Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant features tender, seasoned beef and melted cheddar cheese nestled inside a flaky, buttery croissant, delivering a savory and satisfying handheld meal.
Equipments
- Oven
- Slicer (for beef)
- Saucepan (for cheddar cheese sauce)
- Tongs
- Baking sheet
- Serving tray
- Ladle (for cheese sauce)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) beef top sirloin or round
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 4 large croissants
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Use top sirloin or round beef for the best texture and flavor in Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant, as these cuts provide tenderness when cooked properly. Season the beef evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, kosher salt, and black pepper to replicate the signature savory profile. Preparing the cheddar cheese sauce with sharp cheddar, whole milk, unsalted butter, and flour is essential for achieving a creamy, rich consistency that complements the beef perfectly. Ensure your croissants are high-quality and fresh to maintain the flaky, buttery texture that balances the hearty filling. Your homemade Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant will capture the indulgent and satisfying taste of the original from Portillo's popular copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven.
- Slice beef thinly using slicer.
- In saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and paprika; stir until smooth and melted.
- Season beef with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, pepper.
- Heat a skillet; cook beef until browned.
- Add beef broth; simmer until tender.
- Slice croissants horizontally on cutting board.
- Layer cooked beef onto croissant bottoms.
- Ladle cheddar cheese sauce over beef.
- Close croissants; place on baking sheet.
- Warm sandwiches in oven until croissants are lightly toasted and cheese is melted.
- Transfer to serving tray.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant from the copycat menu replicates the luxurious combination of seasoned beef and melty cheddar within a buttery croissant. You can substitute top sirloin with ground beef or thinly sliced roast beef if preferred cuts are unavailable, adjusting cooking times accordingly. If sharp cheddar is difficult to source, other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used, though flavor and melting properties will vary. When making the cheese sauce, ensure the flour is properly cooked with butter to avoid a raw taste and achieve smoothness. Reheat croissants briefly in the oven to maintain their flaky texture without becoming soggy.
Tips
Ensure the beef is sliced uniformly thin to promote even cooking and tenderness, using the slicer carefully to avoid injury. Whisk the cheddar cheese sauce continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture. Use tongs to handle the beef during cooking for even browning and to avoid piercing the meat, which can release juices and dry it out. When warming the assembled croissants, monitor closely to prevent over-toasting; your goal is a lightly toasted, flaky croissant with fully melted cheese inside.
Nutritions
Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant combines protein-rich beef top sirloin with calcium-packed sharp cheddar cheese, offering a balanced source of essential nutrients. The croissant contributes carbohydrates and fats from its buttery, flaky layers, providing energy and satiety. Olive oil delivers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and the inclusion of herbs and spices like oregano and basil adds antioxidants and flavor without extra calories. Your meal supplies a satisfying mix of macronutrients and micronutrients, ideal for fueling your day.
Storage
Store leftover Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat your sandwich in the oven at 350degF (175degC) for about 10 minutes to restore its flaky texture and warm the beef and cheese thoroughly. Avoid microwaving to prevent the croissant from becoming soggy and to preserve the savory flavors.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute beef top sirloin with thinly sliced ribeye or flank steak to add extra tenderness and flavor. Instead of cheddar cheese sauce, try a blend of gruyere and mozzarella melted with a splash of cream for a richer, creamier texture. You can also add sauteed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the beef before layering for enhanced savory depth. Toasting the croissants with a brush of garlic butter before assembling amplifies the buttery aroma and crispiness.
Allergies
Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant contains common allergens such as wheat from the croissants and all-purpose flour, dairy from cheddar cheese and whole milk, and butter. If you have allergies to gluten or lactose, this meal may cause adverse reactions. You should carefully check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Portillo's Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant stands out for its perfect blend of savory Italian beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a buttery, flaky croissant that creates a unique flavor experience. The depth of seasoning in the slow-cooked beef combined with creamy cheese offers a satisfying, indulgent taste that keeps customers coming back. Making a copycat version at home allows you to recreate this iconic sandwich with control over ingredient quality and customization to suit your personal taste preferences. Your homemade Beef-n-Cheddar Croissant can capture the beloved essence of Portillo's while offering a fresh, tailored dining experience.