Steak Sandwiches with Wasabi Cream Sauce: A Bold Flavorful Classic
Tender meat and melty cheese come alive with a spicy drizzle that elevates comfort.
Steak Sandwiches with Wasabi Cream Sauce
If you’re seeking a bold and memorable steak sandwich, this recipe fuses traditional comfort with vibrant, modern flavors. Juicy sirloin steak, rich havarti cheese, and crisp arugula come together between crusty ciabatta rolls, all elevated by a zesty wasabi cream sauce that packs a punch and brings all the elements together. Whether for a weeknight dinner, special gathering, or as an upscale twist to classic steak sandwiches, this satisfying meal will please adventurous eaters and steak lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Sandwich
- Steakhouse Quality at Home: Achieve tender, flavorful steak with a quick stovetop and oven method.
- Wasabi Cream Sauce: The creamy, spicy sauce offers a unique bite and pairs deliciously with savory steak and cheese.
- Easy Customization: Add your favorite cheese, greens, or bread to create your ideal sandwich.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe impresses guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Steak Sandwiches with Wasabi Cream Sauce
These sandwiches come together from a handful of accessible yet flavorful ingredients. Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite greens or cheese, but try the original combination for a balanced, delicious experience.
Wasabi Cream Sauce
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 to 2 teaspoons prepared wasabi paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sandwiches
- 2 pounds sirloin steak (about 1 inch thick)
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 6 ciabatta rolls, split open
- 6 ounces havarti or Swiss cheese, sliced
- 3 cups baby arugula
- Potato chips, for serving (optional, but highly recommended!)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Wasabi Cream Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, wasabi paste, grated garlic, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
- Mix until smoothly blended. Taste and adjust salt and wasabi for your preferred heat level.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and deepens the sauce’s complexity.
Tip: Extra wasabi sauce is fantastic as a dip for potato chips or fries!
2. Get the Steak Ready
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Select a large, ovenproof cast-iron skillet. Heat over medium-high until hot.
- Drizzle the sirloin steak with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Add steak to the hot skillet. Sear about 2 minutes per side, until well browned but not cooked through.
- Transfer the skillet directly to the oven. Cook for 5–7 minutes (targeting medium-rare; add or subtract cooking time for preferred doneness).
- Remove steak to a cutting board and let rest. Resting is crucial for juicy, tender slices!
3. Prepare the Sandwich Bases
- Place the bottom halves of the ciabatta rolls on a baking sheet.
- Top each roll bottom with a generous layer of the sliced havarti or Swiss cheese.
- Bake in the oven for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese just begins to melt and the rolls are warmed through.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Slice rested steak thinly against the grain, maximizing tenderness in every bite.
- Arrange steak slices over the cheesy roll bottoms.
- Top with a handful of fresh baby arugula for a peppery crunch that cuts the richness.
- Slather the wasabi cream sauce on the cut sides of the top halves of the rolls.
- Close each sandwich and press lightly to help all the ingredients meld together.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by crispy potato chips or your favorite side.
What others are reading
Tips and Customizations
- Wasabi Heat: For milder flavor, use less wasabi and build up gradually. For a spicier kick, increase the wasabi or add a little more freshly grated garlic.
- Bread Options: Ciabatta is perfect for its airy crumb and chewy crust, but you can substitute baguettes, sourdough, or sturdy sandwich rolls.
- Cheese Choices: Havarti or Swiss bring creaminess and melt beautifully. Try provolone, sharp Cheddar, or Gouda if you prefer a stronger cheese flavor.
- Greens: Arugula adds brightness and bite, but spinach or mixed greens work well, too.
- Slicing Tips: Always slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Use a sharp knife for clean, even slices.
Serving Suggestions
- Crispy Potato Chips or Fries: Serve on the side, with extra wasabi cream sauce for dipping.
- Pickled Vegetables: Quick pickled onions or crisp cucumbers offer a tangy counterpoint to the rich steak.
- Simple Green Salad: Lightly dressed greens refresh the palate and complement the meaty sandwich.
Make-Ahead and Storage Advice
- Wasabi Cream Sauce: Make up to two days ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and stir before using.
- Steak: Cook and slice steak up to a day in advance. Store slices in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, covered, until just warm before assembling sandwiches.
- Sandwich Assembly: For maximum freshness, assemble just before serving so bread stays crisp and the arugula doesn’t wilt.
Nutritional Overview
While calories can vary based on portion size and specific product choices, this sandwich provides a balanced mix of protein (from steak and cheese), fats (from cheese and sauce), and fiber and vitamins (from arugula). The wasabi sauce, while flavorful, is used sparingly and adds a minimal caloric load compared to the steak and bread.
| Ingredient | Main Contribution | Suggested Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Sirloin Steak | Protein, Iron, Rich Flavor | Flank, Skirt, Ribeye |
| Wasabi Cream Sauce | Spice, Creaminess | Horseradish Cream, Sriracha Mayo |
| Havarti or Swiss | Meltiness, Mild Cheese Flavor | Provolone, Cheddar, Gouda |
| Ciabatta Rolls | Chewy Texture, Structure | Baguette, Sourdough Rolls |
| Arugula | Peppery Freshness | Spinach, Mixed Greens |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: Absolutely. While sirloin delivers great value and tenderness, flank, skirt, or ribeye work well. Adjust cooking times according to thickness and cut.
Q: Is the wasabi sauce very spicy?
A: The heat level is adjustable. Start with a smaller amount of wasabi paste and taste before adding more. The creaminess from sour cream and mayo also mellows the punch.
Q: What are good side dishes for this sandwich?
A: Potato chips, fries, pickled vegetables, and simple salads are all excellent choices. Extra sauce as a dip is always a hit!
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store the separate components (steak, sauce, cheese, bread, greens) in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble only when ready to eat, to keep the bread and greens fresh.
Q: Can the wasabi cream sauce be made ahead?
A: Yes, and it actually improves with a couple of hours of chilling. Refrigerate in a covered container for up to two days.
Variations and Flavor Add-Ins
- Caramelized Onions: Add sweet, golden onions for extra richness.
- Avocado Slices: Layer in creamy avocado for fresh flavor and healthy fat.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms pair beautifully with steak and cheese.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For extra spice, add a few pickled jalapeño slices to the sandwich.
Entertaining and Serving for a Crowd
- Build-Your-Own Bar: Arrange sliced steak, rolls, sauces, cheeses, and greens so guests can assemble their own custom sandwiches.
- Mini Sandwiches: Use slider rolls and halve ingredient quantities for party-sized bites.
- Prep in Advance: Steak and sauce can be made ahead, and sandwich assembly streamlined before serving.
Explore More Steak Sandwich Ideas
- Try it with spicy horseradish cream, aioli, or a simple garlic butter sauce for different flavor profiles.
- Experiment with sweet peppers, fresh herbs, or other greens to personalize your sandwich.
- For a breakfast spin, top with a fried egg or add crispy bacon.
Quick Reference: Assembly Steps
- Mix and Chill Sauce: Blend sauce ingredients and refrigerate.
- Sear Steak: Brown steak in skillet; finish in oven.
- Melt Cheese: Place cheese on roll bottoms and warm in the oven.
- Slice Steak: Cut across the grain for tenderness.
- Assemble: Layer steak, arugula, and sauce; close sandwiches and serve.
Conclusion
The beauty of this steak sandwich with wasabi cream sauce lies in its perfect balance of textures and flavors: robust steak, creamy zippy sauce, melty cheese, crisp greens, and hearty bread. With straightforward steps and room for creativity, it’s a home-cooked meal that delivers restaurant-level satisfaction. Give this recipe a try, adjust to your taste, and prepare to wow friends, family, or just yourself.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32464852/steak-sandwiches-with-wasabi-cream-sauce-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11657/marlboro-mans-f/
- https://www.aol.com/one-ree-drummonds-time-greatest-223700188.html
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/g36383850/steak-sauce-recipes/
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