Save
Steak Sandwich with garlic aioli is my answer when everyone wants a meal that feels special but does not take all night to prepare. The juicy steak, sweet onions, melty cheese, and punchy homemade aioli create a sandwich you will crave all week.
I first made this steak sandwich on a busy weekday evening and even my pickiest eater was asking for seconds. Now it is on regular rotation when we want something a notch above the usual.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: gives the aioli its creamy base so choose a high quality brand for the best flavor
- Fresh garlic: packs a punch and a little goes a long way watch for firm cloves without sprouting
- Lemon juice: brightens up the aioli and adds freshness use juice from a just cut lemon
- Salt: helps balance flavors in both the aioli and steak opt for kosher for easy measuring
- Skirt steak: delivers tender juicy results and soaks up marinades quickly look for nicely marbled pieces
- Brown sugar: brings out the steak’s natural flavors and balances the vinegar
- Balsamic vinegar: gives the steak a deep caramelized tang aged vinegar is best
- Vegetable oil: helps everything coat evenly and prevents sticking
- Unsalted butter: is key for caramelizing onions and adding richness use real butter here
- Large onions: are essential for sweet savory topping pick ones that feel heavy for their size
- Hoagie rolls: are sturdy enough to hold all the filling pick soft inside rolls for best results
- Provolone cheese: melts beautifully and adds creamy flavor use deli slices for easy assembly
- Arugula: brings a peppery freshness and cuts through the richness buy a vibrant green bunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Garlic Aioli:
- In a medium mixing bowl stir together mayonnaise minced garlic lemon juice and salt until fully combined and creamy This can be made ahead and chilled to let the flavors develop
- Marinate the Steak:
- Place your skirt steak in a large bowl Add brown sugar balsamic vinegar vegetable oil salt and pepper Toss everything very well so each piece is well coated Let the steak sit while you prepare the onions
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat Add the butter and then the sliced onions Stir frequently and cook for 10 to 12 minutes You want them deeply golden and sweet but not burned Remove them from the skillet and set aside
- Cook the Steak:
- Increase the heat to high Let any extra marinade drip off each steak piece before placing it in the skillet Sear each side for roughly 3 to 4 minutes depending on thickness The goal is a good crust without overcooking Let the steak rest for 5 minutes then slice it thinly against the grain for tenderness
- Toast the Hoagie Rolls:
- Brush the inside of each hoagie roll with melted butter Place them cut side down on a hot griddle or pan Toast for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli on each toasted hoagie Add Provolone cheese then pile on arugula Follow with steak slices and caramelized onions pressing gently to help everything hold together
Save
My favorite ingredient is the balsamic vinegar in the marinade It adds sweet tangy depth and takes the whole sandwich up a level The first time we used it my kitchen smelled so good my kids came running in before dinner was even ready
Storage Tips
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days For best results reheat the steak and onions separately in a skillet before reassembling so your bread stays crisp You can also freeze extra cooked steak and onions in airtight containers for a future quick dinner
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find skirt steak try flank steak or even thinly sliced sirloin Provolone can be swapped for Swiss or mozzarella if preferred Arugula gives the best peppery bite but baby spinach will work for a milder flavor For the aioli regular mayonnaise works but you can try Greek yogurt for a lighter version
Save
Serving Suggestions
Pair these steak sandwiches with crispy oven fries sweet potato chips or a fresh green salad for a complete meal They are a showstopper for casual dinner parties or game night When I serve these with lemonade and pickles it feels just like summertime at my grandparent’s house
Cultural Context
Steak sandwiches are rooted in the tradition of American diners and steakhouses where comfort food meets no frills flavor The homemade aioli puts a gourmet spin on classic steak and cheese This recipe celebrates the generous flavors of grilled meat and simple ingredients at their best
Recipe Questions
- → How do I get tender steak for sandwiches?
Marinate the steak in brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings, then sear quickly and slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- → What type of cheese pairs well with steak sandwiches?
Provolone melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the rich steak and aioli without overpowering them.
- → Can I make garlic aioli ahead of time?
Yes, simply mix the mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and salt in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.
- → How do I caramelize onions properly?
Cook sliced onions in butter over medium heat, stirring regularly for about 10-12 minutes until deeply golden and sweet.
- → What’s the best bread for a steak sandwich?
Sturdy rolls like hoagies are ideal—toast them for extra texture and to hold all the flavorful fillings.