Air Fryer Steak Melt sandwich
INGREDIENTS
- Juicy steak slices. Go with leftover Ribye steak, cut up steak bites or Skirt steak.
- Cheese. I like Provolone for its slightly sweet and nutty taste and snow-white color. It pairs nicely with the steak and adds a great flavor. Swiss cheese brings a bold flavor that melts very well over the steak, while cheddar offers creamy yet sharp notes for an unforgettable experience.
- Bread. It’s important to pick a fresh slice that will really soak up the steak’s juices as they melt into it. I highly recommend a classic white or rye sandwich loaf or something more artisanal like sourdough. Ciabatta is another great option, as its chewy center and crisp exterior make for an incredibly satisfying bite.
- Mayo. Spread it on each slice of bread.
- To make the meal even more flavorful, add some vegetables. For the best results, use mushrooms, peppers, onions, and tomatoes for a classic combination with steak. A little bit of sautéed garlic adds a nice touch as well. For a heartier consistency, add roasted eggplant or zucchini.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 375° degrees Fahrenheit (190° C).
- Assemble – While it is preheating, begin assembling your sandwich by spreading a thin layer of mayo or butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning or seasoning of choice on the buttered side.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Arrange slices of steak and veggies on the bread and top with cheese.
- Place the sandwich directly onto the air fryer basket (or tray). I like to air fry it as an “open-face” and give the chance to veggies and cheese to caramelize.
- Air fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is nicely toasted and golden-brown; cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.
NOTES
BEST CUTS OF MEAT FOR STEAK SANDWICHES
Ribeye. This cut of meat gives you the juiciest and most flavorful sandwich. The marbling on the steak adds extra tenderness to each bite. The big flavor of the ribeye goes perfectly with bold condiments such as pesto, blue cheese, and tomato jam for an unforgettable sandwich experience.
Skirt steak. It’is leaner than ribeye, but it brings an intense beefy flavor that pairs nicely with bold ingredients like garlic, horseradish mayo, or chilies to make a sandwich your friends and family won’t soon forget.
Top sirloin. This cut of meat has a great flavor and retains its moisture, making it an excellent choice for sandwiches. It also slices easily, so you’ll have nicely shaped pieces of beef to top your bread. What’s more, top sirloin has the right amount of fat content to give it that perfectly rich flavor while remaining lean enough to provide a healthy meal.