Steak au Poivre Sandwich
Okay, let’s talk about something that’s going to make you feel like you’re dining at a fancy bistro, but in the comfort of your own home: the Steak au Poivre Sandwich. Picture this—tender, juicy steak coated with a punch of black pepper, all nestled in a warm, toasted bun with rich, creamy sauce drizzled over it. If you love bold flavors and savory goodness, this is your next favorite thing. Trust me, you’re going to love every bite. It’s one of those dishes that will make you feel like you’re treating yourself to something special—even on a regular Tuesday.
The combination of the pepper-crusted steak and the creamy sauce is absolutely to die for, and when you pile it all onto a fresh sandwich, it’s like magic. Seriously, this sandwich is next level. It’s the perfect mix of indulgent and comforting, and it’s just a little fancy without being overly complicated. Ready to dig in?
Why You’ll Love Steak au Poivre Sandwich
There’s so much to love about this recipe—besides the fact that it’s downright delicious! Here’s why you’re going to want to make this again and again:
Versatile
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, making a quick dinner for yourself, or treating your loved ones to a “fancy night in,” this sandwich fits the bill. It’s elevated yet approachable, and no matter the occasion, it’ll impress.
Budget-Friendly
While this might seem like a restaurant-quality dish, it’s actually super doable at home without breaking the bank. You won’t need anything too exotic or hard to find. Simple ingredients bring this whole sandwich together in a way that feels special, without costing a fortune.
Quick and Easy
Don’t let the restaurant vibes fool you—this sandwich is surprisingly easy to make! You don’t have to be a pro in the kitchen to pull it off. With just a few steps and minimal prep, you’ll be savoring that delicious steak and creamy sauce in no time.
Customizable
Love a little heat? Throw in a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick. Want to add some veggies? Sautéed mushrooms or onions would work wonderfully. This sandwich is the kind of dish that lets you get creative!
Crowd-Pleasing
This is one of those sandwiches that’s sure to get rave reviews, no matter who you’re serving it to. It’s rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent—a real crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients in Steak au Poivre Sandwich
This sandwich is all about bold flavors, so let’s break down the key ingredients:
- Steak (like filet mignon or sirloin): The star of the show. You’ll want a tender, juicy cut of steak that holds up well to the peppercorn crust. The steak is what makes this sandwich so special.
- Black Peppercorns: Coated generously on the steak for that signature pepper-crusted flavor. It’s what gives this dish its peppery kick, making each bite exciting.
- Butter: To sear the steak and give it that rich, golden brown crust. Butter makes everything better, especially when it’s used to cook steak.
- Heavy Cream: The base for that smooth, velvety sauce that brings all the richness to this sandwich.
- Beef Broth: For extra flavor in the sauce, bringing depth and richness to the entire dish.
- Shallots: These tender, slightly sweet onions give the sauce a delicate, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the peppery steak.
- Buns: A fresh, soft bun to hold it all together. Think toasted brioche or a classic sandwich roll—something sturdy enough to hold all the juicy goodness.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds an herby freshness that cuts through the richness of the steak and sauce.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions for Steak au Poivre Sandwich
Ready to make this mouthwatering sandwich? Let’s dive in!
Prepare the Steak
Start by generously coating your steak with crushed black peppercorns on both sides. This is where all the flavor comes from, so don’t be shy with the pepper! Heat a little butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak to your preferred doneness. The key here is a nice, brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Once done, let the steak rest for a few minutes.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the shallots and cook them until they’re softened and golden. Next, pour in the beef broth and let it reduce for a minute or two. Then, stir in the heavy cream and cook until the sauce thickens into a rich, velvety consistency. You want a sauce that’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Taste it and add salt if needed. This sauce is where the magic happens—it’s rich, creamy, and the perfect complement to that peppery steak.
Toast the Buns
While the sauce is simmering, toast your buns in a separate skillet or oven until they’re golden brown. You can butter them for that extra indulgent touch if you’d like. The toasty buns will add a nice crunch and help hold up to all the saucy goodness.
Assemble the Sandwich
Now it’s time to build your masterpiece! Slice the rested steak against the grain and pile it onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Drizzle that luscious creamy sauce over the top of the steak. If you’re feeling extra, you can top it with fresh herbs for a little burst of color and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
Place the top bun on, give it a little press, and voilà! You’ve got yourself a Steak au Poivre Sandwich that’ll make your taste buds sing. Serve it warm and enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Steak au Poivre Sandwich
While this sandwich is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, here are some serving ideas to elevate the meal:
- Fresh Salads: Pair it with a light, crisp salad to balance out the richness of the steak. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette would be perfect.
- French Fries or Crispy Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with fries! Crispy potatoes would be a perfect sidekick to this flavorful sandwich.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add some color and nutrition to your meal, making it feel complete.
- Pickles or a Tangy Relish: A side of tangy pickles or a mustard relish will cut through the richness of the sandwich and add a fun, zesty contrast.
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve!
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle a little cayenne pepper on the steak.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers? Store the steak and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of steak?
A1: Yes, you can use any tender cut of steak, like ribeye or sirloin. Just adjust the cooking time based on your steak’s thickness.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store the steak and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove for the best results.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: I wouldn’t recommend freezing the sauce, as it might separate when thawed. However, the steak can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat the sandwich?
A5: Reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat to preserve its tenderness. You can reheat the sauce in the same skillet or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Steak au Poivre Sandwich is a flavor-packed, decadent treat that’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to—whether it’s for a special occasion or just a regular evening that needs a little boost. With its perfectly seasoned steak, creamy sauce, and deliciously toasted bun, this sandwich is the kind of meal you’ll dream about long after the last bite. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
Print
Steak au Poivre Sandwich
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Sandwich
- Method: Pan-Frying, Sautéing, Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a flavorful Steak au Poivre Sandwich with tender ribeye steak, creamy au poivre sauce, fresh arugula, and tangy pickled onions, all nestled between toasted ciabatta. Perfect for a luxurious lunch or dinner that will satisfy your steak cravings!
Ingredients
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For the steak:
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2 boneless ribeye steaks, cut 1” thick (about 1½ pounds)
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Kosher salt, as needed
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Freshly ground black pepper, as needed
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the au poivre sauce:
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1 medium shallot, diced
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1 tablespoon cracked black peppercorns or mixed peppercorns
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¼ cup cognac, brandy, or sherry
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1 cup beef stock
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½ cup heavy cream
For the arugula salad:
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2 cups wild arugula
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1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
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2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
For the sandwich assembly:
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1 loaf ciabatta bread, cut into 4” portions and halved lengthwise, toasted
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¼ cup pickled red onions
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Instructions
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Prepare the steaks: Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
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Cook the steaks: Heat a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once heated, add the steaks and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the bottom develops a golden-brown crust. Flip the steaks, add the butter to the pan, and baste the steaks with the melted butter. Continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes, or until medium-rare (internal temperature should be 120°F / 49°C). Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly.
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Make the au poivre sauce: In the same pan, add the diced shallot and sauté for 2 minutes until tender and opaque. Add the cracked peppercorns and sauté for another minute. Add the cognac and cook for about 1 minute to burn off the alcohol. Pour in the beef stock and simmer until the sauce is reduced by half, about 4 minutes. Whisk in the cream and cook until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, about 2 minutes. Set the sauce aside.
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Prepare the arugula salad: In a medium bowl, toss the arugula with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
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Assemble the sandwich: Divide the sliced steak evenly between the bottom halves of the toasted ciabatta bread. Top each portion with the au poivre sauce, followed by a handful of the arugula salad and a spoonful of pickled red onions. Close the sandwich, cut in half, and serve immediately.
Notes
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Resting the steaks after cooking is crucial to ensure they remain juicy and tender.
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You can substitute the cognac with brandy or sherry based on your preference or availability.
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For a lighter version, you could use a whole grain ciabatta or a low-fat cream alternative in the au poivre sauce.
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These sandwiches are perfect for a luxurious lunch or dinner but can also be served with a side of fries or a simple green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg