LEFTOVER PRIME RIB SANDWICH RECIPE + WonkyWonderful
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can whip up this sandwich in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The rich taste of prime rib pairs perfectly with the zesty horseradish-mayo spread.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Leftovers: A delicious way to use up leftover prime rib without wasting any of that succulent meat.
- Satisfying Texture: The crunch of the toasted ciabatta combined with the melt-in-your-mouth prime rib creates a delightful eating experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our ingredients—these simple pantry staples create magic together to transform your leftover prime rib into a gourmet sandwich.
For the Sandwich Base:- Ciabatta rolls: Choose fresh, crusty rolls for the best texture. If ciabatta isn’t available, any hearty bread will do.
- Leftover prime rib: Sliced thin to ensure it heats evenly.
- Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the meat, but feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, crisp bite.
- Tomato: Freshly sliced for a burst of juiciness.
- Arugula: Adds a peppery flavor and a bit of green.
- Horseradish sauce: Adds a kick that complements the rich meat.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the horseradish.
- Olive oil: For brushing the rolls before toasting.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
If you’re looking for a specific brand of horseradish sauce, I recommend trying Silver Spring or Woeber’s for a robust flavor. For the cheese, Boar’s Head provolone is a great choice for its meltability and taste.
If you can’t find ciabatta, a good alternative is a French baguette or even a sourdough loaf. And if you’re out of arugula, spinach or lettuce can work in a pinch.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this Leftover Prime Rib Sandwich, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Baking sheet: To toast the rolls and melt the cheese.
- Oven: For heating and toasting.
- Small bowl: For mixing the horseradish-mayo spread.
- Knife: For slicing the rolls, meat, and vegetables.
If you have a panini press, it can be a fun alternative for toasting the sandwiches and adding grill marks.
How to Make Leftover Prime Rib Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Toast
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the ciabatta rolls in half and lightly brush the insides with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up, and toast in the oven for about 5 minutes until lightly golden.
Trust me, this step adds a delightful crunch to your sandwich.
Step 2: Prepare the Spread
While the rolls are toasting, mix the horseradish sauce and mayonnaise in a small bowl. This will be your spread for the sandwich. Believe me, the combination of creamy mayo and spicy horseradish perfectly complements the rich prime rib.
Step 3: Layer the Meat
Remove the rolls from the oven and spread the horseradish-mayo mixture on the bottom halves. Layer the thinly sliced prime rib on top of the spread. Tip from me: ensure the slices are thin to help them heat evenly.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Place a slice of provolone cheese over the prime rib on each sandwich. Return the sandwiches to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Now comes the fun part—watching that cheese melt into gooey perfection.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Remove the sandwiches from the oven. Add the sliced red onion, tomato, and a handful of arugula to each sandwich. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then place the top halves of the rolls on the sandwiches.
Step back and admire your creation before serving immediately.
Pro tip: To prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy, toast the rolls just until they’re golden. Over-toasting can make them too hard and difficult to bite through. Temperature matters: Use room temperature prime rib for even heating. If it’s straight from the fridge, let it sit out for a bit before assembling the sandwich. Visual cue: The cheese is done when it’s fully melted and slightly bubbly. This ensures it’s hot enough to complement the warm meat without overcooking. Common mistake to avoid: Don’t pile the toppings too high, as it can make the sandwich hard to eat. Keep it balanced for the best experience.Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Cheese Swap: Instead of provolone, try using Swiss or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Leftover Prime Rib Sandwich pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. For a classic pairing, serve with a side of crispy fries or a fresh green salad. If you’re looking for something lighter, a cup of soup like tomato basil or French onion complements the sandwich well.
For beverages, a glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the rich flavors of the prime rib. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, an iced tea or a cold beer can also be refreshing.
This sandwich is perfect for a casual lunch, a quick dinner, or even a picnic. Its versatility makes it a great choice for any occasion.
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
- To store any leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. They should be consumed within 24 hours for the best quality. For the prime rib itself, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 3-4 days.
If you want to make the sandwiches ahead of time, assemble them without the toppings and cheese. Store them in the fridge, and when ready to eat, add the cheese and toppings, then heat in the oven until the cheese is melted.
To reheat, place the wrapped sandwich in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutritional Benefits
- Prime rib is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also contains important vitamins like B12 and iron. The arugula in the sandwich adds vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to overall health and immunity.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using lighter bread or skipping the mayo to reduce the fat content. This sandwich can be adapted to fit various dietary needs while still being delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches without the cheese and toppings, then add those when you’re ready to heat and serve.
Q: What can I use instead of ciabatta rolls?
Any hearty bread like a French baguette or sourdough will work well. Even a good quality sandwich bun can be used.
Q: How do I know when the cheese is done melting?
The cheese is ready when it’s fully melted and slightly bubbly. This ensures it’s hot enough to complement the warm meat.
Q: Can I freeze this sandwich?
It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled sandwich, but you can freeze the leftover prime rib for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Q: What if I don’t like horseradish?
You can skip the horseradish and use just mayonnaise or try a different spread like Dijon mustard or aioli.
Q: How can I adjust the flavor?
Add more or less horseradish to suit your taste, or experiment with different cheeses and toppings for a personalized touch.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat the sandwich?
Wrap the sandwich in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the bread from getting soggy.
Q: Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the prime rib with grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian option.
Recipe Origin or History
The concept of using leftover meat in sandwiches dates back centuries, with various cultures developing their own versions. In the United States, the prime rib sandwich is a popular way to enjoy leftover holiday roasts. This recipe takes that tradition and elevates it with gourmet touches like the horseradish-mayo spread and fresh arugula.
Final Thoughts
This Leftover Prime Rib Sandwich is a testament to the magic of transforming leftovers into something special. With its easy preparation, flavorful ingredients, and versatile nature, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this sandwich delivers on taste and convenience.
I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with me. Leave a comment below with your thoughts, or share your creation on social media. And don’t forget to explore more recipes on WonkyWonderful for even more culinary inspiration.
Enjoy your sandwich!
Leftover Prime Rib Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the ciabatta rolls in half and lightly brush the insides with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up, and toast in the oven for about 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- While the rolls are toasting, mix the horseradish sauce and mayonnaise in a small bowl. This will be your spread for the sandwich.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and spread the horseradish-mayo mixture on the bottom halves. Layer the thinly sliced prime rib on top of the spread.
- Place a slice of provolone cheese over the prime rib on each sandwich. Return the sandwiches to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the sandwiches from the oven. Add the sliced red onion, tomato, and a handful of arugula to each sandwich. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then place the top halves of the rolls on the sandwiches and serve immediately.
