Description
Caramelized Onion & Beef Sandwich
Ingredients
2 large hoagie rolls
1 lb shredded beef (leftover or freshly cooked)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt & pepper to taste
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Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
Stir occasionally and let cook for about 15-20 minutes until soft and golden brown.
Add sugar and Worcestershire sauce to enhance flavor.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Reheat the shredded beef in a pan over medium heat. Add a little broth or water to keep it moist.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise and place a layer of beef on each roll.
Top with caramelized onions and slices of cheese.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts.
5. Serve:
Serve hot.
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by thinly slicing two large onions. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter with 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring only occasionally to allow for browning. When the onions are soft and golden, stir in 1 tsp of sugar and 1 tsp of Worcestershire sauce; cook for 2 more minutes. While the onions cook, reheat 1 lb of shredded beef in a separate pan with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice two hoagie rolls lengthwise and layer the warm beef on the bottom halves. Top generously with the caramelized onions and place two slices of provolone or Swiss cheese on each. Assemble on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty sandwich is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad to cut through the richness. For a classic pub-style meal, serve with a side of dill pickle spears and crispy potato chips or french fries. A cold beer, a robust red wine, or an iced tea are perfect beverage pairings.
How-to Summary
To make this sandwich, slowly caramelize sliced onions with butter, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Reheat shredded beef to keep it moist. Layer the beef and onions on hoagie rolls, top with cheese, and bake briefly to melt the cheese. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the caramelized onions ahead of time?
Absolutely. Caramelized onions can be made 3-4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling your sandwich.
What’s the best cut of beef to use for shredding?
Chuck roast, brisket, or short ribs are excellent for slow cooking until tender enough to shred. Leftover pot roast or pulled beef is ideal.
How can I make this sandwich in an air fryer?
Assemble the sandwich and wrap it loosely in foil. Air fry at 350°F for 5-6 minutes to melt the cheese and warm everything through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes. Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or even a pepper jack would work well for a different flavor profile.
My onions are burning instead of caramelizing. What am I doing wrong?
Your heat is likely too high. Caramelization requires low, slow cooking. Reduce the heat and be patient; the process should take at least 15-20 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the Onions: Cooking onions over high heat will fry or burn them, not caramelize them. Patience is key.
- Using Dry Beef: Reheating the shredded beef without added moisture can make it tough and dry. Always use a splash of broth, water, or gravy.
- Skipping the Sugar: The small amount of sugar is crucial for accelerating the Maillard reaction and achieving a deep, sweet flavor.
- Overstuffing the Roll: Piling on too much filling can make the sandwich messy and difficult to eat. Aim for a balanced, even layer.
Conclusion
The Caramelized Onion & Beef Sandwich is a masterclass in transforming simple, savory ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal. The sweet, umami-rich onions perfectly complement the tender, shredded beef, all brought together by melted cheese on a toasted roll. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create this restaurant-quality sandwich at home. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for using leftovers or for a deliberate and delicious weekend lunch.