Steak Sandwich with Garlic Aioli and Caramelized Onions Recipe
This flavorful Steak Sandwich with Garlic Aioli is a perfect combination of tender skirt steak marinated in a sweet and tangy balsamic mixture, caramelized onions, fresh arugula, and melted Provolone cheese on toasted hoagie rolls. The creamy garlic aioli adds a rich, zesty touch to elevate this hearty and satisfying sandwich.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Garlic Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Steak Sandwich
- 24 ounces skirt steak
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 1 cup arugula
- 8 slices Provolone cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Aioli: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Marinate the Steak: In a large bowl, add the skirt steak, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, vegetable oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly to evenly coat the steak with the marinade.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat, then add the unsalted butter and thinly sliced onions. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 to 12 minutes until the onions are deep golden and caramelized. Remove onions from the pan and set aside.
- Sear the Steak: Increase the skillet heat to high. Let any excess marinade drip off the steak before placing it in the hot pan. Sear the steak for 3 to 4 minutes on each side to develop a nice crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Rest and Slice the Steak: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Toast the Hoagie Rolls: Brush the cut sides of the hoagie rolls with melted butter. Place them buttered-side down on a griddle or skillet over medium heat and toast for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli on the toasted hoagie rolls. Add slices of Provolone cheese, followed by a handful of fresh arugula. Top with the thinly sliced steak and a generous portion of caramelized onions. Close the sandwich and serve immediately.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, let the skirt steak marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours before cooking.
- Skirt steak is ideal for this recipe due to its rich flavor and quick cooking time; if unavailable, flank steak can be used as a substitute.
- If you prefer a spicier aioli, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic aioli mixture.
- Be careful not to overcook the steak to maintain tenderness—medium rare to medium is recommended.
- Using a cast-iron skillet helps achieve the perfect sear and caramelization but a heavy-bottomed pan can suffice.
Keywords: steak sandwich, garlic aioli, skirt steak sandwich, caramelized onions, Provolone sandwich, hoagie sandwich, easy steak recipe, sandwich recipe
