Chipotle Steak & Cheddar from Quiznos features tender, smoky chipotle-seasoned steak, melted sharp cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, all layered inside a toasted, warm sub roll for a bold and satisfying flavor experience.
Equipments
- Oven (for toasting subs)
- Grill or griddle (for cooking steak)
- Cheese slicer or shredder
- Knife (for slicing vegetables and bread)
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Sandwich assembly counter/table
- Food pans or containers (for ingredients)
- Spatula
- Sub roll/bread knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chipotle seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 4 sub rolls
- Salt
- Black pepper
Choosing high-quality sirloin or ribeye steak ensures tender, flavorful results when seasoned with chipotle and cooked on a grill or griddle. Use sharp cheddar cheese, either sliced or shredded, to melt perfectly over the steak for that signature bold taste. Fresh, crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes add a refreshing contrast, so slice them evenly for consistent texture in every bite. Toasting the sub rolls in the oven enhances the sandwich's warmth and crunch, making each layer distinct and satisfying. Your Chipotle Steak & Cheddar from Quiznos copycat menu will deliver an authentic smoky and cheesy flavor combination reminiscent of the original.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven for toasting the sub rolls.
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Slice the steak thinly, if not pre-sliced.
- Season steak with chipotle seasoning, salt, and black pepper; mix well.
- Drizzle olive oil onto the grill or griddle.
- Cook the seasoned steak on the grill/griddle until browned and cooked through; use tongs and spatula as needed.
- Slice or shred the sharp cheddar cheese.
- Slice tomatoes and prepare shredded lettuce.
- Slice sub rolls open using the bread knife.
- Place cooked steak onto sub rolls, followed by cheddar cheese.
- Toast the assembled steak and cheese subs in the oven until the cheese melts and bread is golden.
- Remove from oven and add fresh shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes.
- Close the subs and cut in half, if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Chipotle Steak & Cheddar copycat sandwich from Quiznos combines smoky chipotle-seasoned steak with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh vegetables inside a toasted sub roll, replicating the popular restaurant flavor. If sirloin or ribeye steak is unavailable, flank or skirt steak can be substituted without compromising tenderness after marinating. When lacking a grill or griddle, a cast-iron skillet on medium-high heat works well to cook the steak evenly and develop a nice sear. Sharp cheddar can be substituted with extra-sharp or white cheddar for a slightly different but still bold cheese profile. You can toast your sub rolls in the oven or on the skillet for a warm, crisp texture that enhances the sandwich experience.
Tips
Ensure the steak is sliced thinly and uniformly for even cooking and tenderness. Season your steak thoroughly with chipotle seasoning, salt, and black pepper to maximize flavor before grilling. Use tongs and a spatula to handle the steak without piercing it, preserving juices and texture. When toasting the assembled subs, watch closely to melt the cheddar perfectly without burning the bread, ensuring a balanced, satisfying bite for your meal.
Nutritions
The Chipotle Steak & Cheddar sandwich offers a balanced nutrition profile with high protein content from the tender, chipotle-seasoned steak, which supports muscle growth and energy. Sharp cheddar cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health, while fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants for immune support. The toasted sub roll provides carbohydrates for sustained energy, making your meal both satisfying and nutritionally diverse. Seasoning with olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, enhancing the overall nutrient absorption.
Storage
Store leftover cooked chipotle steak in airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and safety. Keep sliced cheddar cheese wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a sealed container to prevent drying out. For best results, store sandwich components like lettuce and tomatoes separately in crispers or sealed containers to preserve their texture until assembly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the sirloin steak for skirt steak or flank steak, which also absorbs chipotle seasoning well and offers a slightly different texture. Try using pepper jack cheese instead of sharp cheddar for a spicier, creamier melt that complements the smoky chipotle flavor. Instead of toasting the subs in the oven, you could grill them open-faced on the griddle for added char and crunch. For a fresher twist, consider adding sliced avocado or a drizzle of lime crema before serving.
Allergies
Chipotle Steak & Cheddar from Quiznos contains dairy from the sharp cheddar cheese, which may trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. The sub roll likely contains gluten, posing a risk to those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. You should check for potential cross-contamination or additional allergens in the seasoning and bread before enjoying this flavorful sandwich.
Why this recipe?
The Chipotle Steak & Cheddar menu from Quiznos restaurant is popular for its smoky, tender steak paired with melted cheddar cheese, creating a bold and satisfying flavor profile. The combination of fresh ingredients, including crisp lettuce and tangy chipotle sauce, enhances the overall taste, making each bite flavorful and enjoyable. Many appreciate its hearty serving size and the balance between spicy and creamy elements, which appeals to diverse palates. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to customize spice levels and ingredients while recreating a beloved sandwich experience at home.