When it comes to satisfying, hearty sandwiches, the classic cheesesteak is hard to beat. But for those who crave an extra kick of heat, these Spicy Ribeye Cheesesteak Subs offer a mouthwatering twist. Packed with tender ribeye steak, melty pepper jack cheese, and the fiery bite of jalapeños, these subs are a must-try for spice lovers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a game day feast, these sandwiches are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
The secret to a perfect cheesesteak lies in the quality of the ingredients and the method of preparation. By freezing the ribeye steaks before slicing, you can achieve paper-thin cuts that cook evenly and absorb the rich flavors of the seasonings. The combination of caramelized onions, spicy jalapeños, and two types of cheese—pepper jack for a kick and Colby jack for creaminess—creates a layered and dynamic flavor profile. Let’s dive into how you can make these sizzling subs at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these spicy ribeye cheesesteak subs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 thin ribeye steaks 1/2″ thick
- Olive oil as needed, plus a tablespoon or two for cooking
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 white onions thinly chopped
- 4 jalapeños thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter plus more for cooking
- 8 slices pepper jack cheese
- Sub buns
- Colby jack cheese amount as needed
Step-by-Step Directions
Here’s how to make these spicy ribeye cheesesteak subs:
- Start by freezing the ribeye steaks for 30 minutes; this helps in shaving them very thinly with ease.
- Season the shaved meat evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to ensure every piece is flavorful.
- Thinly chop the white onions and slice the jalapeños, preparing them for cooking.
- On the griddle, heat a mix of butter and olive oil, then add the onions and jalapeños. Season with a little salt and cook until the onions are soft and translucent. Once done, move them to a cooler part of the griddle to keep warm.
- Add a little more butter to the griddle, then lay out the sliced meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to sear and brown, then toss and mix to cook evenly.
- Combine the cooked onions and jalapeños back with the meat, stirring them together for a uniform mix.
- Place slices of pepper jack cheese over the meat and vegetable mixture, allowing the cheese to melt and blend into the mixture, creating a creamy, spicy filling.
- Meanwhile, toast the sub buns on the griddle until they’re golden and crispy, adding an extra layer of texture to your cheesesteak.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing slices of Colby jack cheese on the toasted buns, then heap the meat and vegetable mixture on top. The heat from the meat will help melt the Colby jack cheese, adding a gooey deliciousness.
- Serve the sandwiches hot, ensuring every bite is packed with the juicy, cheesy goodness of your homemade spicy cheesesteak.
Tips for Perfect Cheesesteak Subs
- Don’t Skip the Freezing Step: Freezing the ribeye briefly makes it much easier to slice thinly, which is key to achieving the tender texture that’s essential for a great cheesesteak.
- Control the Heat: If you want to dial back the spiciness, reduce the number of jalapeños or use a milder cheese like Monterey jack in place of pepper jack.
- Add Extra Toppings: For an even heartier sandwich, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also add extra layers of flavor.
- Serve with a Side: These subs pair perfectly with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or a simple green salad to balance out the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef? A: While ribeye is preferred for its tenderness and rich flavor, you can substitute with other cuts like sirloin or flank steak. Just be sure to slice them thinly to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a griddle? A: Yes, you can use a large skillet or cast-iron pan if you don’t have a griddle. The key is to ensure the pan is hot enough to sear the meat and cook the vegetables evenly.
Q: How do I reduce the spice level? A: To reduce the heat, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños before cooking or use fewer jalapeños. You can also substitute a milder cheese in place of pepper jack.
Q: Can I make these cheesesteaks ahead of time? A: The meat and vegetable mixture can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to toast the buns and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
Q: Are there any vegetarian alternatives? A: Yes! For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ribeye with portobello mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. The cooking process remains the same.
Conclusion
Sizzling Jalapeño Ribeye Cheesesteak Subs are a flavorful, spicy take on a classic sandwich that’s sure to satisfy any craving. With tender ribeye steak, caramelized onions, fiery jalapeños, and melty cheese all packed into a crispy sub bun, these subs are an explosion of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging in a special weeknight treat, these cheesesteaks will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
So, grab your ingredients and fire up the griddle—these spicy ribeye cheesesteak subs are waiting to be devoured!