Prepare to indulge in an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouth-watering Coffee-Rubbed BBQ Steak Sandwich. Thin slices of perfectly grilled, coffee-rubbed steak are lavishly piled high with creamy herbed goat cheese, tangy BBQ sauce, and sweet, smoky grilled onions, all nestled within a toasted sub roll. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor adventure!
There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of robust coffee, savory steak, and smoky BBQ sauce. When these incredible flavors converge in an epic steak sandwich, the result is truly mind-blowing. This isn’t your average sandwich; it’s a gourmet creation designed to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your grilling game. Imagine the rich aroma of coffee-infused steak mingling with the sweetness of grilled onions and the creamy tang of herbed goat cheese – a symphony of textures and tastes in every single bite.
For this unforgettable recipe, we’ve crafted an ideal balance using a unique coffee steak rub that perfectly complements a rich coffee BBQ sauce. We explored various toppings to find the ultimate pairings, settling on the harmonious blend of savory herbed goat cheese, tender grilled onions, and a delightful crunch from crispy fried onions. Yes, double the onions means double the flavor, creating a dynamic contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
The secret to this sandwich’s success lies in its thoughtful layers. Each component plays a crucial role, from the expertly seasoned and grilled steak to the perfectly toasted bread and the creamy, zesty spread. This isn’t just assembly; it’s an art form that delivers an astonishing combination of savory, sweet, tangy, and smoky notes, making it the ultimate steak sandwich experience.
Why This Coffee-Rubbed BBQ Steak Sandwich Will Be Your New Favorite
This isn’t just another steak sandwich recipe; it’s a revelation. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your culinary repertoire:
- **Unforgettable Flavor Profile:** The deep, earthy notes of the coffee rub, combined with the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce, create a flavor dimension you won’t find in typical steak sandwiches. It’s bold, nuanced, and utterly delicious.
- **Perfect Texture Harmony:** From the tender, thinly sliced steak to the meltingly soft grilled onions, the creamy goat cheese, and the satisfying crunch of crispy fried onions, every bite offers a delightful textural contrast.
- **Gourmet Yet Approachable:** While the flavors are sophisticated, the preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Impress your guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
- **Customizable Comfort Food:** This recipe serves as a fantastic foundation. Feel free to adjust the spice level, experiment with different cheeses, or add your favorite vegetables to make it truly your own.
- **Ideal for Grilling Enthusiasts:** If you love firing up the grill, this sandwich provides an excellent opportunity to showcase your grilling prowess, creating beautifully charred steak and caramelized onions.
Essential Ingredients for Your Ultimate Steak Sandwich
Crafting the perfect sandwich begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is vital:
- Coffee steak rub – This homemade rub is a game-changer. The finely ground coffee doesn’t make the steak taste like coffee, but rather deepens its savory notes, enhances its crust, and adds a beautiful, complex flavor. Click the link for the full recipe to make this amazing blend yourself, or use a high-quality store-bought version.
- Olive oil – Used for both seasoning the steak and softening the onions before grilling. A good quality extra virgin olive oil will add a subtle fruitiness, though any standard olive oil will work for this application.
- Flank steak or top sirloin – Both of these cuts are excellent choices for grilling and slicing. Flank steak is lean and flavorful, ideal when sliced against the grain. Top sirloin is also tender and hearty. Look for well-marbled cuts for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Red onion – When grilled, red onions transform into sweet, caramelized rings with a smoky edge, providing a fantastic contrast to the rich steak. Slice them uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Coffee BBQ sauce – While King’s Hawaiian Kona Coffee BBQ Sauce was once a favorite, it’s no longer widely available. Don’t fret! You can easily find an alternative coffee BBQ sauce on Amazon, or simply use your favorite robust BBQ sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even infuse your preferred BBQ sauce with a shot of espresso or a tablespoon of instant coffee for a similar depth of flavor.
- King’s Hawaiian mini sub rolls – These rolls are known for their signature sweetness and incredibly soft, fluffy texture. They provide the perfect counterpoint to the savory steak and bold sauces, and they toast beautifully on the grill. If unavailable, choose soft, slightly sweet sub rolls or brioche buns.
- Garlic herb goat cheese – This creamy, tangy cheese adds a bright, zesty element that cuts through the richness of the steak and BBQ sauce. The herbs in the cheese complement the other savory flavors perfectly. If you can’t find garlic herb goat cheese, plain goat cheese mixed with a pinch of garlic powder and dried herbs like oregano and basil will work wonderfully.
- Crispy fried onions – These add an essential layer of crunch and a hint of salty, savory flavor, providing a delightful textural contrast to the soft steak and creamy cheese. They are often found in the salad dressing or baking aisle of most supermarkets.
Mastering the Art of the Coffee-Rubbed BBQ Steak Sandwich: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this gourmet steak sandwich is a straightforward process, but paying attention to each step will ensure a truly spectacular result. Follow these instructions carefully to achieve perfection:
Preparation: The Foundation of Flavor
- **Prepare the Steak:** Begin by patting your flank steak or top sirloin dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and promotes a superior sear. Brush 1 tablespoon of olive oil evenly over all sides of the steak. This acts as a binder for the coffee rub and helps to develop a beautiful crust.
- **Apply the Coffee Rub:** Generously rub the prepared coffee steak rub over the entire surface of the steak. Ensure an even coating, pressing the rub gently into the meat. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the grill; this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively.
Grilling to Perfection: Steak and Onions
- **Preheat the Grill:** Heat your grill to medium-high heat. You want a hot grill to achieve a good sear on the steak and caramelize the onions. Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them to prevent sticking.
- **Prepare and Grill Onions:** While the grill heats, slice your red onion into sturdy rings. Rub these rings with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the oiled onion rings directly on the hot grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are tender, slightly charred, and beautifully caramelized. Remove them from the grill and set aside.
- **Grill the Steak:** Place the coffee-rubbed steak on the hot grill at the same time as you grill the onions (if space permits, or immediately after removing the onions). Grill for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium doneness. Adjust grilling time based on your preferred doneness and the thickness of your steak. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- **Sauce the Steak:** Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and immediately transfer it to a clean cutting board. While still hot, brush it generously with ¼ cup of the coffee BBQ sauce. The heat of the steak will help the sauce penetrate and create a delicious glaze.
- **Rest and Slice the Steak:** This is a crucial step! Let the steak rest for 10 minutes on the cutting board. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and moist slice. After resting, thinly slice the steak against the grain with a sharp knife. For incredibly uniform and effortless slices, I highly recommend an electric knife – it’s one of my favorite kitchen gadgets that’s surprisingly affordable and makes slicing a breeze!
Assembly: Building Your Masterpiece
- **Toast the Rolls:** Before turning off your grill, split the mini sub rolls and place them face down on the grill grates. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly golden and warmed through. This adds texture and prevents the bread from getting soggy. Remove from the grill.
- **Spread the Goat Cheese:** Generously spread the garlic herb goat cheese on the bottom half of each toasted roll. This creamy layer provides a wonderful tangy foundation for the steak.
- **Layer the Steak:** Arrange the thinly sliced, coffee-rubbed steak on top of the goat cheese. Don’t be shy – pile it high for a satisfyingly meaty sandwich.
- **Add the Finishing Touches:** Drizzle a little more of your coffee BBQ sauce over the sliced steak for an extra burst of flavor. Then, top generously with the sweet grilled red onions and a scattering of crispy fried onions for that essential crunch.
- **Serve and Enjoy:** Place the top bun on your beautifully assembled steak sandwich, and get ready to dig in! Serve immediately for the best experience.
Seriously, whose mouth isn’t watering just thinking about this incredible combination? The unique flavor of the coffee rub, perfectly paired with the coffee BBQ sauce, gives this steak sandwich a depth and richness that you absolutely have to experience to believe. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet, smoky, savory, and tangy, creating a truly memorable meal.
Tips and Variations for Your Coffee-Rubbed BBQ Steak Sandwich
To make this steak sandwich truly yours and ensure success every time, consider these additional tips and exciting variations:
Expert Grilling Tips:
- **Temperature Control:** For a perfect sear and even cooking, ensure your grill is consistently at medium-high heat. Don’t rush the preheating process.
- **Doneness:** For flank steak, medium-rare to medium is usually best for tenderness when sliced thin. Overcooking can make it tough. A meat thermometer is your best friend!
- **Against the Grain:** Always slice steak against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite incredibly tender. Look at the direction of the fibers and cut perpendicularly.
Flavor Enhancements & Substitutions:
- **Spicier Kick:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your coffee rub for a bit of heat.
- **Cheesy Alternatives:** If goat cheese isn’t your preference, consider smoked gouda, sharp provolone, or even a creamy Boursin cheese for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- **Bun Varieties:** While King’s Hawaiian rolls are fantastic, try a crusty baguette for a heartier chew, or even a pretzel bun for a savory twist.
- **Herb Power:** For extra freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the sandwich just before serving.
- **Pickled Onions:** Instead of or in addition to grilled onions, a few pickled red onions could add a bright, acidic tang.
- **DIY Crispy Onions:** If you’re feeling ambitious, thinly slice an onion, toss it in seasoned flour, and deep-fry until golden and crispy for homemade perfection.
Serving Suggestions:
This magnificent sandwich is substantial enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Consider serving it with:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Sweet potato fries or regular French fries.
- A creamy coleslaw to complement the richness.
- Grilled corn on the cob during summer months.
Make-Ahead & Storage:
- **Steak Prep:** You can rub the steak with coffee rub a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to grill.
- **Onions:** Grill the onions ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat briefly on the grill or in a pan before assembling.
- **Assembly:** This sandwich is best assembled and eaten immediately to ensure the freshest flavors and textures. The bread can get soggy if left assembled for too long.
- **Leftovers:** Store leftover sliced steak and grilled onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak gently in a pan or microwave, then assemble with fresh ingredients.
A Final Word on Flavor
The allure of this Coffee-Rubbed BBQ Steak Sandwich truly lies in its daring combination of flavors. The coffee isn’t just a novelty; it’s an enhancer, bringing out the inherent umami in the steak and creating a depth that traditional rubs simply can’t match. Paired with the robust BBQ sauce, the creamy, herbed goat cheese, and the sweet, charred onions, this sandwich is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious, hearty meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready to impress and satisfy!
More Irresistible Sandwich Recipes
After you’ve savored every bite of this scrumptious Coffee-Rubbed BBQ Steak Sandwich, be sure to explore these other popular sandwich recipes. Each one offers a unique and delightful experience!
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Coffee Rubbed BBQ Steak Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, or top sirloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons coffee rub
- 1 red onion, sliced into rings
- ½ cup coffee BBQ sauce, divided
- 6 count King’s Hawaiian mini sub rolls
- 4 ounces garlic herb goat cheese
- ½ cup crispy fried onions
Instructions
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Brush 1 tablespoon of olive oil all over the flank steak, then rub on all sides with the coffee rub.
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Heat a grill to medium-high heat.
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Rub the onions, sliced into rings, with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil on all sides, then place them on the grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
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At the same time, add the steak to the grill for 4-6 minutes per side.
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Remove the steak from the grill and place on a cutting board, immediately brush the steak with ¼ cup of the coffee BBQ sauce.
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Let the steak rest for 10 minutes, then thinly slice the steak.
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Before turning the heat off on the grill, place the sub rolls on the grill inside face down for 2-3 minutes to toast.
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Remove from the grill and spread the garlic herb goat cheese on the bottom of each roll.
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Place the sliced steak on top of the goat cheese.
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Drizzle the additional BBQ sauce on top of the steak, then top with the grilled and crispy onions.
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Place the top bun on the steak sandwich and dig in!