Open Faced Beef Ciabatta Sandwiches (Quick & Delicious)

Crispy, toasted ciabatta topped with savory spread, tender shredded beef, and melty cheese – these Beef Ciabatta Sandwiches are the perfect quick meal! Made in the air fryer, they cook up in just 8 minutes for a satisfying lunch or dinner that’s both easy and impressive.

These mouthwatering sandwiches combine artisan bread with flavorful beef and cheese for an elevated yet simple meal. Cook them in an air fryer for the perfect balance of crispy bread and melty cheese, or bake them in the oven for a traditional approach. Either way, they’re ready in minutes and sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients and Supplies to Make Beef Ciabatta Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• Ciabatta rolls or any artisan bread
• Artichoke spread (or your favorite spread)
• Shredded beef
• Parmesan cheese (shredded or sliced)
• Optional toppings: fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, or arugula

Supplies:

• Air fryer or oven
• Knife for slicing bread
• Spoon for spreading
• Cutting board
• Parchment paper (optional)

Want to customize these sandwiches or accommodate different preferences? Try these variations:

Protein Options

Not a fan of beef or want to switch things up? Try these delicious alternatives:

• BBQ Beef – for a smoky, sweet flavor profile
• Shredded Chicken – use rotisserie chicken for convenience
• BBQ Chicken – tossed in your favorite barbecue sauce
• Mississippi Chicken – for a tangy, savory option
• Leftover Ham – perfect for using holiday leftovers
• Tuna Melts – mix with mayo, celery, and onion for a classic option
• Turkey – great with cranberry spread for a holiday twist
• Roast Beef – thinly sliced for a more traditional sandwich
• Lamb – pairs beautifully with Mediterranean spreads
• Salmon – try with cream cheese and capers

Spread Variations

The right spread adds moisture and flavor to your sandwiches. Try these options:

• Spinach Artichoke Spread – creamy with a hint of tang
• Caramelized Onion with Roasted Garlic – rich and savory
• Tzatziki with Feta – refreshing Mediterranean flavor
• Smoked Gouda with Peppers – bold and slightly spicy
• Dijon Mustard – for a tangy kick
• BBQ Sauce – sweet and smoky complement to beef
• Mayonnaise – classic and simple
• Cream Cheese – mild and creamy
• Honey and Garlic – sweet with a hint of bite
• Poppy Seed Spread – light and slightly nutty
• Simple Butter – lets the beef flavor shine

Cheese Options

The perfect cheese can elevate your sandwich. Consider these varieties:

• Parmesan – nutty and rich
• Cheddar – classic and melts beautifully
• Monterey Jack – mild and melts well
• Mozzarella – especially good with tomato
• Blue Cheese – bold and tangy
• Swiss – mild nutty flavor
• Provolone – smooth and melts nicely
• Pepper Jack – adds a spicy kick

How to Make Beef Ciabatta Sandwiches in the Air Fryer or Oven

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. If using whole ciabatta loaves, slice them in half lengthwise to create top and bottom pieces.
2. Have your spread, shredded beef, and cheese ready to assemble.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Spread a generous amount of your chosen spread (like spinach artichoke dip) over each half of bread.
2. Top with a layer of shredded beef, distributing it evenly across the bread.
3. You can add the cheese now or wait until later in the cooking process, depending on how melty and golden you like it.

Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches

1. Preheat your cooking appliance:
   • Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (204°C)
   • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (204°C)
2. Prepare for cooking:
   • Air Fryer: Place the open-faced sandwiches in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
   • Oven: Place on a baking sheet.
3. Initial cooking:
   • Air Fryer: Cook for 6 minutes.
   • Oven: Bake for 6-7 minutes.
4. Add cheese if not added earlier:
   • Top the sandwiches with parmesan cheese or your preferred cheese.
5. Final cooking:
   • Air Fryer: Air fry for 1-2 more minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
   • Oven: Bake for 2-3 more minutes until cheese is melted and bread edges are crispy.

Extra Crispy Bread Tips

• Toast the ciabatta for 1-2 minutes at 380-400°F before adding toppings for extra crispy bread.
• If using a Cosori Dual Blaze, toast for 1-4 minutes at 380-400°F.
• Use a traditional oven broiler for 1-2 minutes before adding toppings for extra crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use any type of bread for these sandwiches?
   • Yes! Ciabatta is ideal, but sourdough, French bread, or any artisan bread works.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store uncooked sandwiches in the fridge up to 24 hours. Store components separately for best results.
3. Can I make them ahead of time?
   • Yes, prep components and assemble just before cooking for easy meal prep.
4. What sides go well with these sandwiches?
   • Salad, air fried veggies, chips, or a small cup of soup.
5. Can I make this without an air fryer?
   • Yes! Use a conventional oven, toaster oven, or panini press.

Final Thoughts

These Open Faced Beef Ciabatta Sandwiches are perfect for busy nights, quick lunches, or casual entertaining. The air fryer delivers crispy bread and melty cheese in minutes. Customize with different proteins, spreads, and cheeses to fit your mood or use up leftovers!

Try it today for a fast snack, quick lunch, or easy dinner and let us know your favorite combos!

More Quick and Easy Air Fryer Recipes:

• 30 Minute Shrimp Scampi Recipe
• 10 Minute Ham Quesadilla
• Easy 3 Ingredient Ramen Noodle Stir Fry
• Honey Garlic Pork Chops
• Simple Cowboy Casserole

Air Fryer Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

• Air Fryer 101
• Common Air Fryer Mistakes
• Best and Worst Air Fryer Accessories
• How to Clean Your Air Fryer
• How to Adapt Any Recipe for the Air Fryer
• Free Air Fryer Tips & Temps Download
• Air Fryer Buying Guide

Get my air fryer cookbook for more air fryer inspiration!

Open Faced Beef Ciabatta Sandwich (Air Fryer Recipe)

Crispy, toasted ciabatta topped with savory spread, tender shredded beef, and melty cheese – these Beef Ciabatta Sandwiches are the perfect quick meal! Made in the air fryer, they cook up in just 8 minutes for a satisfying lunch or dinner that's both easy and impressive.

4.55 / 5 ( 11 Reviews )

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes minutes

Total Time: 13 minutes minutes

Serves: 4

Adjust Servings: 4

US CustomaryMetric

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

• 4-8 Ciabatta Rolls or any artisan bread
• 1 container artichoke spread I used a 32 ounce La Terra Fina Spinach Artichoke & Parmesan container, you don't need to use the entire container.
• 1 package shredded beef pork I used a 36 ounce package, you don't need to use the entire package. This recipe also works great if you have leftover meat that you want to use up.
• 8-16 slices Parmesan cheese or to taste

Instructions

• Cut the ciabatta rolls in half lengthwise.
• Spread a generous amount of Spinach Artichoke dip over each half of the bread, as much as you want.
• Top each bread with Shredded Beef or Pork.
• Air fry at 400 °F for 6 minutes.
• Top with parmesan cheese and air fry for 1-2 minutes more to melt the cheese.

Recipe Notes

This recipe works with any meat of your choice and any spread. Choose your favorites and enjoy! 

Nutrition

Calories: 137kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 309mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g