The Perfect Knob Sandwich Recipe
A simple, satisfying, and incredibly delicious sandwich you'll make again and again.
Ready to build a great sandwich? This Knob Sandwich recipe is our family's go-to for a quick and flavorful meal. It combines tender roast beef, perfectly melted cheese, and a sweet mango chutney for a tropical-inspired twist. Let's make it together!
From My Journal: An Unexpected Creation
It's late in the evening here in Vietnam, and the gentle hum of the city reminds me of how this recipe came to be. It was born out of necessity during a busy week, using leftover roast beef and a jar of mango chutney we had. We jokingly called it a "knob sandwich" because we just threw a knob of butter in the pan to grill it. The name stuck, and it’s become a beloved, simple classic in our home.
What is a Knob Sandwich?
So, what exactly is a Knob Sandwich? The term knob refers to the small lump, or "knob," of butter used to grill the bread to golden perfection. A knob sandwich isn't a complicated affair; it's a simple, hearty sandwich built on classic flavors. The combination of savory roast beef and sweet chutney makes it a truly memorable meal.
Choosing Your Ingredients
The key to a great sandwich is quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need.
- Bread: Soft white or whole grain bread is a classic choice. For tips on selecting the best bread, see this guide.
- Roast Beef: Thinly sliced from the deli is perfect.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar or Swiss provides a wonderful melt.
- Veggies: Crisp lettuce and fresh tomato slices.
- Spreads: A combination of mango chutney and mayonnaise.
- Butter: For grilling the perfect golden-brown crust.
Knob Sandwich Recipe
This recipe is quick, flavorful, and easy to make—perfect for a satisfying meal any time of day.
Ingredients
- 2 slices soft white or whole grain bread
- 4 oz roast beef, thinly sliced
- 2 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 slices tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp mango chutney
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp butter (the "knob")
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Lightly toast the bread slices. Spread butter on one side of each slice.
- Apply Spreads: On the untoasted side of one slice, spread the mayonnaise. On the other, spread the mango chutney.
- Layer the Fillings: Place the cheese slices on the mayonnaise side. Top with the roast beef, shredded lettuce, and tomato slices.
- Season: Add a small pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Assemble: Place the chutney-spread slice on top, buttered-side-up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat a high-quality skillet over medium heat. Grill the sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted.
- Serve: Cut the sandwich diagonally and serve immediately.
Take It to the Next Level: Homemade Bread
While store-bought bread is perfect for a quick meal, nothing beats a sandwich made with fresh, homemade bread. If you're new to baking, this recipe from Jill Winger is one of the easiest and most reliable you can try. It's the perfect starting point for your bread-making journey.
For the full recipe, visit Jill Winger's Easy Dough Recipe.
Serving Suggestions
A great sandwich deserves a great partner. The Knob Sandwich pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, a cup of our Chicken Noodle Soup, or a handful of potato chips. For a refreshing drink, a tall glass of freshly brewed iced tea is the perfect complement to the sweet and savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
The name comes from the "knob" of butter used to grill the sandwich, giving it a rich flavor and a perfectly crispy crust. It’s a simple technique for a delicious result.
Absolutely. You can easily swap the roast beef for thick slices of grilled halloumi cheese, marinated tofu, or roasted vegetables like eggplant and zucchini for a fantastic vegetarian version.
Toasting the bread is the first step. Also, apply the mayonnaise and chutney as a barrier between the bread and the fillings. Finally, assemble the sandwich just before you plan to grill and eat it. For more tips, see this guide.
