Cheese Steaks: Which Cheeses Melt And Taste The Best?

what cheese is best for cheese steak

There are many types of cheese that can be used in a cheesesteak, with some varieties being more popular than others. The type of cheese used can depend on personal preference, regional availability, and the desired level of indulgence or messiness. Some popular options for cheesesteaks include American cheese, Provolone, Cheddar, Swiss, and even more indulgent choices like truffled Brie or triple crème Delice de Bourgogne. For those who prefer a more funky option, Raclette, a washed rind melter, is suggested. Ultimately, the choice of cheese may depend on the desired texture and flavour profile, with some cheeses melting better than others and certain cheeses pairing well with specific cuts of meat.

Characteristics Values
Cheese type Provolone, Cheddar, Raclette, American, Mozzarella, Blue Cheese, Swiss, Brie, Stilton, Roquefort, Double Gloucester, Gorgonzola
Texture Melty, gooey, oozy, messy
Taste Salty, meaty, funky

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Provolone

When used in a cheesesteak, provolone adds a creamy texture and a subtle tang, which complements the other ingredients well. It is a good match for the beef, peppers, and onions commonly used in cheesesteaks, and its meltability means it binds the sandwich together.

Some people prefer to blend provolone with other cheeses, such as mozzarella, to enhance its meltability and create a truly indulgent cheesesteak. Its mild flavour also means it pairs well with stronger, more pungent cheeses, like blue cheese, or with other cheeses commonly used in sandwiches, like American cheese.

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Cheddar

If you're making a homemade sauce, you can use real Cheddar cheese and add milk, garlic, and onion powder to get that classic, oozy, messy cheesesteak texture.

For the best results, it's recommended to use a soft hoagie roll or sub roll, as these are sturdy enough to hold the steak and cheese sauce without falling apart. You can also use French bread, ciabatta, or brioche buns, and for extra flavor, brush the buns with melted garlic butter.

As for the steak, any cut of beef will work, but it's important to choose cuts that don't have too much fat, as this will make them harder to slice. Beef slabs are often cheaper and easier to slice than steaks, and Sirloin Tip Roast is a good choice as it's tender and less expensive than Ribeye.

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Raclette

When making a cheesesteak with Raclette, it is important to slice the cheese thinly so that it melts evenly and creates a nice, oozy texture. It can be paired with beef, as well as other ingredients like lemon-thyme, celery, and garlic.

For a truly indulgent experience, try pairing Raclette with other cheeses. For example, Geno, the author of the Cheesesteak Professor blog, recommends pairing Raclette with a local washed-rind cheese like Birchrun Hills Farm Red Cat. This combination will create a unique flavour profile that will enhance the overall taste of the cheesesteak.

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Truffled Brie

While there are many types of cheese that can be used in a Philly cheesesteak, such as provolone, cheddar, raclette, and Cheez Whiz, Madame Fromage, Tenaya Darlington, recommends truffled brie for a lavish option.

The Marin French Cheese Co. makes an award-winning triple creme brie speckled with black truffles. Their Petite Truffle Brie is irresistibly aromatic and decadent, with a smooth texture and notes of sweet cream. It is a luxurious item often brought to parties for an elevated spread. It can also be added to omelets or scrambled eggs for a brunch feast.

For a vegan option, Rebel Cheese makes a plant-based gourmet truffled brie. It has a creamy and mild center with a bloomy rind and a surprisingly French taste, somewhere between a brie and a reblochon.

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Blue Cheese

When choosing blue cheese for a cheesesteak, there are several options to consider. Gorgonzola is a type of blue cheese that is creamy and melty, and it is not as strong as other varieties, making it a good choice for those who are new to blue cheese. Other types of blue cheese, such as Birchrun Hills Farm Red Cat or Treehug, can also be used, depending on personal preference and availability.

Overall, blue cheese is an excellent choice for cheesesteaks due to its unique flavour, versatility, and ability to pair well with other ingredients. Its distinct flavour can elevate the dish and create a memorable and indulgent dining experience. Whether crumbled directly onto the steak or used in a creamy sauce, blue cheese is sure to add a delicious twist to the classic cheesesteak.

Frequently asked questions

There are differing opinions on the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak. Some people recommend American cheese, Provolone, or a blend of the two. Others prefer to make a homemade Whiz with Cooper Sharp, white American cheddar cheese, evaporated milk, Texas Pete, garlic, and onion powder.

Yes, other options include Swiss cheese, Cheddar, Raclette, or a nice funky washed rind melter. If you're feeling fancy, you could try truffled Brie or triple crème, truffled Delice de Bourgogne.

Blue cheese, such as Stilton, is a popular choice for steak sandwiches, especially when paired with a ribeye steak. Other options include Huntsman, which is Stilton sandwiched in Double Gloucester, or Roquefort, which is made from sheep's milk and has a salty flavour.

Cherry peppers are a popular topping for chicken cheesesteaks, and they pair well with American cheese.

If you're looking for something unique, you could try a beer/cheese sauce made with sodium citrate. This option adds a nice melty goodness to your cheesesteak.

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