Steak & Cheddar Melt with Caramelized Onions
The Ultimate Grilled Sandwich with Juicy Ribeye & Gooey Cheese
Indulge in this gourmet steak melt—loaded with tender grilled ribeye, sharp cheddar, and buttery caramelized onions, all pressed between golden, crispy sourdough. Perfect for a hearty lunch or game-day feast!
Why This Sandwich Wins
🔥 Restaurant-quality at home – Juicy steak meets melty cheddar.
🔥 Sweet & savory balance – Slow-caramelized onions add depth.
🔥 10/10 texture – Crispy grilled bread vs. tender beef.
🔥 Ready in 40 mins – Worth every minute!
Ingredients
(Makes 4 sandwiches)
For the Sandwich
- 8 slices rustic sourdough (or thick Italian bread)
- 1 lb ribeye or flank steak (grilled medium-rare, thinly sliced)
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided: 2 tbsp for onions, 2 tbsp for bread)
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Optional Add-Ons
- Spicy kick: Pickled jalapeños or hot sauce
- Creamy twist: Garlic aioli or horseradish mayo
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions (Patience = Flavor!)
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add onions + pinch of salt. Cook 25–30 mins, stirring often, until deep golden and jammy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Steak
- Season steak with salt & pepper.
- Grill or sear over high heat for 3–4 mins per side (medium-rare).
- Rest 5 mins, then slice thinly against the grain.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Layer on 4 bread slices:
- ½ cup cheddar → steak slices → caramelized onions → herbs → remaining cheese.
- Top with second bread slice.
4. Grill to Perfection
- Heat skillet/griddle to medium heat.
- Butter the outer sides of each sandwich.
- Grill 3–4 mins per side, pressing gently, until golden and cheese oozes.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice diagonally (for maximum cheese pull!).
- Pair with: Crispy fries, dill pickles, or a simple salad.
Pro Tips for Success
🔹 Onion hack: Add a pinch of sugar to speed up caramelization.
🔹 Cheese upgrade: Mix cheddar with gruyère for extra meltiness.
🔹 Steak swap: Leftover roast beef works great too!
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Elevate your sandwich with these easy sauces:
- Spicy Chipotle Mayo: ½ cup mayo + 1 tbsp chipotle paste + squeeze of lime.
- Garlic Herb Aioli: Mix mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
- Horseradish Cream: Sour cream + prepared horseradish + black pepper.
FAQ
Can I use a panini press?
Yes! Grill for 2–3 mins until crispy.
How to store leftovers?
Wrap in foil; reheat in oven at 350°F for 10 mins.
Craving more? Try these next:
→ [Grilled Chicken Pesto Melt](),
→ [Ultimate French Dip Sandwich]().
Tag us on Instagram if you make this—we’d love to see your melty masterpieces! 🧀
