Air Fryer Steak Melt

Ingredients You Need

• Juicy steak slices. Go with leftover Ribeye steak, cut-up steak bites, or Skirt steak. 
• Cheese. I like Provolone for its slightly sweet and nutty taste and snow-white color. It pairs nicely with the steak and adds a great flavor. Swiss cheese brings a bold flavor that melts very well over the steak, while cheddar offers creamy yet sharp notes for an unforgettable experience. 
• Bread. It’s important to pick a fresh slice that will really soak up the steak’s juices as they melt into it. I highly recommend a classic white or rye sandwich loaf or something more artisanal like sourdough. Ciabatta is another great option, as its chewy center and crisp exterior make for an incredibly satisfying bite.
• Mayo. Spread it on each slice of bread.
• Veggies. To make the meal even more flavorful, add some vegetables. For the best results, use mushrooms, peppers, onions, and tomatoes for a classic combination with steak. A little bit of sautéed garlic adds a nice touch as well. For a heartier consistency, add roasted eggplant or zucchini.

How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Cheesy Steak Sandwich

1. Start by preheating your air fryer to 375° degrees Fahrenheit (190° C).
2. Assemble – While it is preheating, begin assembling your sandwich by spreading a thin layer of mayo or butter on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Sprinkle Italian or seasoning of choice on the buttered side.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
5. Arrange slices of steak and veggies on the bread and top with cheese.
6. Place the sandwich directly onto the air fryer basket (or tray). I like to air fry it as an “open-face” and give the chance to veggies and cheese to caramelize.
7. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is nicely toasted and golden brown; the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.

Best Cuts of Meat for Cheesesteak Sandwiches

• Ribeye. This cut of meat gives you the juiciest and most flavorful sandwich. The marbling on the steak adds extra tenderness to each bite. The big flavor of the ribeye goes perfectly with bold condiments such as pesto, blue cheese, and tomato jam for an unforgettable sandwich experience.
• Skirt steak. It is leaner than ribeye, but it brings an intense beefy flavor that pairs nicely with bold ingredients like garlic, horseradish mayo, or chilies to make a sandwich your friends and family won't soon forget.
• Top sirloin. This cut of meat has a great flavor and retains its moisture, making it an excellent choice for sandwiches. It also slices easily, so you'll have nicely shaped pieces of beef to top your bread. What's more, top sirloin has the right amount of fat content to give it that perfectly rich flavor while remaining lean enough to provide a healthy meal.
• London broil will give you a flavorful and economical cut of beef, making it ideal for air fryer steak melts. Not only is it full of rich flavor, but it’s also less expensive than other cuts like ribeye or sirloin.

Can I freeze Cooked Steak?

Yes! Freezing the steak will help to preserve its flavor and texture for longer than leaving it in the fridge. I love freezing steak to meal-prep for busy weeks! To freeze your cooked steak correctly, make sure you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil so that air does not get into the package. Then place the wrapped steak in heavy-duty freezer bags.

Pro-tip: Cut your steak into smaller pieces before freezing as this will make thawing more efficient later on. After your steak is successfully wrapped up, label the package and freeze overnight. When you're ready to enjoy your steak a few weeks later, just thaw it out in the refrigerator and then cook it as desired!

What to Serve with Air Fryer Cheese Steak

• To complement the flavors in the cheesy steak, I like to serve side dishes that balance its boldness without overpowering it. My top choices would be a salad with a bright vinaigrette dressing or a crisp coleslaw.
• Roasted potatoes.
• Vegetables. Broccoli, roasted cauliflower, and asparagus are all perfect additional sides for a steak sandwich. I love adding these cooked veggies for great contrast and added nutrition too. I feel that these vegetable options create a more complete sandwich while adding satisfying crunch and flavor.

More Hearty and Cheesy Air Fryer Sandwiches

• Air Fryer Tuna Melt
• Onion Grilled Cheese
• Air Fryer Grilled Caprese