’s sure to get everyone’s taste buds excited.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, wrap your sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 1 to 2 days to maintain freshness, though the bread may soften a bit overnight.

Freezing

While the sandwich tastes best fresh, you can freeze the cooked steak strips and caramelized onions separately in airtight containers for up to a month. Avoid freezing the assembled sandwich as the bread and cheese won’t retain their texture well after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap the sandwich and place it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese starts to melt again. This method helps preserve the crispness of the bread while heating the filling evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this Steak Sandwich Recipe?

Absolutely! While Havarti melts wonderfully and adds a buttery flavor, cheeses like provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella make great alternatives depending on your taste preferences.

What cut of steak is best for this sandwich?

Thinly sliced ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work best because they’re tender and cook quickly. If using a tougher cut, consider marinating or cooking it a bit longer to ensure tenderness.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the regular baguette for a gluten-free bread option. Make sure to check all other ingredients for gluten to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I prepare any elements of this Sandwich Recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can make the herb butter and caramelize the onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and broil the sandwich right before eating for the best freshness.

What can I do if I don’t have a broiler?

If you don’t have a broiler, you can place the assembled sandwich in a hot oven (around 400°F or 200°C) for a few minutes or use a grill pan to melt the cheese. Just watch carefully to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Steak Sandwich Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because of its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and the straightforward way it comes together. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients, and enjoy making a truly unforgettable sandwich.

Steak Sandwich Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 5 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

Print Recipe

Description

This flavorful Steak Sandwich features tender, juicy strips of steak seasoned and seared to perfection, layered with caramelized onions and creamy Havarti cheese on a buttered baguette. The herb-infused butter with fresh dill and garlic adds a rich and aromatic touch, making it an irresistible and hearty sandwich perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Herb Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tbsp fresh dill, diced
3 garlic cloves, crushed

Steak and Toppings

1 lb steak
1 tbsp oil
1 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 large yellow onion, sliced into half rings
4 slices Havarti cheese
1 baguette, sliced lengthwise

Instructions

Prepare Herb Butter: Combine the softened unsalted butter with crushed garlic cloves and diced fresh dill. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and the butter mixture is smooth. Set aside for spreading on the bread.
Slice Steak: Place the steak in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up, then slice it into thin strips across the grain. This will make the beef easier to cook quickly and chew tenderly.
Cook Steak: Heat a skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the steak strips and season generously with salt. Cook the meat until it is just golden on the outside, indicating it is cooked through but still juicy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Onions: Using the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté over medium heat until they are soft and caramelized to a golden brown color. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble Sandwich: Slice the baguette lengthwise and spread the prepared herb butter evenly on both sides. Layer the cooked steak strips across the bottom half, followed by the caramelized onions. Top everything with slices of Havarti cheese.
Broil Sandwich: Keep the sandwich open-faced and place it under the broiler for about 2 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve: Remove from the broiler and serve the sandwich immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Freezing the steak briefly before slicing makes it easier to cut into thin strips.
Adjust the salt to taste depending on the saltiness of the cheese or butter used.
Use high heat to quickly sear the steak and preserve juiciness.
For a spicier version, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the herb butter.
Make sure to watch the sandwich closely when broiling, as cheese can quickly burn.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Searing, sautéing, broiling
Cuisine: American