Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw

By Emily Cookson | December 22, 2024 | No comments

534.Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw 1

I discovered this grilled steak sandwich with its creamy blue cheese coleslaw because it’s incredibly simple to make. The juicy steak, tangy coleslaw, and harmonious flavor combination make it an irresistible choice for any occasion. 

The first time I made this grilled steak sandwich, it was a spontaneous kitchen experiment turned family favorite. I wanted to create something luxurious yet uncomplicated and found that grilling steak for sandwiches brought a whole new flavor dynamic to our meal table. 

Why is this recipe special? It takes minimal effort but yields gourmet results—perfect for a busy weeknight or an indulgent weekend treat. This recipe not only saves time but also delivers a flavor experience that’s both comforting and exciting for your taste buds. 

Why You’ll Love Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw?

  • Simplicity: This recipe uses basic ingredients and straightforward grilling techniques that anyone can master.
  • Rich Flavor: The combination of juicy steak and zesty blue cheese coleslaw creates layers of unforgettably bold taste.
  • Versatility: It’s adaptable for various occasions—from casual dinners to a focal point in a gourmet picnic.
  • Consistency: Designed to provide perfect results every time, regardless of your cooking skill level—no advanced culinary expertise required.
  • Balance: Expertly balances tender steak textures with the crispness of fresh coleslaw to deliver satisfying mouthfuls.
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Ingredients Notes

  • Steak: Choose a cut like ribeye or flank for tender, juicy bites with a robust umami profile.
  • Blue Cheese: Opt for a creamy variety that contrasts the savory steak with its sharp tang.
  • Cabbage: Provides crunchy texture; use fresh, crisp leaves for the best coleslaw base.
  • Mayonnaise: Adds smooth richness to the coleslaw, binding flavors together.
  • Bread: Choose thick, sturdy cuts like ciabatta or sourdough to hold fillings without becoming soggy.

How to Make Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw?

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  • Prepare the Steak: Season your steak with salt and pepper, preheat your grill to medium-high, and sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side. Let it rest before slicing thinly. 
  • Make the Coleslaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, crumbled blue cheese, mayonnaise, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix until well-coated. 
  • Assemble the Sandwich: Toast your preferred bread slices lightly on the grill for a touch of crunch. Layer slices of steak onto one side, followed by a generous spoonful of coleslaw. Top with the other slice and press gently. 
  • Serve and Enjoy: Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately with your choice of sides. 

How to Make Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw?

Creating a delicious Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw involves careful attention to each step, from steak preparation to assembling the sandwich. Here’s a detailed guide to help you achieve perfection in each bite: 

  1. Season the Steak: Start by liberally seasoning the flank steak with salt and pepper. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the seasoning to enhance the meat’s flavor thoroughly.
  2. Preheat and Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Place the steak on the grill and sear it for approximately 6 minutes on each side. This should get you a nice medium-rare finish. Pay attention to the aroma of the searing steak; it should smell delicious and smoky.
  3. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and allow it to rest for about 15 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Slice thinly against the grain for tender bites.
  4. Prepare the Coleslaw: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, sweet onion, and crumbled blue cheese. For the dressing, mix the mayonnaise, buttermilk, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seeds, and celery salt until smooth. Toss with the cabbage mixture, ensuring each strand is coated.
  5. Toast the Bread: Slice the ciabatta rolls in half and place them on the grill for a quick toast until they’re slightly crunchy on the outside but soft inside.
  6. Assemble the Sandwich: Lay the thinly sliced steak over the bottom half of each roll. Top with a generous amount of the blue cheese coleslaw, ensuring the layers are well-distributed. Close with the top half and gently press to combine flavors.

Expert Cooking Tips

  • Let the flavors meld: I let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for an hour if possible.
  • Monitor grill temperature: Too high heat can overcook your steak quickly.
  • Use a meat thermometer: This ensures precise doneness—medium-rare is about 135°F internally.
  • Pat steak dry before grilling: This gives a better sear and improved texture.
  • Avoid overmixing slaw: Mix just enough to coat ingredients evenly without making it watery.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers promptly: Store in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh.
  • Keep coleslaw separate: Keep coleslaw in a different container to prevent soggy bread.
  • Freezing is not recommended: The texture won’t hold up well upon thawing.
  • Reheat steak gently: Use low heat to preserve tenderness and avoid drying out.
  • Check for spoilage: If the coleslaw develops an off-smell or texture, discard it safely.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Dairy-free option: Use a vegan blue cheese substitute and dairy-free mayonnaise.
  • Gluten-free adaptation: Opt for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps as a bread alternative.
  • Add some heat: Incorporate sliced jalapeños into the slaw for a spicy kick.
  • Try different cheeses: Swap blue cheese with gorgonzola for a milder flavor.
  • Nutty flavor: Add roasted walnuts to the coleslaw for additional crunch.
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What to Serve with Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw?

  • Sweet potato fries: Their natural sweetness complements the savory steak and tangy slaw.
  • Garden salad: Offers freshness and balances the richness of the sandwich.
  • Grilled vegetables: Enhance smoky flavors and add a healthy side option.
  • Potato chips: Provide a satisfying crunch alongside the tender steak.
  • Cooling cucumber salad: Acts as a palate cleanser, balancing the bold flavors.

FAQ

Why is my steak tough?

Ensure you slice against the grain and do not overcook.

How to prevent soggy bread?

Keep coleslaw separate until serving.

Can I use different bread?

Absolutely! Choose crusty bread like focaccia.

How to adjust salt levels?

Taste the coleslaw while preparing and adjust to preference.

Any substitution for blue cheese?

Gorgonzola or feta can work if blue cheese isn’t available.

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Grilled Steak Sandwich with Blue Cheese Coleslaw

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I discovered this grilled steak sandwich with its creamy blue cheese coleslaw because it’s incredibly simple to make.

  • Author: Emily Cookson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner Ideas
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 flank steak, preferably grass-fed (about 2 1/2 pounds)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 6 ciabatta rolls

For the Blue Cheese Coleslaw:

  • 5 cups mixed shredded cabbage (green, red, napa)
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and shredded
  • 1/2 cup minced sweet onion
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Season the steak: Generously season with salt and pepper. Rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
  • Preheat and grill: Heat grill to medium-high. Sear steak for 6 minutes per side for medium-rare. Enjoy the smoky aroma.
  • Rest and slice: Let steak rest for 15 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  • Prepare the coleslaw: Mix cabbage, carrots, sweet onion, and blue cheese. Combine dressing ingredients until smooth and toss with cabbage mix.
  • Toast the bread: Slice ciabatta rolls and grill until crunchy yet soft. 
  • Assemble the sandwich: Layer steak on roll bottoms, top with coleslaw, and press with top halves to blend flavors.

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About the author

Holly Nilsson is the creator of Spend With Pennies, where she creates easy, comforting recipes made for real life. With a passion for nostalgic flavors and simplified techniques, Holly helps busy home cooks create delicious meals that always work. She is also the author of “Everyday Comfort,” which promises to inspire even more hearty, home-cooked meals.

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