What Steak makes the best Steak Sandwich?

What Steak makes the best Steak Sandwich? is a medium American recipe that serves 3. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by Ethan Chlebowski on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 36 min | Total: 1 hr 11 min

Cost: $27.41 total, $9.14 per serving

Ingredients

  • 120 g Flat Iron Steak (thinly sliced for cheesesteak; whole for chimichurri sandwich)
  • 120 g Ribeye Steak (thinly sliced for cheesesteak; whole for chimichurri sandwich)
  • 120 g Flank Steak (thinly sliced for cheesesteak; whole for chimichurri sandwich)
  • 1 piece Hoagie Roll (soft, 6‑inch roll for cheesesteak)
  • 1 half loaf Ciabatta Bread (cut into 2‑3 sandwich‑size pieces, toasted for chimichurri sandwich)
  • 1 medium White Onion (diced for fried onions)
  • 30 g Beef Tallow (about 2 tbsp, for frying onions)
  • 200 g Whole Milk (for cheese sauce, full‑fat preferred)
  • 200 g Velveeta Cheese (cut into cubes, melts smoothly)
  • 50 g American Cheese Slices (roughly 4‑5 slices, added to cheese sauce)
  • 2 g Sodium Citrate (emulsifier for smooth cheese sauce)
  • 100 g Olive Oil (base for chimichurri)
  • 30 g White Wine Vinegar (acidic component of chimichurri)
  • 2 pieces Garlic Cloves (minced for chimichurri)
  • 15 g Fresh Parsley (roughly half a bunch, chopped for chimichurri)
  • 2 g Red Pepper Flakes (adds mild heat to chimichurri)
  • 2 g Dried Oregano (herb flavor in chimichurri)
  • 15 g Mayonnaise (light spread on ciabatta for extra creaminess)
  • 20 g Arugula (bitter green for chimichurri sandwich)
  • to taste Salt (season steaks and onions)
  • to taste Black Pepper (optional for steak seasoning)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Steaks

    Remove flat‑iron, rib‑eye, and flank steaks from the freezer, place them in the refrigerator for 30‑45 minutes to slightly thaw, then slice each steak cross‑grain as thinly as possible (≈1 mm) using a sharp chef’s knife.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Dice Onion & Prep Cheese Sauce Ingredients

    Dice one medium white onion into a medium dice. Cube Velveeta, separate American cheese slices, and measure out milk, sodium citrate, and salt.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Fry Onions in Beef Tallow

    Heat a large skillet over medium‑high heat, melt 30 g beef tallow, add the diced onion with a pinch of salt, and cook 2‑3 minutes until the first side browns, then lower heat to medium‑low and continue cooking 5‑8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are brown with a slight bite.

    Time: PT10M

  4. Make Cheese Sauce

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring 200 g whole milk to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in 200 g Velveeta, then 50 g American cheese slices, and finally 2 g sodium citrate. Continue stirring for about 7 minutes until the sauce is smooth; it will thicken as it cools.

    Time: PT7M

  5. Cook Thin‑Sliced Steaks for Cheesesteak

    Wipe the skillet clean, then heat over medium heat. Add a thin layer of oil (or a splash of beef tallow), place a handful of thin‑sliced steak (choose flat‑iron, rib‑eye, or flank) in the pan, season with salt, and cook 4 minutes, breaking up with a spatula. Add the fried onions and cook another minute, then drizzle 45 g of cheese sauce over the meat and stir to coat.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Assemble Philly Cheesesteak

    Place a hoagie roll on a clean surface, open it, and lay the hot steak‑onion‑cheese mixture inside. Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment or wax paper and let rest 2 minutes to allow steam to meld flavors.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Prepare Chimichurri Sauce

    Finely mince 2 garlic cloves and 15 g fresh parsley. In a bowl, combine 100 g olive oil, 30 g white wine vinegar, 2 g red pepper flakes, 2 g dried oregano, the minced garlic, and parsley. Stir until emulsified; set aside.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Season Whole Steaks for Chimichurri Sandwich

    Pat the remaining whole steaks (flat‑iron, rib‑eye, flank) dry, season both sides generously with salt and optional pepper, and set aside on a plate.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Sear Steaks to Medium‑Rare

    Heat three separate pans over high heat, add a drizzle of neutral oil, and when the pan reaches ~400 °F, add one steak per pan. Cook, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 130 °F (medium‑rare), about 6‑8 minutes total. Remove and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: 400°F

  10. Slice Cooked Steaks

    After resting, slice each steak across the grain into 0.5‑cm thick strips.

    Time: PT2M

  11. Toast Ciabatta

    Preheat the oven to 350 °F. Slice the ciabatta loaf into sandwich‑size pieces, place on a baking sheet, and toast 5‑7 minutes until lightly golden.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: 350°F

  12. Assemble Chimichurri Steak Sandwich

    Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on both halves of the toasted ciabatta. Drizzle a spoonful of chimichurri on the bottom half, add a handful of arugula, then layer the sliced steak. Top with an additional spoonful of chimichurri and close the sandwich.

    Time: PT3M

  13. Serve & Enjoy

    Serve the Philly cheesesteak wrapped and the chimichurri steak sandwich unwrapped. Enjoy while hot for best texture contrast.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
620
Protein
35 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
30 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains dairy, Contains gluten

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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What Steak makes the best Steak Sandwich?

Recipe by Ethan Chlebowski

Two steak‑sandwich experiments that compare flank, rib‑eye, and flat‑iron cuts. One is a classic Philly‑style cheesesteak with cheese sauce and fried onions on a hoagie roll; the other is a medium‑rare steak on toasted ciabatta with arugula, mayo, and a bright chimichurri. The flat‑iron steak shines in both, but the recipes show how cut, thickness, and toppings change texture, flavor, and temperature contrast.

MediumAmericanServes 3

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
25m
Prep
34m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 9m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$27.41
Total cost
$9.14
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Thinly slice the steak for the cheesesteak (step 1).
  • Fry onions in beef tallow for authentic flavor (step 3).
  • Use sodium citrate to create a smooth cheese sauce (step 4).
  • Cook the whole steaks to medium‑rare using a thermometer (step 9).
  • Wrap the cheesesteak tightly to retain moisture (step 6).

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw beef with clean hands and separate cutting boards to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure steaks reach safe internal temperature (130 °F for medium‑rare, 145 °F for well‑done).
  • Be careful when slicing partially frozen meat; use a stable cutting board and a sharp knife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the Philly cheesesteak in American cuisine?

A

The Philly cheesesteak originated in the 1930s in Philadelphia’s South Street neighborhood and quickly became a working‑class staple. It represents the city’s love of beef, cheese, and simple, hearty sandwiches, and is often associated with sports venues and local pride.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of the Philly cheesesteak exist in Pennsylvania cuisine?

A

In Pennsylvania you’ll find variations such as the “cheese whiz” version, a “provolone” version, and the “onion‑only” version. Some shops add sautéed mushrooms or hot peppers, but the core components remain thin‑sliced steak, a soft hoagie roll, and melted cheese.

cultural
Q

How is a traditional Philly cheesesteak typically served in Philadelphia?

A

Traditionally it is served on a soft, slightly crusty hoagie roll, topped with melted cheese (often cheese whiz) and optional sautéed onions. The sandwich is usually wrapped in paper to keep it warm and to allow the steam to meld the flavors.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is the Philly cheesesteak traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Philly cheesesteaks are a go‑to food at sporting events, especially Philadelphia Eagles games, as well as at street fairs, market stalls, and casual gatherings. They’re also a popular late‑night snack after concerts or bar outings.

cultural
Q

What makes the flat‑iron steak special or unique in American steak sandwich cuisine?

A

Flat‑iron steak offers a rare combination of tenderness comparable to filet mignon and rich beefy flavor similar to rib‑eye, while being more affordable and easier to slice thinly at home. This makes it ideal for both thin‑cut cheesesteaks and medium‑rare sandwich applications.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for a chimichurri steak sandwich in Argentine cuisine versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional Argentine chimichurri uses parsley, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Acceptable substitutes include using a mix of cilantro for a fresher twist, or swapping red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar, but the herb‑oil balance should remain.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with a flat‑iron steak sandwich?

A

Flat‑iron steak sandwiches pair nicely with classic sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A cold craft beer or a crisp cider also complements the beefy flavors.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Philly cheesesteak version of this flat‑iron steak sandwich?

A

Common mistakes include overcooking the thin steak strips, using too much oil which makes the sandwich soggy, and not wrapping the sandwich tightly enough, which lets steam escape and dries out the roll.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use sodium citrate in the cheese sauce instead of simply melting cheese directly?

A

Sodium citrate acts as an emulsifier, preventing the cheese from separating and creating a smooth, pourable sauce that stays glossy as it cools. Without it, the cheese can become grainy or oily.

technical
Q

Can I make the flat‑iron steak sandwiches ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. Cook the steak, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the cheese sauce and chimichurri separate; reheat the steak gently and assemble just before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Ethan Chlebowski specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Ethan Chlebowski focuses on experimental home cooking, often testing ingredient variations and cooking techniques to determine the best methods for classic dishes, with a strong emphasis on meat preparation and flavor science.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Ethan Chlebowski's approach to American steak sandwich cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Ethan Chlebowski combines scientific flavor frameworks (taste, aroma, texture, sight, physical, human factor) with side‑by‑side taste tests, whereas many other channels simply demonstrate a single recipe without systematic comparison of cuts or sandwich components.

channel

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