Calling all foodies! 🇺🇾 If you haven’t tried Uruguay’s legendary Chivito Sandwich, you’re missing out on pure deliciousness. Imagine this: juicy grilled beef (churrasco), smoky ham, gooey melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a perfectly fried (or hard-boiled) egg, all piled high with fresh veggies and briny olives—all hugged by a soft, fluffy bun. 🍔✨
And wait—it gets better! This beast of a sandwich often comes with a side of golden fries or (because why not?) a sunny-side-up egg right on top. Each bite delivers a thrilling burst of flavors and textures—utterly addictive.
Trust me, the Chivito isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a whole mood. Have you tried one yet? Drop a comment below! 👇
Ingredients
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2 soft sandwich rolls or ciabatta buns
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2 thin beef steaks (churrasco, sirloin, or flank steak)
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2 slices of ham
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2 slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese
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2-4 strips of bacon, cooked crispy
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2 fried eggs or hard-boiled eggs, sliced
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2-4 slices of tomato
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Lettuce leaves
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2 tbsp mayonnaise
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1 tbsp mustard (optional)
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2-4 pickled bell pepper strips or roasted red peppers
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2-4 green olives (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)
Execution
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Prepare the Beef:
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Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
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Heat oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side (or to desired doneness). Set aside.
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Assemble the Sandwich:
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Slice the buns and lightly toast them if desired.
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Spread mayonnaise (and mustard if using) on both sides.
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Layer in this order:
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Lettuce
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Grilled steak
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Ham
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Let the cheese melt a little from the steak’s heat.
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Bacon
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Tomato slices
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Fried or hard-boiled egg
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Pickled peppers & olives
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Serve:
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Secure with a toothpick if needed. Serve with fries or a simple salad.
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Additional Tips
✔ Protein Variations: Use chicken or pork instead of beef.
✔ Extra Indulgence: Add sautéed onions or mushrooms.
✔ Sauce Boost: Try chimichurri or a fried egg on top.
✔For Chivito al Plato: Leave the sandwich open, piling hot fries and toppings on top.
Q&A About Chivito Sandwich
What is a Chivito Sandwich?
A Chivito (meaning “little goat” in Spanish) is Uruguay’s national sandwich, despite its name not containing goat meat. It’s a hearty stack of grilled beef steak (churrasco), ham, melted cheese, bacon, eggs, olives, and veggies in a soft bun.
Why is it called “Chivito” if it has beef?
Legend says it was invented in the 1940s when a tourist asked for goat meat (“chivito”) at a Punta del Este restaurant. The chef improvised with beef, creating the now-iconic sandwich.
What’s the difference between Chivito Sandwich and Chivito al Plato?
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Sandwich: Served in a bun, eaten handheld.
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Al Plato (“on the plate”): An open-faced version with the same toppings piled over fries or a bed of lettuce.
Can I make a Chivito without beef?
Yes! Popular variations:
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Chivito Canadiense: Adds Canadian bacon.
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Chivito Vegetariano: Grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant replace beef.
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Chivito de Pollo: Uses grilled chicken breast.
What cheese is traditional?
Mozzarella or provolone are most common, but any melty cheese (like American or Swiss) works.
Is there a special sauce?
No official sauce, but common additions:
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Mayo-mustard mix
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Chimichurri (herby Argentine-Uruguayan sauce)
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Spicy mayo
What sides pair well with Chivito?
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French fries (classic choice)
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Potato chips
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Simple salad
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Pickled vegetables
Can I prepare Chivito ahead of time?
It’s best freshly assembled, but you can:
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Prep ingredients in advance (cook bacon, slice veggies).
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Reheat steak/egg just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Is Chivito spicy?
Not traditionally, but you can add:
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Hot sauce (e.g., Uruguayan “Ají”)
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Jalapeños
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Spicy pickled peppers
What’s the best way to prevent my sandwich from falling apart?
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Toast the bun lightly for structure.
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Layer ingredients strategically (cheese next to hot steak to melt and “glue” layers).
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Use a toothpick or skewer to hold it together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
This sandwich is packed with layers of juicy grilled steak, salty bacon, creamy melted cheese, tangy pickled peppers, and a runny egg—all harmonizing into a perfect umami-rich experience.
2. Customizable to Your Taste
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Protein swaps? Try chicken, pork, or even a portobello mushroom for a veggie version.
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Extra toppings? Add avocado, sautéed onions, or spicy mayo.
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Breakfast twist? Serve it with a fried egg on top!
3. Quick & Easy to Make
Ready in 20 minutes—no complicated techniques. Just grill, stack, and enjoy!
4. Feels Like a Restaurant Meal at Home
Indulgent, hearty, and visually impressive—it’s like having a taste of Uruguay’s best café in your kitchen.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
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Game day? Cut into quarters for sliders.
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Late-night craving? The ultimate satisfying snack.
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Brunch? Add a mimosa and call it a meal.
6. A Conversation Starter
Surprise friends with Uruguay’s national dish—most have never tried it but will beg for the recipe after one bite!
Still Hesitant?
If you love Reubens, Philly cheesesteaks, or loaded burgers, this is your next obsession. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist—guaranteed to become a favorite.
Happy Cooking
Diana
