Got leftover steak from last night? Let’s turn it into something spectacular—a steak sandwich that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. There’s something so satisfying about repurposing leftovers into a dish that feels brand new, and this recipe does just that. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or even a game-day treat.
We love how this sandwich combines tender slices of steak with fresh toppings and a crusty roll that soaks up all the delicious juices. It’s a great way to avoid food waste while indulging in a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Whether you’re working with ribeye, sirloin, or filet, this recipe is versatile enough to make the most of whatever steak you’ve got.
Steak Sandwich Recipe With Leftover Steak
Transforming leftover steak into a mouthwatering sandwich is surprisingly simple and packed with flavor. Here’s our step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect steak sandwich using what’s already in your fridge.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz leftover steak, thinly sliced
- 2 crusty sandwich rolls or French bread, split and lightly toasted
- 1/2 cup sautéed onions (optional: caramelized for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 cup fresh arugula or baby spinach
- 2-3 slices of cheese (Provolone, Swiss, or Cheddar work great)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the steak: Slice the leftover steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. If it’s cold, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Heat the steak: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the steak slices and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Avoid overcooking to maintain the steak’s juiciness.
- Toast the rolls: Lightly toast the sandwich rolls on a skillet or in a toaster oven until golden brown. This adds a wonderful crunch and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Mix the spread: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread generously on the cut sides of the toasted sandwich rolls.
- Assemble the sandwich: Layer sautéed onions on the bottom half of the roll, followed by the warmed steak slices. Place the cheese slices on top of the steak and allow them to melt slightly.
- Add fresh greens: Place a handful of arugula or spinach on top of the cheese for a fresh, peppery bite.
- Close and serve: Press the sandwich together gently. Slice in half for easy handling and serve while warm.
Pro Tips
- Cheese melting shortcut: Cover the pan briefly while adding the cheese to the steak to help it melt evenly.
- Add texture: Enhance the sandwich with extra toppings like pickled red onions, roasted red peppers, or a dash of hot sauce.
Nutritional Information
| Component | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~35g |
| Fat | ~20g |
This recipe is a flavorful way to reuse your leftover steak while enjoying a hearty meal that feels fresh and indulgent.
Ingredients
To craft the ultimate steak sandwich using leftover steak, we’ll need a combination of fresh, flavorful, and easily accessible ingredients. Here’s everything we’ll need for this recipe:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz leftover steak, thinly sliced (ribeye, sirloin, or filet work best)
- 2 crusty sandwich rolls (such as ciabatta or baguette), sliced lengthwise
- 1 cup baby arugula or mixed greens, rinsed and dried
- 4 slices Provolone cheese or any melty cheese of choice
Flavor-Boosting Toppings:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing onions)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ons:
- 1 tomato, thinly sliced
- ½ avocado, sliced
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce, for heat lovers
Ingredient Notes:
- For the cheese, Provolone offers a creamy, mild flavor, but you can swap it for cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella if you prefer.
- The choice of roll significantly impacts the sandwich’s texture. We recommend hearty rolls like ciabatta or baguette since they hold the juices well and add a perfect crunch.
- Any leftover steak will work, but tender cuts like ribeye or filet ensure the best bite. Adjust seasonings slightly if the steak was heavily seasoned previously.
Tools And Equipment
To make the perfect steak sandwich, we need the right tools to ensure precision and ease during preparation. Below is a list of essential tools and equipment you’ll need for this recipe to come together effortlessly and deliver a professional-quality sandwich:
Essential Tools
- Cutting Board – Use a sturdy surface for slicing leftover steak and prepping toppings like onions and greens.
- Chef’s Knife – A sharp knife is key to thinly slicing the leftover steak and vegetables.
- Nonstick Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan – Ideal for reheating the steak gently and sautéing onions or garlic in butter.
- Toaster Oven or Regular Oven – For perfectly toasted rolls. A broiler can work too for melting cheese.
- Spatula or Tongs – Helps handle the steak slices and sautéed ingredients with ease.
- Pastry Brush (Optional) – For brushing olive oil or a light butter layer on the rolls before toasting.
- Mixing Bowl – Use to prepare any spreads or sauces like a garlic mayo blend.
Additional Kitchen Gear
- Grater (if using DIY shredded cheese instead of pre-sliced Provolone or other cheeses).
- Measuring Spoons – For precise seasoning if needed (like Worcestershire sauce or spices).
- Serving Plate or Platter – To assemble the sandwich neatly without mess.
Equipment At A Glance
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board | For chopping steak, toppings, and ingredients safely. |
| Chef’s Knife | For slicing steak into thin, even pieces for the sandwich. |
| Nonstick Skillet | For reheating steak slices and caramelizing onions. |
| Toasting Device | For achieving a golden crust on sandwich rolls. |
| Spatula or Tongs | For flipping and handling heated ingredients. |
| Mixing Bowl | For preparing spreads or additional sauces. |
Directions
Get ready to create the ultimate steak sandwich by following these detailed steps. Let’s transform our leftover steak into a mouthwatering, hearty sandwich that everyone will love.
Prep
- Slice the leftover steak into thin, even strips (about 1/4-inch thick) for even reheating and easier sandwich assembly.
- Gather all ingredients and prepare the kitchen tools—place a skillet, toaster, cutting board, knife, and spatula within easy reach.
- Preheat the skillet over medium heat to get it ready for the steak and toppings.
Make The Steak Filling
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet.
- Add the sliced leftover steak and season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir to warm the steak without overcooking it—this will take about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for an added punch of umami flavor. Toss the steak to coat evenly.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Leftover steak | 8 oz (thinly sliced) |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp |
Move the steak to one side of the skillet. Add the sautéed onions (if using) and allow them to caramelize for an additional layer of flavor.
Prepare The Veggies And Condiments
- Chop baby arugula or mixed greens into bite-sized pieces if needed.
- Slice optional toppings such as tomato or avocado into thin, even pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 1 grated garlic clove for a tangy, flavorful spread. Set it aside.
| Topping and Condiment | Action |
|---|---|
| Baby arugula or mixed greens | Chop if needed |
| Tomato and avocado (optional) | Slice thinly |
| Mayonnaise + garlic | Mix and set aside |
Assemble The Sandwich
- Slice the crusty sandwich rolls in half horizontally. Spread the garlic mayo generously on both halves.
- Layer the bottom half of the roll with the heated steak slices. Add sautéed onions on top, followed by Provolone cheese slices.
- For extra toppings, stack arugula, tomato, and/or avocado slices over the cheese.
Tip: “Stack the ingredients strategically to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy. Place greens above the cheese to create a moisture barrier.”
Toast The Bread
- Preheat the toaster oven or place a clean skillet over medium-low heat.
- Place the fully assembled sandwich (open-faced) in the toaster oven or skillet. Allow it to toast for 2-3 minutes until the Provolone cheese melts and the bread becomes golden and crusty.
- Remove and press the top half of the roll onto the sandwich. Slice in half diagonally for easy serving.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying this steak sandwich to its fullest, the way we serve it can elevate the overall experience. Below, we’ve compiled a variety of serving ideas to complement the bold flavors of the sandwich and create a balanced meal.
1. Pair With Sides
Enhance the meal with sides that highlight the hearty and savory notes of the sandwich. Here are some ideal pairing suggestions:
- Classic Fries: Serve with crispy, golden French fries for a traditional and satisfying option.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Add a touch of sweetness to contrast with the savory steak.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Use fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing choice to balance the richness.
- Coleslaw: The creamy and tangy flavors of coleslaw serve as a great counterpoint to the sandwich.
2. Beverage Combinations
Pairing the right drink can enhance the dining experience. Consider these options:
| Beverage Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Iced Tea | A refreshing, slightly sweet option to complement the sandwich. |
| Craft Beer | A light ale or lager pairs well with the bold steak flavors. |
| Red Wine | A medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon adds a touch of elegance. |
| Sparkling Water | A bubbly and light alternative for a clean palate. |
3. Make It a Full Spread
Turn this into a meal worth sharing by serving the sandwich as part of a platter. Include:
- Pickles and olives for a tangy kick.
- A cheese board with complementary cheeses like sharp cheddar or smoked Gouda.
- Homemade chips seasoned with rosemary and sea salt for added crunch.
4. Serving for Different Occasions
This steak sandwich recipe is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for different occasions:
- For game day, cut the sandwich into smaller pieces and serve as sliders alongside a selection of condiments.
- For a weekday lunch, pack the sandwich with a green apple for a simple yet satisfying meal.
- On date night, present it elegantly cut in half and paired with a glass of wine for an upscale feel.
5. Present With Style
The way we serve the sandwich can make the meal feel extra special. Use these tips:
- Wrap in parchment paper for a rustic, casual presentation.
- Plate it with the cheese melted and bubbling, creating an appetizing visual.
- Garnish with a small handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
These thoughtful Serving Suggestions not only enhance flavors but also transform a simple meal into a memorable dining experience.
Make-Ahead Tips And Storage
When it comes to preparing and storing steak sandwiches, a little planning can help save time and make the process seamless. Let’s talk about how to make ahead, store leftovers, and keep everything fresh and delicious for later.
Preparing Components in Advance
To streamline the process, we can prepare various components ahead of time for quick assembly. Here are some tips:
- Slice the Steak: Thinly slice the leftover steak and store it in an airtight container. This not only ensures freshness but also makes it easy to reheat evenly. Before slicing, make sure the steak has been cooled to room temperature.
- Sauté the Onions: Cook the onions with butter or olive oil until golden and soft. Once cooled, store them in the fridge in a sealed container.
- Prepare the Spread: Mix any spreads or sauces, such as garlic mayo or a Worcestershire aioli, in advance. Keep them refrigerated in a small jar or container.
- Toast the Rolls: If you’re short on time, toast the rolls ahead. Wrap them in foil after cooling completely to retain their texture.
By preparing these components, you’ll cut down on time needed the day you serve the sandwiches.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Proper storage ensures that your sandwich remains flavorful and fresh. Here’s how we tackle this:
- Leftover Steak Storage: Store sliced steak in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent oxidation. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to a month. For freezing, we recommend placing the slices in a freezer-safe bag and removing the air.
- Refrigerating Sandwich Components: Keep sautéed onions, spreads, and any additional toppings separately in sealed containers. Ensure fresh greens like arugula are dried completely before storing so they don’t wilt prematurely.
- Fully Assembled Sandwiches: If you have leftover assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in parchment paper or foil to prevent them from drying out. Refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat carefully to avoid soggy bread.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating the sandwich or its components can be done efficiently without losing flavor or texture. Here’s a quick guide:
| Component | Reheating Method | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Sliced Steak | Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat; add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. | 2-3 minutes |
| Sautéed Onions | Microwave in 15-second increments or reheat in a small skillet. | 1-2 minutes |
| Toasted Rolls | Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or a toaster oven. | 3-5 minutes |
| Assembled Sandwich | Wrap in foil and reheat in a 325°F (165°C) oven to preserve its structure and melt the cheese. | 10-12 minutes |
Freezing Tips
If you’d like to freeze components for long-term storage:
- Wrap sliced steak in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn.
- Store sautéed onions and spreads in small freezer-safe containers. Defrost them in the refrigerator overnight.
- Avoid freezing greens as they lose their crisp texture upon thawing.
Planning ahead and storing properly allows us to enjoy this hearty steak sandwich again and again without fuss.
Conclusion
Transforming leftover steak into a mouthwatering steak sandwich is a simple yet satisfying way to elevate your mealtime. With the right combination of fresh ingredients, flavorful toppings, and a little preparation, this recipe turns leftovers into a gourmet experience.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a shareable snack, this steak sandwich delivers on taste, texture, and versatility. It’s a delicious reminder that even the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of steak works best for a steak sandwich?
Tender cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet work best for steak sandwiches. These cuts are flavorful and remain juicy when reheated, ensuring a delicious experience.
What is the ideal bread for a steak sandwich?
Crusty sandwich rolls, such as ciabatta or baguette, are ideal. They provide structure to hold the fillings and absorb the flavorful juices without becoming soggy.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes, you can slice the steak, sauté onions, and prepare spreads ahead of time. Store everything properly in the fridge to save time during assembly.
How should I store leftover steak sandwiches?
Store components separately for freshness. Wrap sliced steak and sautéed onions in airtight containers, and refrigerate assembled sandwiches in parchment paper to keep them from drying out.
What’s the best way to reheat steak sandwiches?
Reheat steak in a nonstick skillet or microwave on low heat. Toast the bread lightly before assembling to maintain its texture and flavor.
What are good side dishes to pair with steak sandwiches?
Side options include classic fries, sweet potato fries, mixed greens, coleslaw, or chips. These complement the sandwich without overshadowing its flavors.
Can steak sandwiches be frozen?
Yes, wrap them tightly in foil or use freezer bags for storage. Ensure that toppings like fresh greens or spreads are added fresh after reheating for the best quality.
What cheese works best in a steak sandwich?
Provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar are great options. They melt beautifully and enhance the sandwich’s richness without overpowering the flavors.
What spreads can I use for added flavor?
Mayonnaise, garlic aioli, or a mix of Worcestershire sauce and butter are excellent spreads that add depth and flavor to the sandwich.
Can steak sandwiches be served on special occasions?
Absolutely! Slice them into sliders for game day or plate them elegantly with garnishes for date night. Steak sandwiches are versatile and perfect for many occasions.