Steak Sandwiches: Best Cheeses To Compliment The Meat

A steak sandwich is a delicious meal, but what type of cheese should you use? There are many options to choose from, including Swiss, provolone, cheddar, American, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, white cheddar, fontina, gouda, and brie. It all depends on your personal preference! For a classic Philly Cheesesteak, the most popular choice is mild provolone, but some also prefer white American cheese or Cheez Whiz.

The best cheese for steak sandwiches

Other factors to consider when choosing the best cheese for a steak sandwich include the type of bread, toppings, and sides. For example, a softer cheese like provolone or American might work better with a heartier roll, while a sharper cheese like cheddar could pair well with a lighter bread. If you're looking for a keto-friendly option, you could skip the bread altogether and serve the steak and cheese filling over cooked vegetables.

Some creative ways to serve steak and cheese sandwiches include:

• Sliders
• Stuffed bell peppers
• Stuffed Portobello mushrooms
• Over cooked pasta

No matter which cheese you choose, the key to a great steak sandwich is to use quality ingredients and to cook the steak to your desired doneness. Don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings and sides, and most importantly, enjoy!

How to prepare steak for a sandwich

Choosing the Right Steak

The most tender cut of steak for a sandwich is the ribeye. However, it can be quite pricey. Good alternatives are:

• Top Sirloin: This cut is a bit tougher than ribeye, but when cooked properly it is tender and juicy.
• Skirt Steak: Skirt steak is usually sold in larger quantities, so it is great for feeding large crowds. It is also tender when marinated well.
• NY Strip: This cut has a little less marbling than a ribeye, but it is still considered a choice cut. It is super tender and perfect for slicing.

Tenderising the Steak

The best way to tenderise a steak is to use a tenderising hammer. Place the steak on a wooden chopping board and, using the textured side of the hammer, pound the steak until it is nice and thin. You could also use a marinade that includes acidic ingredients to break down any connective tissue.

Slicing the steak

To make slicing easier, freeze the steak for a few minutes before slicing it. Then, slice the steak into thin strips.

Cooking the Steak

Remove the steak from its packaging and let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking. Preheat your griddle or frying pan until very hot. Season the steak with salt right before adding it to the pan. Place some butter in the pan and add the steak. Cook for around 1 minute on each side for medium-rare, or 1.5 minutes for well-done. Allow the meat to rest on a warm plate for 2 minutes before serving.

Assembling the Sandwich

Slice a baguette in half lengthwise and spread herb butter over both sides of the bread. Follow with slices of steak, onion, and cheese. Keep the sandwich open and broil for about 2 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Serve right away, while it's still warm.

What to serve with steak sandwiches

Steak sandwiches are a hearty meal, and there are plenty of sides to serve with them. If you're looking for something to accompany your steak sandwich, here are some ideas:

• Fries: Whether it's classic French Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, or Sweet Potato Wedges, they make a great side to steak sandwiches. You can also try making them in an air fryer for a healthier option.
• Salad: A fresh salad can complement the richness of the sandwich. Try a Caesar Salad, a Green Goddess Salad, or a Grilled Corn Salad.
• Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy side dish, coleslaw is a perfect match for steak sandwiches.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy Potato Wedges are a delicious and satisfying side.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Air Fryer Asparagus, or Grilled Potatoes for a healthy and tasty option.
• Chips: Air Fryer Potato Chips offer a lighter option without sacrificing crunch.
• Soup: A warm bowl of soup, such as Cauliflower or Zucchini Soup, can be a comforting pairing.
• Pickles: A tangy Pickled Cabbage Salad can cut through the richness of the sandwich.
• Sandwich Toppings: Get creative and use toppings like peppers, onions, or mushrooms as sides.

How to store and reheat steak sandwiches

A steak sandwich is a delicious meal, but what happens when you can't finish it all in one sitting? Well, you can store and reheat it, of course! Here's a guide on how to do it right:

Storing Your Steak Sandwich:

Firstly, it's important to note that you should store your steak sandwich within two hours of cooking or buying it. If you're storing leftovers, transfer your sandwich into an appropriate container. Wrap your sandwich tightly in aluminium foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also use an airtight container or a freezer bag. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents.

Refrigerating:

Steak sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place the wrapped sandwich on a shelf in the refrigerator, ensuring it's not placed near raw foods like meat or fish.

Freezing:

If you want to store your steak sandwich for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the sandwich tightly in aluminium foil and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. Label the package with the date and contents. Steak sandwiches can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 weeks.

Reheating Your Steak Sandwich:

Now for the fun part—bringing your sandwich back to life! There are a few methods you can use, depending on your equipment and preferences:

Oven Method:

Preheat your oven to 325°F to 350°F (160°C to 175°C). Place your wrapped sandwich on a baking sheet and put it in the oven. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps retain flavour and prevents sogginess.

Stovetop Method:

If you're in a hurry, the stovetop method is a great option. Prepare a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking. Place your wrapped sandwich in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until thoroughly heated.

Microwave Method:

For those short on time, the microwave is an option, but it might affect the texture of your sandwich. Place your sandwich on a microwave-safe plate, removing any metal skewers or foil wraps. Cover it with a microwave-safe plate or lid to prevent splatters. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically to avoid overheating.

Final Touches:

Once your sandwich is heated through, it's time to assemble! Carefully unwrap your sandwich and add any desired toppings or condiments. Serve it with a side of crispy fries or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

So, there you have it! Now you know how to store and reheat your steak sandwich like a pro. Enjoy your delicious, hot sandwich!

Creative ways to serve steak sandwiches

There are many creative ways to serve steak sandwiches, especially Philly Cheesesteaks. Here are some ideas:

Overcooked Pasta

You can serve the beefy, cheesy filling of a Philly Cheesesteak over cooked pasta. This is a great way to use up leftover pasta and create a delicious, comforting meal.

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

For a fun and bite-sized option, serve your Philly Cheesesteak as sliders. Simply use smaller rolls and adjust the portion size accordingly. These would be perfect for a party or gathering.

Low Carb) Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Bell Peppers

For a low-carb option, stuff the Philly Cheesesteak filling into bell peppers. This idea adds a crunchy texture and a vibrant, colourful presentation to your dish.

Low Carb) Stuffed into Portobello Mushrooms

Another low-carb option is to stuff the Philly Cheesesteak filling into Portobello mushrooms. This idea adds an earthy flavour and a unique presentation to your dish.

With a Variety of Cheeses

Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favourite. Popular options include provolone, Swiss, cheddar, American, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, white cheddar, fontina, or smoked gouda.

With Different Types of Bread

Try using different types of bread to find your favourite combination. Some options include baguette, hoagie rolls, ciabatta, focaccia, pretzel buns, or French rolls.

With Sides and Toppings

Elevate your steak sandwich by serving it with delicious sides and toppings. Here are some ideas:

• Air Fryer Fries
• Pickled Cabbage Salad
• Caesar Salad
• Crispy Potato Wedges
• Homemade French Fries
• Homemade Coleslaw
• Broccoli Salad with Bacon
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Air Fryer Asparagus
• Grilled Potatoes
• Air Fryer Potato Chips
• Burrata Salad
• Grilled Corn Salad
• Green Goddess Salad

Frequently asked questions