Let’s dive into the wonderful world of the Open Face Steak Sandwich Recipe. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s a great main course that is also shown in our beef and sandwiches categories.
Imagine tender, perfectly cooked steak, savory caramelized onions, and gooey provolone cheese, all piled high on a sub roll or French Bread. Sounds amazing, right? We’re going to walk through how to make this Southern masterpiece that’s both speedy and incredibly tasty.
Open Face Steak Sandwich Recipe
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Ingredients
- 2 each sub rolls
- 3 Tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 3 Tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking onions
- 3 medium onions
- 1 lb Steak diced, cooked or raw; ribeye or other beef
- ⅔ teaspoons salt or seasoned salt
- ⅔ teaspoons ground black pepper
- 2 Tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking steak
- 8 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Cut open each sub roll into halves and place onto ungreased baking sheet. Then, add butter slices and sprinkle garlic powder across each.2 each sub rolls, 3 Tablespoon butter, 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

- Peel the onions and separate into rings.3 medium onions

- In a skillet or frying pan, on medium, heat up the oil. Then, toss in the onions to coat and cook for about 3 minutes. For the next 7 minutes, cover and stir occasionally or until softened and partially browned.3 Tablespoon vegetable oil, 3 medium onions

- Add in the diced steak, salt, pepper, and oil. Stir to coat and cook steak well, usually for about 7-10 minutes. For leftover, cooked steak, it's about 5 minutes to get reheated.1 lb Steak, ⅔ teaspoons salt, ⅔ teaspoons ground black pepper, 2 Tablespoon vegetable oil

- Add the cooked steak & onions mixture across the prepared sub roll halves.

- Tear up 2 provolone slices to cover each sub roll half.8 slices provolone cheese

- Broil at 500 °F on middle shelf until cheese is melted and partially browned, usually about 3-5 minutes. Use a spatula to serve.

Nutrition
Table of Contents
What Makes an Open Face Steak Sandwich So Darn Good?
So, what exactly defines an open face steak sandwich? Well, it’s all about showcasing that delicious, sliced grilled steak right on top of your bread. You’ll often find it paired with classic ingredients like those sweet caramelized onions, maybe some sautéed mushrooms, and of course, a generous layer of cheese like provolone. It’s a steak recipe that just screams comfort!
What Exactly is an Open Face Steak Sandwich?
So, what’s the big deal with an open steak sandwich? Well, it’s pretty much what it sounds like. Instead of having two pieces of bread, you’ve got one glorious, sturdy piece acting as a delicious foundation for all your amazing toppings. This means you can pile on more goodness without worrying about it all squishing out. It’s truly a fantastic steak recipe!
Key Characteristics of an Open Face Steak Sandwich
Think of it as a deconstructed open steak sandwich, giving you a perfect view of all the yummy layers. You’ll often find beautifully sliced grilled steak, often a juicy Ribeye Steak or even a hearty Chuck Roast, served on crusty bread like French bread or baguette. Then, it’s topped with delightful additions like sweet caramelized onions, tender sautéed mushrooms, and creamy cheeses. We’re talking Boursin, Havarti Cheese, or even a simple provolone. It’s a feast for your eyes and your taste buds! This Open Faced Steak Sandwich is perfect for an easy dinner idea or even a party appetizer.
Main Ingredients and Tasty Variations

For a truly epic open face steak sandwich recipe, you want to start with the best beef. We’re talking about a beautiful ribeye steak or even a hearty chuck roast. Many folks swear by Certified Angus Beef for that unbeatable flavor and tenderness. Personally, I typically use ribeye. But don’t stop there! Your foundation could be a crusty French baguette, a soft sub roll, or even regular Italian bread. Then, load it up with garlic, those amazing caramelized onions, and maybe some more spices like Italian seasonings.
Cooking Methods for Perfect Open Steak Sandwich Every Time

Getting that perfect seared steak is key for this open steak sandwich recipe. You can sear your steak on a charcoal grill, in a trusty cast iron pan, or even on a griddle insert for that all-over crust. The trick is to sear all sides of your steak until it reaches your desired internal temperature, like medium rare steak, then let that meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. For more on this, read the MasterClass article on “How to Cook Ribeye Steak: Perfect Pan-Seared Juicy Ribeye Steak Recipe“.
And for those caramelized onions? Low and slow is the way to go, taking about 15-45 minutes (longer is better but, not absolutely needed here) to get them perfectly melded in flavor.
Serving Up Your Open Steak Sandwich Masterpiece
This open face steak sandwich recipe is fantastic as a main dish, but it also makes an incredible steak appetizer or party finger food. Just slice up your finished open face steak sandwiches into 6 pieces for each main bread section. It’s truly a summer recipe superstar!
Boost That Flavor: Enhancements and Add-Ons
Ready to make your open face steak sandwich recipe unforgettable? Think about adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, or just cayenne pepper, for a subtle kick. And don’t forget the cheese options! Beyond provolone, you could try a creamy Alouette or President garlic spreadable cheese. For an alternative idea, here’s “An Open-Face Steak Sandwich on Garlic Toast Recipe” by EatThis.com. It uses Swiss cheese, tomatoes, and served on a Ciabatta roll.
Tips for Timing and Preparation
While this recipe is speedy, a little planning goes a long way. You’ll want to set aside about 15-20 minutes for prep, especially if you’re slicing your own steak. Getting the timing right for each component ensures everything comes together beautifully for your skillet or griddle cooking adventure.
Cooking Methods and Essential Equipment
Getting that perfect beef steak for your open faced steak meal is key, and there are a few ways to do it right. Many top chefs, swear by searing steak on a grill, or using a cast iron skillet or even a griddle insert. Whether you’re using a Weber gas grill or doing some Cast Iron Cooking on your stovetop, the goal is to sear all sides of the steak beautifully. Remember to rest your meat before slicing, that’s crucial for a juicy steak! And don’t forget to caramelize those onions; it takes about 15-45 minutes, but the flavor is absolutely worth it for your steak sandwich toppings.
Main Ingredients for Your Open Steak Sandwich
Alright, let’s get down to business! You’re probably wondering what magic ingredients we need for this open face steak sandwich recipe, right? Well, good news! We’re keeping it super straightforward, but don’t think for a second that means we’re skimping on flavor. This is a darn good recipe, after all!
Your Essential Shopping List for Open Face Steak Sandwich Recipe
Here’s what you’ll want to grab from the store to make this amazing steak recipe a reality:
- 2 sub rolls (or French bread / baguette, if you’re feeling fancy!)
- 3 Tablespoons butter1 teaspoon garlic powder3 Tablespoons vegetable oil (for those glorious caramelized onions) 3 medium onions 1 lb steak, diced (a beautiful ribeye steak or even a chuck roast works wonders here) ⅔ teaspoons salt or seasoned salt (we love a good steak seasoning!) ⅔ teaspoons ground black pepper 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking your steak)
- 8 slices provolone cheese (but hey, sometimes a Boursin cheese or even Alouette garlic spreadable cheese hits different!)
“The beauty of an open face sandwich is its versatility. You can stick to the classics or get creative with your favorite, tasty toppings!”
Cooking Up Your Darn Good Grilled Steak Sandwich Recipe

Alright, let’s get our cook on! Making a truly amazing grilled steak sandwich recipe is all about nailing that steak and those onions. You want that perfect seared steak, right? That’s where all those juices get locked in, making every bite super tender. I’m a big fan of my cast iron skillet for getting that beautiful crust, but a griddle insert on your charcoal or gas grill works wonders too, especially if you’re aiming for that Southern vibe. You can get fantastic results with any Weber grill! Or, even use leftover grilled marinated steaks.
Mastering Your Steak and Onions
For those sweet, savory caramelized onions, a skillet on medium heat is your best friend. They’ll slowly transform into those lovely, golden beauties we all adore. Don’t forget to cover them for a bit to help them soften up, stirring occasionally, of course. And here’s a pro tip for your grilled steak: let your meat rest after cooking! This is absolutely crucial for juicy, tender slices, especially if you’re using a beautiful ribeye. We’re talking a few minutes to let those flavors settle in, and it really makes a difference for any steak recipe, whether it’s for a steak appetizer or a full dinner.
Steak and Onion Prep at a Glance for Your Steak Sandwich Recipe
So, you want to see how straightforward this steak sandwich recipe really is? Here’s a quick overview of the key steps for cooking your steak and onions. It’s all about getting those easy dinner ideas on the table without a fuss!
| Ingredient | Prep Method | Cooking Time | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sub Rolls | Cut open, butter, garlic powder | Broil 3-5 minutes | An ungreased baking sheet is definitely best! |
| Onions | Peeled Onions, separated into rings | 3 mins uncovered, 7 mins covered | Stir occasionally until softened for perfect caramelized onions! |
| Steak | Diced, seasoned with salt/pepper | 7-10 mins (raw), 5 mins (cooked) | Stir to coat and cook evenly for a perfectly seared steak. |
| Provolone Cheese | Tear slices to cover | Broil 3-5 minutes | Until melted and partially browned, that’s the good stuff! |
Whether you’re using a chuck roast or a gorgeous ribeye steak, this open face steak sandwich is going to be a hit. Don’t forget that griddle cooking or cast iron cooking really helps achieve that fantastic flavor, making it a great charcoal or gas grill recipe too.
Serving Up Your Darn Good Open Face Steak Sandwich

Alright, so your steak is a masterpiece and those onions are perfectly caramelized, right? Now comes the fun part: Serving! This open faced steak sandwich recipe makes serving super easy with any simple side like Checkers Fries, and trust me, you’ll feel like a pro.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Perfect for Any Occasion
This Open Faced Steak Sandwich isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! It’s typically served as a fantastic main dish, but it also makes an incredible party finger food or cocktail party food. You can cut it into smaller pieces, after it’s finished cooking and cooled down a bit. It’s truly a versatile steak appetizer.
The Grand Finale: Broiling and Presentation
Now for the magic touch! Pop those beauties under the broiler at 500 °F on the middle shelf. Keep a close eye on them, it usually only takes about 3-5 minutes for that cheese to melt into a bubbly, partially browned dream. You’re looking for that perfect golden hue, just like you’d see at your favorite Sports Bar and Grill!
Once they’re out, grab a spatula and serve them up. These easy dinner ideas are fantastic as a hearty main dish. But hey, if you’re hosting a get-together, why not cut them into smaller pieces? They make fantastic party finger food or cocktail party food, a real crowd-pleaser!
Customizing Your Steak Sandwich Recipe
Making this open faced steak sandwich recipe your own is half the fun! Maybe you prefer a different cut of steak, like a sirloin, or you want to try it on a French baguette instead of a sub roll. Griddle cooking is fantastic for getting that perfect sear on your steak, especially if you’re aiming for a medium rare steak. If you’re using a Weber grill, you know that smoky flavor will be incredible.
Consider the cheese too! While provolone is a classic, Havarti cheese or even a sharp cheddar can be amazing. This easy dinner idea is so versatile, perfect for summer recipes or a cozy night in. Don’t forget that resting meat after cooking is key for juicy results, no matter if you’re making a full steak recipe or just a quick steak sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Open Face Steak Sandwich
Alright, let’s get into some of the most common questions you might have about making your very own open face steak sandwich. You’ve got this, and I’m here to help!
What kind of steak is best for an open face steak sandwich?
For a truly amazing open faced steak sandwich, you really want a cut that’s going to be super tender and packed with flavor. Personally, I think a good ribeye steak is a top-notch choice. Why? Because it’s wonderfully marbled, and that means it’ll cook up juicy and delicious every single time. Certified Angus Beef ribeye is always a winner if you can get your hands on it!
But hey, if ribeye isn’t your jam or you’re looking for something different, chuck roast also works beautifully. Or even a nice sirloin! The real secret, no matter what cut you pick, is to dice it or slice it thin against the grain after you’ve cooked it. That’s how you get maximum tenderness, and trust me, you’ll thank yourself later for that extra step.
Can I make open face steak sandwiches ahead of time?
You bet you can do some prep work in advance! While the absolute best open face steak sandwich is assembled fresh for that warm, gooey goodness, you can totally get a head start. Think about those caramelized onions; you can make those a day or two before and just pop ’em in the fridge. That’s a huge time-saver right there!
And yes, you can cook and slice your steak ahead of time too. Just cook it again (leftovers!), diced or sliced, along with the partially caramelized onions. This makes it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you need easy dinner ideas or even a quick lunch. It’s all about making your life easier, right?
What are some good, gourmet toppings for an open face steak sandwich?
Oh, this is where the fun really begins! Beyond our delicious provolone and those sweet, savory caramelized onions, the topping possibilities for your open faced steak are practically endless. Why not think about adding some sautéed mushrooms? They add such a lovely earthy flavor. Or maybe a dollop of garlic spreadable cheese, like Boursin or Alouette? Those are always a hit!
For a bit of freshness, you could add some crisp arugula for a peppery bite, or even a fancy drizzle of balsamic glaze. Some folks really love a good steak seasoning, while others prefer to keep it simple with just salt and ground black pepper. It’s your open face steak sandwich recipe, so make it exactly what you love!
How do you cook steak for an open face steak sandwich?
For this particular steak sandwich recipe, we’re dicing up the steak and cooking it in a skillet with a bit of vegetable oil. We’re aiming for well done here, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. But if you’re like me and you prefer a medium rare steak, you can absolutely sear a whole piece of ribeye or chuck roast first. A cast iron skillet or even a griddle insert works wonderfully for that perfect sear!
Just sear it on all sides, then slice it thin. And here’s a pro tip: always remember to let the meat rest for a few minutes after searing. That’s how you keep it super juicy and tender, which is key for a truly amazing steak sandwich.
Is an open face steak sandwich a good party appetizer?
Absolutely, 100% yes! An open face steak sandwich makes an excellent party finger food or cocktail party food. They’re hearty, flavorful, and so easy for your guests to enjoy. Just prepare the sandwiches as we’ve directed, then before serving, cut each half into smaller, more manageable pieces. Trust me, they’ll be a total hit at any gathering you host!










1 comment
Suzie Mathews
Just saw this. I’m going to make it now with my leftover t-bone steaks and French bread loaf I have. I have the provolone cheese. Looks fantastic and easy enough to make.