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Korean Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Cheese

A savory and spicy sandwich featuring sweet caramelized onions, tender steak, and melted cheese, perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Fusion, Korean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Steak Marinade

  • 1 pound ribeye steak, very thinly sliced You can swap for flank or skirt steak.
  • 2.5 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Korean chili paste (gochujang) Can substitute with miso and chili paste mix.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple juice or water For marinating.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small sweet apple, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Sandwich

  • 1.5 tablespoons neutral oil, divided For cooking.
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced Caramelized.
  • 4 thick slices bread Any type you prefer.
  • 2.5 tablespoons butter, melted For toasting.
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with provolone or mozzarella.
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds For garnish.
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 to 2 jalapeños, sliced Adjust as per spice preference.
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons sweet chili sauce

Instructions
 

Marinate Steak

  • Place the sliced steak in a bowl. Mix with soy sauce, chili paste, ginger, brown sugar, apple juice, garlic, black pepper, grated apple, and sesame oil. Marinate for 20 to 30 minutes.

Caramelize Onions

  • Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onions until deeply golden, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook Steak and Peppers

  • Add remaining oil and cook marinated steak over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes until browned.
  • Add bell peppers and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender.

Assemble Sandwich

  • Butter one side of each bread slice and place in the skillet butter-side down.
  • Layer onions, steak mixture, cheese, red onion, jalapeños, green onions, and sesame seeds. Top with remaining bread.

Cook Sandwich

  • Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.

Prepare Sauce

  • Mix mayonnaise, garlic, and sweet chili sauce. Open sandwich, add sauce, close, and serve immediately.

Notes

Serve hot for the melty cheese experience. Pair with fries, a crisp salad, or grilled corn.
Keyword Caramelized Onions, Gochujang, Korean Steak Sandwich, Quick Dinner, savory sandwich