This Steak Ciabatta is a tasty sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It features juicy steak, sweet caramelized onions, and a creamy garlic chive aioli, all packed in soft ciabatta bread.
The combination of flavors makes it hard to resist! I love how the sweet onions balance the garlic aioli; it’s a match made in heaven. Enjoy it with some crispy fries for a complete meal! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ciabatta Bread: Ciabatta gives a chewy texture that holds up well to hearty fillings. If you can’t find ciabatta, feel free to use a baguette or a sturdy hoagie roll instead.
Steak: Flank steak is my go-to for this recipe due to its flavor and tenderness when cooked right. You can swap it with sirloin, ribeye, or even a grilled chicken breast for a lighter option.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for caramelization, but you can use sweet onions like Vidalia, or even red onions if you prefer a touch of color and sweetness.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the base of the aioli. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt. Can’t eat dairy? Try a vegan mayo or tahini instead.
Chives: Fresh chives add a great onion flavor to the aioli. If chives aren’t available, feel free to use green onions or shallots for a similar taste.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions can be tricky, but it’s all about low and slow cooking. Start by heating olive oil (and butter if you want more flavor) in a skillet over medium-low heat. Here’s how to do it:
- Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. If you want, sprinkle a bit of sugar to aid in browning.
- Cook the onions for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to slowly bring out their natural sweetness without burning.
- Once they’re deep golden brown, remove from heat and set aside. They will add a lovely sweetness to your sandwich!
Be patient during this step – it’s worth the wait!
Steak Ciabatta with Caramelized Onions and Garlic Chive Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 1 large ciabatta loaf or 2 ciabatta rolls
- 12 oz (340 g) flank steak or sirloin steak
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to aid caramelization)
For the Garlic Chive Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tbsp butter (for onions)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Steak Ciabatta recipe takes approximately 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 40 minutes of cooking time. Total, you’re looking at about 1 hour to get this savory sandwich ready to devour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Caramelized Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil (and butter if you’re using it) in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt and sugar, if desired. Cook those onions slowly while stirring occasionally for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll want them to turn a beautiful golden brown, so patience is key! Once they’re caramelized, remove them from the heat and set aside.
2. Making the Garlic Chive Aioli:
While the onions are caramelizing, let’s whip up that delicious aioli! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped chives, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined. Cover it and pop it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your sandwich.
3. Cooking the Steak:
Next, pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. In the same skillet (or a hot grill pan), heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, but adjust time for your desired doneness. Once cooked to your liking, take it off the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. After resting, slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
4. Preparing the Ciabatta Bread:
Slice the ciabatta loaf or rolls horizontally to create sandwich halves. If you like, you can lightly toast the bread in a toaster or on the grill to add a nice crunch!
5. Assembling the Sandwich:
Spread a generous layer of that creamy garlic chive aioli on both halves of the ciabatta. Place the sliced steak evenly on the bottom half, then top it off with those sweet caramelized onions. Close the sandwich with the top half of the ciabatta.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, slice the sandwich in half for easier eating. Serve your delicious Steak Ciabatta immediately, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite side salad or crispy fries. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Steak Ciabatta with Caramelized Onions and Garlic Chive Aioli
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While ciabatta is ideal for its texture, you can use any sturdy bread such as a baguette or a hoagie roll. Just make sure it can hold up to the filling!
How Can I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the aioli separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Can I Make the Aioli Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic chive aioli a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully while it chills!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat the Steak?
If you have leftover steak, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or a little water to keep it moist. Avoid high heat to prevent it from becoming tough.
