Steak and Caramelised Onion Sandwich Recipe
Introduction
This steak and caramelised onion sandwich is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. Tender steaks paired with sweet caramelised onions and peppery watercress come together in a crisp ciabatta loaf for a satisfying bite. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients
- 4 minute steaks (Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference are good) or 2 x 1cm thick sirloin steaks
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 small ciabatta loaf
- 4 tbsp caramelised onions
- Half an 85g bag watercress
Instructions
- Step 1: Put the grill on to heat. Heat a little olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Season both sides of the steaks with salt. Fry the steaks for 1-2 minutes on each side until cooked to your liking.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, slice the ciabatta loaf in half lengthways and place the cut sides under the grill. Grill until golden and toasted.
- Step 4: Drizzle the toasted ciabatta with olive oil. Spread the bottom half with caramelised onions, then place the cooked steaks on top.
- Step 5: Cover the steaks with watercress, then close the sandwich with the top half of the ciabatta.
- Step 6: Cut the sandwich into four pieces and serve two per person. Enjoy it hot for the best flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a flavor twist, use basil, lemon, or rosemary oil instead of olive oil for drizzling.
- Replace the caramelised onions with a few roasted peppers from a jar for a different sweet-savory balance.
Storage
This sandwich is best eaten fresh to enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors. If you need to store leftovers, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a grill or oven to avoid sogginess, but note the bread may not stay crispy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, rustic breads like a baguette or sourdough also work well. Just choose a bread that toasts nicely and holds the fillings without getting soggy.
How can I cook the steak if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the steaks fully in the frying pan instead, then toast the bread in the pan or an oven. The key is to get a good sear on the steak for flavor.
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Steak and Caramelised Onion Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches (serves 2 people, 2 sandwiches each) 1x
Description
This Steak & Caramelised Onion Sandwich is a deliciously hearty meal perfect for lunch or dinner, featuring tender fried minute steaks paired with sweet caramelised onions, fresh watercress, and crusty grilled ciabatta bread. Enhanced with a drizzle of olive oil, it delivers a flavorful combination of textures and tastes in a simple, easy-to-make sandwich.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 4 minute steaks (or 2 x 1cm thick sirloin steaks)
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Salt, to season
Bread and Toppings
- 1 small ciabatta loaf
- 4 tbsp caramelised onions
- Half an 85g bag of watercress
Instructions
- Prepare the grill and pan: Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting. Meanwhile, heat a small amount of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the steaks.
- Cook the steaks: Season both sides of the steaks with salt. Place them in the hot frying pan and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side until seared and cooked to your liking. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Toast the ciabatta: Slice the ciabatta loaf lengthways to create two halves. Place the cut sides under the preheated grill and toast until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble the sandwich: Drizzle the toasted ciabatta halves with a little olive oil. Spread the bottom half evenly with the caramelised onions. Lay the cooked steaks gently on top of the onions.
- Add fresh greens and close: Cover the steaks with a generous layer of fresh watercress. Place the top half of the ciabatta over the filling and press down lightly to close the sandwich.
- Serve: Cut the ciabatta into four sandwiches, serving two per person. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For a flavorful twist, try using basil, lemon, or rosemary-infused oil instead of regular olive oil for drizzling.
- Replace the caramelised onions with jarred roasted peppers for a different taste profile.
- This recipe pairs well with a crisp salad or kettle-cooked chips for a complete meal.
- To keep the sandwich juicy, avoid overcooking the steaks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: steak sandwich, caramelised onion sandwich, easy lunch, ciabatta sandwich, quick steak recipe, watercress sandwich

