Name: Tri-Tip Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 pounds cooked tri-tip steak, thinly sliced; 4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns; 4 slices provolone or cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish (optional)

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There’s something magical about a well-crafted Tri-Tip Sandwich: tender slices of juicy steak, nestled inside a toasty roll, mingling with caramelized onions, vibrant peppers, and just the right amount of creamy horseradish mayo. This sandwich isn’t just a crowd-pleaser; it’s the perfect answer for leftover tri-tip or an excuse to fire up the grill for something truly special. Each bite brings savory comfort and a burst of flavor—trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long grocery list to make an unforgettable Tri-Tip Sandwich. Every ingredient here plays a starring role, from the bold steak to the oozy cheese. Gather these essentials and get ready to impress with just a handful of top-quality items.

Tri-tip steak (1 1/2 pounds, cooked, thinly sliced): The heart of your sandwich—rich, juicy, and packed with beefy flavor that truly stands out.
Sandwich rolls or hoagie buns (4): Choose rolls with a slight chew and enough heft to handle all the fillings without getting soggy.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the vegetables, bringing out their sweetness and adding depth.
Yellow onion (1 large, thinly sliced): Delivers a sweet caramelized layer that pairs perfectly with steak.
Green bell pepper (1, thinly sliced): Adds a fresh, grassy bite and a pop of vibrant color.
Provolone or cheddar cheese (4 slices): Melty cheese is the glue that holds everything together—pick your favorite or try both!
Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Creamy and rich, it forms the base of your slather for extra moisture.
Prepared horseradish (1 tablespoon, optional): A zippy kick that cuts through the richness (highly recommended for heat-lovers).
Salt and pepper (to taste): For perfect seasoning every step of the way.

How to Make Tri-Tip Sandwich

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Peppers

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté everything for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies become soft and just start to caramelize. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen fills with the smell of sweet, browned onions—don’t rush this step, as it brings out essential flavors that will make your Tri-Tip Sandwich pop!

Step 2: Make the Horseradish Mayo

While your vegetables are working their magic, mix together the mayonnaise and prepared horseradish (if using) in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the amount of horseradish to suit your heat preference; you want a punchy but balanced spread. Slather this mixture onto both the top and bottom of each sandwich roll to ensure every bite gets that irresistible creamy tang.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Next, layer the bottom halves of each roll with slices of warm tri-tip steak. If your tri-tip is straight from the fridge, just give it a quick warm-up in the skillet or microwave for about a minute. Pile on the sautéed onions and peppers, making sure to distribute them evenly for a bite of veggie goodness in every mouthful.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Toast

Top your loaded sandwiches with a slice of provolone or cheddar cheese. Place the sandwiches (open-faced, if you like extra melt) on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated 375°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Watch for that moment when the cheese bubbles and the rolls turn golden—this is when everything comes together!

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once toasted, set the tops on your sandwiches and serve right away while they’re still hot and melty. This Tri-Tip Sandwich is best fresh from the oven with cheese stretching gloriously as you bite in—so don’t wait too long!

How to Serve Tri-Tip Sandwich

Garnishes

A Tri-Tip Sandwich shines even brighter with the right finishing touches. Add a handful of fresh arugula for peppery crunch, a few pickled jalapeños for a tangy punch, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for an extra pop of flavor. If you want even more layers, try a few thin slices of ripe tomato or a dollop of Dijon mustard.

Side Dishes

Complete your Tri-Tip Sandwich meal with crispy oven fries, a simple green salad, or bright coleslaw. Chips, dill pickle spears, or grilled corn also make fantastic (and easy) sides. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying plate that hits every comfort note.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the standard and impress your guests by cutting the sandwiches in half and skewering each one with a pickle or olive-topped toothpick. For casual parties, serve mini versions as sliders. Or, lay out a build-your-own Tri-Tip Sandwich bar with extra toppings, sauces, and different cheeses so everyone can customize their perfect bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Tri-Tip Sandwich components, store the sliced steak, sautéed vegetables, and mayo mixture in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Rolls keep best wrapped in foil or a plastic bag to maintain their softness for up to two days.

Freezing

You can freeze extra cooked tri-tip steak for future sandwich assemblies—just slice it and store in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing assembled sandwiches, as the bread and veggies can get soggy.

Reheating

Warm the steak gently in a skillet or microwave, and re-toast the bread in the oven or toaster to restore its crispness. For the cheese, assemble the sandwich and heat just until melted. This keeps everything warm and delicious without overcooking the meat.

FAQs

Can I make this Tri-Tip Sandwich using other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can! While tri-tip has a unique flavor and tenderness, thinly sliced roast beef, flank steak, or even leftover grilled steak will work beautifully. Just adjust the seasoning to taste and make sure the meat is sliced as thin as possible.

What kind of bread is best for Tri-Tip Sandwich?

Sturdy sandwich rolls or hoagie buns are ideal because they hold up well with juicy fillings and toasting. If you prefer something lighter, try ciabatta or a crusty baguette—just keep an eye out for rolls that aren’t too soft, so they don’t fall apart.

Do I need to use horseradish in the mayo?

Horseradish is totally optional but highly recommended for those who love a little extra zing. If you’re not a fan, simply stick with plain mayo or add a squirt of Dijon mustard for a milder tang.

Can I grill the Tri-Tip Sandwich instead of baking?

Absolutely, grilling on a panini press or grill pan gives your sandwich a smoky depth and those fabulous grill marks. Just press the sandwich until the cheese melts and the bread is golden for a delicious twist.

What’s the best way to keep the cheese from spilling out?

Place your cheese slice atop the meat and veggies, and when toasting, press the sandwich gently. As long as your baking sheet is level and you keep an eye out, you’ll have oozy but contained cheese in every bite.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a sandwich that’s incredibly satisfying, loaded with flavor, and just the right mix of comforting and exciting, the Tri-Tip Sandwich is your answer. Make it once, and it’ll quickly earn a spot in your regular recipe rotation—it’s truly one of those meals you’ll look forward to sharing again and again!

Tri-Tip Sandwich Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a delicious Tri-Tip Sandwich packed with thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and melted cheese, all nestled in a warm hoagie bun. This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy leftover tri-tip in a mouthwatering new way!

Ingredients

Scale

Caramelized Onions and Peppers:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds cooked tri-tip steak, thinly sliced
4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns
4 slices provolone or cheddar cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish (optional)

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Instructions

Caramelize Onions and Peppers: In a skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper until soft and caramelized.
Prepare Sandwiches: Mix mayonnaise and horseradish, spread on rolls. Layer with tri-tip, onions, peppers, and cheese.
Toast: Bake sandwiches at 375°F until cheese melts and bread is crisp.