Nothing beats a hearty, juicy, and flavorful shaved steak sandwich recipe when you’re craving a delicious homemade meal. This sandwich features ultra-thin slices of tender steak, perfectly seasoned and seared, then piled onto toasted bread with gooey melted cheese and savory toppings. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak or want to try bold variations, this beef sandwich is easy to make and packed with flavor.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about crafting the best shaved steak sandwich, from choosing the right cut of meat to cooking techniques and must-try variations. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
What Is a Shaved Steak Sandwich Recipe?
A shaved steak sandwich recipe is a delicious combination of ultra-thin slices of beef cooked to perfection and served on a toasted roll. The steak is typically seasoned and sautéed with onions, peppers, or mushrooms before being loaded onto fresh bread and topped with cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: The steak cooks in minutes, making this an ideal meal for busy nights.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings, cheeses, and condiments to create your perfect sandwich.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: You don’t have to visit a steakhouse to enjoy this sandwich—make it right in your kitchen!
The History of Shaved Steak in Sandwiches Recipe
Shaved steak sandwiches recipe have a long history, with one of the most famous variations being the Philly cheesesteak. Invented in Philadelphia in the 1930s, this iconic sandwich features thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese, all stuffed inside a soft hoagie roll.
Over the years, variations of the shaved steak sandwich recipe have emerged, incorporating different cheeses, seasonings, and toppings to cater to different tastes. Today, it’s a popular dish found in diners, food trucks, and home kitchens across the world.
Ingredients for the Perfect Shaved Steak Sandwich
Choosing the Best Steak for Shaving
The key to a great shaved steak sandwich is selecting the right cut of beef. Here are some of the best options:
- Ribeye – Known for its rich marbling and tenderness, ribeye is the top choice for an ultra-juicy sandwich.
- Sirloin – A leaner option with excellent beefy flavor.
- Flank Steak – Slightly tougher but works well when sliced thin and marinated.
👉 Pro Tip: If you can’t find pre-shaved steak at the store, buy a whole steak and freeze it for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to slice into ultra-thin pieces.
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Results
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best shaved steak sandwich:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shaved Steak | 1 lb |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Bell Peppers | 1 (optional) |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | ½ cup |
| Cheese (Provolone, American, or Cheez Whiz) | 4 slices |
| Hoagie Rolls or Sub Rolls | 2 large |
| Butter or Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tbsp |
Optional Additions to Elevate Your Sandwich
Want to take your sandwich to the next level? Try adding:
- Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Gourmet Touch – Use truffle aioli or blue cheese crumbles.
- Crunch Factor – Top with crispy fried onions or pickles.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make a Shaved Steak Sandwich
1. Prepping Your Ingredients for the Best Flavor
Before you start cooking, prep all your ingredients:
- Slice the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms into thin strips.
- Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add butter or oil.
👉 Pro Tip: A hot skillet ensures a nice sear on the meat, locking in all the juices!
2. Cooking the Shaved Steak to Perfection
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a large skillet.
- Add the sliced onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the shaved steak.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
3. Choosing and Toasting the Right Bread
A great sandwich starts with great bread. The best choices include:
- Hoagie Rolls – Soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling.
- Ciabatta – Offers a crispy bite with a rustic feel.
- Brioche Buns – A slightly sweet contrast to the savory steak.
👉 Toasting Tip: Spread a little butter on the bread and toast it in a skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
4. Assembling the Perfect Shaved Steak Sandwich
- Place the cooked steak and veggies onto the toasted bread.
- Add slices of cheese on top and let them melt from the heat.
- Close the sandwich and press it slightly for a perfect bite.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes!
Pro Tips for the Best Shaved Steak Sandwich
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Steak – Thin slices cook quickly, so don’t leave them on the heat for too long.
- Using the Wrong Bread – Soft, fresh bread enhances the experience.
- Skipping the Toasting Step – Toasted bread prevents sogginess.
How to Achieve the Juiciest Steak
- Use high heat to sear the meat quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the steak will steam instead of brown.
- Let the steak rest for a minute before assembling the sandwich.
Secret Ingredients to Boost Flavor
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth.
- Balsamic Glaze – Provides a subtle sweetness.
- Butter Finish – Stirring in butter at the end enhances richness.
Variations of the Shaved Steak Sandwich Recipe
One of the best things about this sandwich is its versatility. Whether you want to stick to the classic or try something bold, here are some tasty variations to experiment with:
1. Classic Philly Cheesesteak Style
The Philly cheesesteak is the most famous shaved steak sandwich variation. It’s a simple yet flavorful combination of:
- Thinly shaved ribeye steak
- Caramelized onions
- Melted cheese (Provolone, American, or Cheez Whiz)
- Soft hoagie roll
👉 Pro Tip: If you want to stay true to the Philly style, skip the peppers and mushrooms—original cheesesteaks only include onions and cheese!
2. Spicy and Bold: A Southwest-Inspired Version
Love bold flavors? Give your shaved steak sandwich a Southwest twist with these ingredients:
- Pepper jack cheese for extra heat
- Sautéed jalapeños and red onions
- Chipotle mayo or spicy aioli
- Toasted ciabatta roll
🔥 Optional: Add avocado slices for a creamy balance to the spice.
3. Italian-Style with Mozzarella and Marinara
Turn your steak sandwich into an Italian-inspired masterpiece with:
- Melted mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Rich marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves
- Crispy garlic butter hoagie roll
🍅 Optional: Add sautéed bell peppers and red pepper flakes for extra depth.
4. BBQ Lovers’ Shaved Steak Sandwich Recipe
For a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor, try a BBQ-style shaved steak sandwich:
- BBQ sauce mixed into the cooked steak
- Smoked Gouda or sharp cheddar cheese
- Crispy fried onions for crunch
- Brioche or pretzel bun for a hint of sweetness
👉 Pro Tip: Use hickory-smoked or mesquite BBQ sauce for the best flavor.
5. French Dip Style with Au Jus
If you love dipping sandwiches, this one’s for you! Serve your shaved steak sandwich with a side of au jus (a flavorful beef broth) for dipping.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Thinly shaved roast beef or steak
- Swiss or Provolone cheese
- Buttered and toasted French baguette
- Beef broth with Worcestershire sauce and garlic for dipping
Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly with a Shaved Steak Sandwich
A great sandwich deserves an equally delicious side dish. Here are some of the best options to serve alongside your shaved steak sandwich:
1. Crispy Fries and Onion Rings
Nothing beats the classic combo of steak sandwiches and fries! Here are some tasty variations:
- Garlic Parmesan Fries – Toss fries in butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly sweet contrast to the savory steak.
- Beer-Battered Onion Rings – Crispy and golden brown for extra crunch.
👉 Pro Tip: Serve with a side of garlic aioli or truffle mayo for dipping.
2. Fresh Salads and Light Options
If you want something lighter, a fresh salad is a great option:
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
- Arugula and Tomato Salad – Peppery arugula with cherry tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
- Coleslaw – Adds a crunchy, tangy balance to the richness of the sandwich.
🥗 Optional: Try a grilled corn and avocado salad for a smoky, creamy side dish.
3. Dipping Sauces and Condiments
Enhance your sandwich with dipping sauces and condiments that add flavor and texture:
| Sauce | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Garlic Aioli | Creamy, garlicky goodness |
| Horseradish Sauce | Bold and spicy kick |
| Chipotle Mayo | Smoky and spicy |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy |
| Blue Cheese Dip | Rich and tangy contrast |
👉 Pro Tip: Mix Worcestershire sauce into mayo or ketchup for an easy, umami-packed dip!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—your sandwich can still taste amazing the next day if stored and reheated properly.
How to Store Leftover Shaved Steak
To keep the steak fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigerate: Store cooked shaved steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: If you want to store it longer, freeze it in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
👉 Pro Tip: Store the bread separately to prevent it from getting soggy.
How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
Reheating the steak properly is key to maintaining its tenderness. Here’s how to do it:
Best methods for reheating shaved steak:
- Skillet: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a little butter or oil, and warm the steak for 1-2 minutes.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the steak in foil, and heat for 10 minutes.
- Microwave (Least Recommended): If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts to avoid drying it out.
👉 Pro Tip: If reheating a fully assembled sandwich, wrap it in foil and place it in the oven for 10-12 minutes at 350°F for the best results.
Enjoy More Related Recipes
Before we wrap up, here are three recipes from our website that you might love:
- Beef Steak Pasta Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Meal for Any Occasion – If you love beef, this pasta dish will be your next favorite!
- Barbecue Chicken Sandwich Recipe: Easy, Juicy, and Delicious – Another amazing sandwich recipe that’s packed with smoky BBQ flavor.
- Beef Strips Recipes: Delicious & Easy Dishes to Try – Looking for more beef-based dishes? Check out these tasty recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about shaved steak sandwich recipe
1. What’s the best cut of beef for a shaved steak sandwich recipe?
The best cuts for shaved steak are ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak. Ribeye is the most flavorful due to its marbling, while sirloin and flank steak are leaner options that still offer great taste when sliced thinly.
👉 Pro Tip: If you can’t find pre-shaved steak, buy a whole steak, freeze it for 30 minutes, and then slice it as thinly as possible with a sharp knife.
2. Can I use ground beef instead of shaved steak?
While ground beef can be used in a pinch, it won’t have the same texture or flavor as shaved steak. If you must substitute, use ground sirloin and cook it with similar seasonings to mimic the flavor.
3. What’s the best cheese for a shaved steak sandwich recipe?
The most popular cheese choices include:
- Provolone – Mild and melty, perfect for a balanced flavor.
- Cheez Whiz – The classic Philly cheesesteak choice for a creamy, rich topping.
- American Cheese – Smooth, creamy, and slightly salty.
- Swiss Cheese – A great option if you prefer a mild, nutty taste.
👉 Pro Tip: Melt the cheese directly over the steak in the skillet before assembling the sandwich for the best texture.
4. What’s the best bread for a shaved steak sandwich recipe?
A hoagie roll is the best choice because it’s soft enough to absorb the steak’s juices yet sturdy enough to hold everything together. Other great options include:
- Ciabatta – Adds a rustic, crispy bite.
- Brioche Bun – A slightly sweet contrast to the savory steak.
- French Baguette – Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside.
5. Can I make a shaved steak sandwich ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the shaved steak and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the steak in a skillet, toast the bread, and assemble your sandwich fresh for the best results.
6. What’s the best way to reheat a shaved steak sandwich?
For best results:
- Oven: Wrap the sandwich in foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Skillet: Reheat the steak separately in a pan, then reassemble.
- Microwave (Not Recommended): If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals to prevent drying out.
7. Can I freeze shaved steak sandwiches?
You can freeze the cooked shaved steak, but it’s best to store the bread separately. To reheat, thaw the steak overnight in the fridge and warm it in a skillet before assembling the sandwich fresh.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Homemade Shaved Steak Sandwich!
Making a perfect shaved steak sandwich at home is easier than you think! By using high-quality ingredients, the right cooking techniques, and a few expert tips, you can create a sandwich that rivals any restaurant version.
🔥 Here’s a quick recap for success:
Use ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak for the best results.
Slice the meat ultra-thin for a tender bite.
Cook on high heat for a perfect sear.
Melt the cheese directly over the steak for a gooey finish.
Use toasted hoagie rolls to prevent sogginess.
Experiment with flavors and toppings to make it your own!
Now, it’s time to fire up your skillet and start cooking! Whether you go for the classic Philly cheesesteak or try a BBQ, Italian, or spicy version, this sandwich is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Enjoy your homemade shaved steak sandwich! 🍽️