Steak & Stilton Ciabatta Recipe | Plancha-Seared Steak Sandwich with Caramelised Onions

🥪 Steak & Stilton Ciabattas on a Plancha BBQ

A steak sandwich is a true pub favourite, but cooking it on a plancha BBQ takes it to another level. The hot, flat cooking surface creates a delicious crust on the steak while allowing the onions to slowly caramelise without losing any of their flavour.

This recipe combines tender rump steak with sweet caramelised onions, creamy Stilton and lightly toasted ciabatta rolls for a sandwich that's hearty enough for lunch yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The rich Stilton melts beautifully over the warm steak, creating the perfect balance of savoury, creamy and slightly tangy flavours.

Whether you're enjoying a relaxed weekend lunch or feeding friends during a garden gathering, this is a simple recipe that's guaranteed to become a favourite.

📝 Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Serves: 4

Difficulty: Easy

🛒 Ingredients

For the Steak

  • 2 rump steaks (approximately 250g each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

For the Sandwiches

  • 4 ciabatta rolls
  • 150g Stilton, crumbled
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 25g butter
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • Handful of rocket
  • Dijon mustard (optional)

To Serve

  • Skin-on fries
  • Coleslaw
  • Gherkins

🔥 Equipment Needed

  • Plancha BBQ
  • BBQ spatula
  • BBQ tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Chopping board

👨🍳 Method

Step 1 – Caramelise the onions

Preheat the plancha BBQ to a medium heat.

Melt the butter on the plancha before adding the sliced onions.

Cook slowly for around 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar during the final few minutes and continue cooking until beautifully golden.

Step 2 – Cook the steak

Increase the heat to high.

Brush the steaks with olive oil and season generously with sea salt and black pepper.

Cook for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer to suit your preference.

Rest the steaks for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 3 – Toast the ciabatta

Slice the ciabatta rolls in half.

Place them cut-side down on the plancha for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.

Step 4 – Assemble

Spread a little Dijon mustard onto the ciabatta if using.

Layer with rocket, sliced steak and caramelised onions.

Scatter over the crumbled Stilton so it softens against the warm steak.

Top with the ciabatta lid and serve immediately.

💡 Cooking Tips

  • Rest the steak before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  • Cook the onions slowly for the best sweetness.
  • Toasting the ciabatta prevents it becoming soggy.
  • Allow the Stilton to soften naturally on the warm steak.

🌟 Delicious Variations

Steak & Blue Cheese Baguette

Swap the ciabatta for a crusty baguette.

Peppercorn Steak Sandwich

Add a drizzle of creamy peppercorn sauce.

Steak & Mature Cheddar

Replace the Stilton with mature Cheddar.

Garlic Mushroom Steak Ciabatta

Add sautéed garlic mushrooms for extra richness.

Steak & Horseradish

Spread the bread with horseradish sauce instead of Dijon mustard.

🍽️ What to Serve with Steak & Stilton Ciabattas

These sandwiches pair perfectly with:

  • Skin-on fries
  • Triple-cooked chips
  • Onion rings
  • Coleslaw
  • Pickled onions
  • Mixed leaf salad
  • Corn on the cob
  • Garlic butter mushrooms

🥡 Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the plancha before assembling fresh sandwiches.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Why use a plancha instead of grill grates?

A plancha gives the steak an even crust while allowing the onions to caramelise perfectly without falling through the grill.

Can I use another cut of steak?

Yes. Sirloin, ribeye or flat iron steak all work beautifully.

Can I use another cheese?

Absolutely. Mature Cheddar, Red Leicester or Blue Shropshire are all excellent alternatives.

How do I keep the steak tender?

Avoid overcooking it and always let it rest before slicing against the grain.

Can I prepare the onions in advance?

Yes. Caramelised onions can be made a day ahead and gently reheated on the plancha.

🛍️ Shop the Equipment at Sal's Place

A plancha BBQ is ideal for cooking steaks, caramelising onions and toasting bread all on one spacious cooking surface, making recipes like this quick, simple and full of flavour.

🔗 Explore Plancha BBQs at Sal's Place

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Bring a classic British pub favourite into your garden with these steak and Stilton ciabattas—perfect for laid-back lunches, weekend barbecues and sharing with family and friends.