Steak & Cheese Showdown sounds like an epic sandwich loaded with juicy steak, melted cheese, and all the delicious toppings that make a classic steak sandwich irresistible. Here’s a recipe that’s sure to give you that perfect showdown of flavor:
Steak & Cheese Showdown Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Bread: 2 hoagie rolls or sub rolls (soft but sturdy for the hearty filling)
- Steak: 8 oz ribeye or sirloin steak (sliced thinly against the grain)
- Cheese: 2 slices of provolone cheese or cheddar cheese (or even American cheese for meltiness)
- Onions: 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin
- Bell peppers: 1-2 green bell peppers (or red peppers), sliced thin
- Mushrooms: 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (optional, for extra flavor)
- Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Olive oil: for cooking
- Butter: for toasting the bread
- Salt & pepper: to taste
- Worcestershire sauce: 1-2 teaspoons (optional, for extra umami flavor)
- Horseradish sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon (for creaminess, optional)
- Lettuce: a handful of shredded lettuce (for crunch)
- Tomato: 2-3 slices of tomato (optional, for freshness)
- Pickles: few slices of dill pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Steak:
- Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until it’s browned on the outside but still tender and juicy inside. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using) over medium heat until they’re softened and caramelized, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Optionally, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor.
3. Toast the Bread:
- While the veggies are cooking, butter the inside of your hoagie rolls.
- Toast the rolls on a skillet or in the oven until golden and crispy.
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread mayonnaise (or horseradish sauce) on the bottom half of each toasted roll for extra creaminess or a spicy kick.
- Layer the sliced steak on the bottom half of the roll.
- Add the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms on top of the steak.
- Place the cheese slices over the hot steak and veggies, and let it melt slightly, either by closing the sandwich and pressing it or placing it under the broiler for a minute.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Top with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and a few pickles (if desired).
- Close the sandwich and slice it in half.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad.
- Condiments: You can add extra hot sauce or ketchup on the side for dipping.
- Beverage: Pair it with a cold beer, soda, or a refreshing lemonade.
Tips:
- Steak Variations: You can swap the ribeye or sirloin for a more budget-friendly cut like flank steak or skirt steak, though you’ll need to marinate it for tenderness.
- Cheese Options: If you want a meltier, more indulgent sandwich, go for American cheese or mozzarella.
- Extra Toppings: Feel free to add avocado slices, jalapeños, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for a flavor twist.
The Steak & Cheese Showdown is a hearty, indulgent sandwich that combines juicy steak with gooey cheese, sautéed veggies, and your choice of sauces and toppings. It’s perfect for a filling lunch or dinner that will satisfy your cravings. Enjoy this flavorful showdown of textures and tastes! Let me know if you’d like to customize it further!
