Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwiches: Your Ultimate Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Meal
Discover how to transform a simple sandwich into a gourmet dinner experience with savory sirloin steak, robust Italian tomato sauce, and perfectly melted cheese, all served on crisp, crusty bread. Get ready to turn up sandwich night!
Life can sometimes throw a wrench in our plans, and recently, a stubborn cold decided to make our household its temporary residence. While I usually pride myself on my resilience against sniffles, this time, I wasn’t so lucky. My 8-year-old son bounced back in a day and a half, but I’m on day three, still battling a significant energy drain. Thankfully, my wonderful husband has stepped up to handle dinner the past few nights, allowing me some much-needed rest and recovery. But I’m eager to get my energy back because my mind is buzzing with new baking and dinner ideas I’m excited to experiment with!
Why These Open Face Sandwiches Are a Weeknight Game Changer
Whether I’m feeling under the weather or just navigating the usual chaos of a busy week, I’m always on the hunt for quick and effortless dinner solutions. With an 8-year-old who juggles homework, sports practices, clubs, and various other activities, evenings are precious. By the time we finally settle in at home, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove. My ideal weeknight meal allows us to eat at a reasonable time, leaving ample opportunity for relaxation and quality family time before bedtime.
While traditional sandwiches are a go-to for speed, they can become monotonous surprisingly fast. That’s where these incredible Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwiches come into play. They don’t just elevate sandwich night; they completely transform it into a gourmet experience that feels both indulgent and incredibly easy to prepare. This recipe is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and satisfying.
What Exactly is Steak Pizzaiola?
The term “Pizzaiola” might sound fancy, but its meaning is wonderfully straightforward: “pizza style.” Traditionally, a dish prepared alla pizzaiola typically features meat, often steak, cooked in a rich, rustic tomato sauce infused with classic Italian flavors like garlic and oregano. Imagine all the delicious components of a pizza – a vibrant tomato base, savory elements, and gooey cheese – but presented in a comforting, hearty steak format. This particular recipe takes that concept and adapts it perfectly for an open-face sandwich. We thinly slice tender sirloin steak, simmer it in an aromatic Italian tomato sauce, and then pile it high onto slices of robust, crusty bread. The grand finale? A generous layer of cheese that melts into a golden, bubbling perfection under the broiler.
These Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwiches embody the very essence of comfort food. They’re warm, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, yet surprisingly wholesome. And here’s a secret: they’re incredibly versatile! If sirloin isn’t on hand, you can easily substitute it with chicken, pork, or even turkey. Each of these proteins pairs beautifully with the robust Italian tomato sauce and the irresistible melted cheese, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. This adaptability makes it a fantastic recipe to keep in your repertoire for whenever you need a quick, delicious, and customizable meal.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Pizzaiola Sandwich Recipe
- Lightning Fast: With only 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cook time, you can have a gourmet-level meal on the table in just 20 minutes. Perfect for those crazy weeknights!
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of perfectly seasoned sirloin, a homemade Italian tomato sauce rich with garlic and oregano, and melted mozzarella creates a flavor profile that’s both robust and incredibly satisfying.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, open-face sandwich piled high with savory steak and bubbling cheese. It’s hearty without being overly heavy.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily swap out the steak for other proteins like chicken or pork. Experiment with different types of cheese or add extra vegetables to the sauce.
- Family Favorite: This dish is a proven crowd-pleaser. The familiar flavors of pizza combined with tender steak make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwich starts with understanding the role each ingredient plays. Here’s a closer look:
- Sirloin Steak: We use 1 pound of sirloin, trimmed and cut into 1/4-inch slices. Sirloin is a great choice because it’s flavorful and tender when cooked quickly. Substitution: Flank steak, skirt steak, or even thin-cut chicken breast or pork loin can work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Olive Oil: Essential for searing the steak and building the sauce base. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the steak and sauce. Don’t underestimate their power!
- Garlic: Two cloves, minced, provide the aromatic foundation of our Italian sauce. Fresh garlic is key here for its pungent, sweet notes.
- Dried Oregano: A quintessential Italian herb, oregano adds a warm, earthy flavor that defines the “pizzaiola” style.
- 28-ounce can Whole Tomatoes, Undrained: The heart of our sauce. Using whole tomatoes and crushing them yourself provides a fresher, more vibrant flavor and better texture than pre-diced or pureed options. The juice adds liquid for simmering.
- Crusty Bread (Ciabatta): Four 1-inch-thick slices. Ciabatta is ideal for its sturdy crust and airy interior, holding up well to the sauce. Substitution: French bread, sourdough, or any other crusty loaf will work.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: About 2 ounces, for that perfect melty, gooey topping. Substitution: Provolone, a blend of Italian cheeses, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can be used.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish. Fresh basil adds a burst of freshness and a beautiful aroma that complements the rich tomato sauce perfectly. Don’t skip this if you can help it!
Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwiches
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Ingredients
- 1 pound sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 4 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, undrained
- 4 1-inch-thick slices ciabatta (or other crusty) bread
- 2 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
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Preheat broiler to high.
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Toss sliced steak with 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
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Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add steak, and cook for about 2 minutes or until browned. Remove from the pan.
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Using a fork, potato masher, your hands, or even a food processor crush the tomatoes.
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Reduce heat to medium-high. Add remaining 1 Tbls oil to pan. Add garlic, and cook for 30 seconds. Add oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper, and tomatoes. Reduce heat, and simmer for 6 minutes. Add the steak back to the pan, tossing to coat.
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Place slices of bread on a baking sheet; broil 1 minute on each side, or until lightly toasted. Spoon about 1/4 cup of steak/tomato mixture onto toasted bread. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the slices of bread.
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Broil for about 2 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown. Sprinkle with fresh basil to serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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Step-by-Step Cooking Guidance for Perfect Pizzaiola Sandwiches
Follow these detailed steps to create your mouth-watering Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwiches:
- Prepare for Broiling: Start by preheating your broiler to high. This ensures it’s ready to perfectly toast your bread and melt your cheese when the time comes.
- Season the Steak: Take your thinly sliced sirloin steak and toss it in a bowl with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure each slice is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Add the seasoned steak slices in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 2 minutes, or until the steak is beautifully browned. Quick searing locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.
- Prepare the Tomatoes: While the skillet is still warm, prepare your canned whole tomatoes. You can use a fork, a potato masher, your hands (carefully!), or even a food processor to crush them to your desired consistency. This creates a rustic, flavorful base for your sauce.
- Build the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the dried oregano, another 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine Steak and Sauce: Return the seared steak slices to the pan with the simmering tomato sauce. Toss gently to ensure every piece of steak is thoroughly coated in the rich, aromatic sauce.
- Toast the Bread: While the sauce simmers, arrange your ciabatta slices on a baking sheet. Place them under the preheated broiler for 1 minute on each side, or until they’re lightly golden and perfectly toasted. This creates a sturdy, flavorful base for your sandwiches.
- Assemble and Broil: Spoon about 1/4 cup of the delicious steak and tomato mixture onto each slice of toasted bread, spreading it evenly. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each sandwich.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the baking sheet to the broiler. Cook for about 2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it, until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the sandwiches from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your elevated sandwich night!
Tips for Achieving Steak Pizzaiola Perfection
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When searing the steak, cook it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will steam the meat instead of browning it, leading to less flavorful results.
- Thin Slices are Key: Cutting the sirloin into 1/4-inch slices ensures it cooks quickly and remains tender, absorbing the sauce beautifully.
- Quality Tomatoes Matter: A good quality can of whole San Marzano or other plum tomatoes will make a noticeable difference in the richness and sweetness of your sauce.
- Watch the Broiler Closely: Broilers can be very powerful. Keep a constant eye on your bread and cheese to prevent burning, as cooking times can vary depending on your oven.
- Fresh Basil for Finish: The fresh basil isn’t just for looks; it adds a bright, aromatic counterpoint to the savory steak and rich tomato sauce. Add it just before serving for maximum impact.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before adding the steak back in and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
Serving Suggestions for Your Steak Pizzaiola
These hearty open-face sandwiches are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a few simple sides to create a complete and satisfying dinner:
- Crisp Green Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is the perfect counterpoint to the rich flavors of the steak and sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers roasted with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper make a healthy and delicious side.
- Simple Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and a light Italian dressing can complement the meal beautifully.
- Garlic Bread or Crostini: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve additional garlic bread or crostini to mop up any leftover sauce.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
One of the best things about this Steak Pizzaiola recipe is how easily it can be adapted for meal prep, making your weeknights even smoother!
- Make Ahead the Steak Pizzaiola Mixture: The steak and tomato sauce mixture can be prepared entirely in advance. Cook it according to the recipe, then let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes assembly on a busy night incredibly fast.
- Store Leftovers: If you have any assembled sandwiches leftover (though it’s unlikely!), they are best eaten fresh. However, if you store them, the bread might become a bit soggy. It’s better to store the steak and sauce mixture separately from any leftover toasted bread.
- Reheating: To reheat the steak and sauce mixture, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. You can toast fresh bread slices and assemble the sandwiches just before serving. If you must reheat an assembled sandwich, do so in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed and the cheese is re-melted, being careful not to burn the bread.
Exciting Variations to Experiment With
While the classic Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwich is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to get creative and customize it to your taste:
- Add More Veggies: Sauté sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the garlic before adding the tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce will give these sandwiches a delightful warmth and spicy edge.
- Herb Power: Beyond oregano and basil, consider adding fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary to the simmering sauce for added complexity.
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is traditional, consider a blend of mozzarella and provolone, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a sharper flavor.
- Different Proteins: As mentioned, chicken or pork loin are excellent substitutes for steak. You could also try ground beef or Italian sausage for a different texture.
- Garlic Bread Base: Instead of plain toasted ciabatta, rub the bread slices with a cut garlic clove or brush them with garlic butter before toasting for an extra layer of flavor.
Ready to try this incredible recipe? These Steak Pizzaiola Open Face Sandwiches are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. They bring the vibrant, comforting flavors of Italy right into your kitchen with minimal effort. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, rushing through a busy weeknight, or simply craving something utterly delicious, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. So grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and prepare to elevate your dinner game!
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