Frederic Melton
The Philly Cheesesteak is an iconic American sandwich, but what is the best cheese to use? The classic option is Cheez Whiz, a shelf-stable cheese product sold in jars, but some people prefer provolone, a legit Italian cheese. Other options include cheddar, blue cheese, mozzarella, and white American cheese. If you're feeling lavish, you could try truffled Brie or triple crème, truffled Delice de Bourgogne.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Classic cheese | Provolone, Cheez Whiz |
| Other cheeses | Pepper jack, sharp Cheddar, mozzarella, blue cheese, truffled Brie, triple crème, truffled Delice de Bourgogne, American cheese |
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What You'll Learn
Provolone vs Cheez Whiz
The "classic" Philadelphia cheesesteak is a divisive topic, with different opinions on which ingredients are key. The original cheesesteak, created in 1930, is said to have been made without cheese. However, when cheese was introduced in the 1940s, it was provolone. Cheez Whiz is the modern icon, but provolone is the earliest accompaniment.
Provolone
Provolone is a legitimate Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It is often available as an alternative to Cheez Whiz and is said to be the likely choice of those who originated the sandwich. It is a gentle, mild, pale cheese that requires heat to reach a melty state.
Cheez Whiz
Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese product sold in jars. It is typically made from a combination of dairy components, spices, and preservatives. It is smooth, spreadable, and has a bright orange-yellow colour. It is ready to use straight from the container, making it ideal for those who like a messy cheesesteak.
There are divided loyalties between these two cheese options for cheesesteaks. Some prefer the authenticity and flavour of provolone, while others opt for the convenience and messiness of Cheez Whiz. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference.
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Truffled Brie
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is served with provolone cheese, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese to find your preferred taste.
When using brie for a cheesesteak, it is best to let the cheese come to room temperature before adding it to your sandwich. This will make it creamier and easier to spread. You can also warm it up slightly to make it melt inside your sandwich.
To make a truffle cheese sauce for your cheesesteak, you can use a combination of butter, flour, milk, and truffled brie. Cook the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency and drizzle it over your cheesesteak.
Some other popular cheese options for cheesesteaks include pepper jack, sharp cheddar, and pizza sauce mixed with provolone. Ultimately, the best cheese for your cheesesteak comes down to personal preference, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses and find your favorite combination.
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Cheddar
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is topped with provolone cheese or Cheez Whiz, there are many other varieties of cheese that can be used. One option is to use a truffle-studded cheese, such as triple crème, truffled Delice de Bourgogne. This variety is sure to add an indulgent twist to your cheesesteak.
Another option is to use cheddar, which is a common alternative to processed American cheese. As Jeff Roberts, author of the "Atlas of American Artisan Cheese", notes, "If I were looking to go upscale, I'd go cheddar". This is especially true given the wide variety of great cheeses available in Pennsylvania.
If you're feeling adventurous, you could even experiment with blue cheese, which offers a strong flavour that pairs well with the rich umami of beef.
Ultimately, the best cheese for a cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. So, feel free to get creative and choose a variety of cheeses that suit your taste buds!
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Blue cheese
When making a blue cheese sauce for cheesesteaks, heavy cream is typically used as a base, with blue cheese crumbles melted into the sauce. Other common ingredients include Worcestershire sauce, which adds a slight tang and extra umami flavour, garlic powder, and freshly chopped chives. To make the sauce, butter and shallots are first melted and cooked in a saucepan. Then, apple cider vinegar is added, followed by heavy cream, half the blue cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Once the mixture bubbles, it is allowed to cool slightly before the remaining blue cheese and chives are stirred in.
While blue cheese is a less traditional choice for cheesesteaks compared to options like provolone or Cheez Whiz, it offers a unique and indulgent twist to this classic sandwich. The bold flavour and creamy texture of blue cheese elevate the dish, making it a decadent and memorable culinary experience.
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Mozzarella
To make a delicious mozzarella cheesesteak, start by cooking your steak of choice to the desired doneness. Ribeye and top round are classic options, but you can also use sirloin or flank steak for a more affordable alternative. Don't forget to season your steak generously! While the steak rests, cook your onions and bell peppers until they're soft and slightly caramelized. You can also add other ingredients like mushrooms or jalapenos for extra flavour.
Once your fillings are ready, it's time to assemble the cheesesteak. Place your steak, onions, and peppers on a hoagie roll or another type of crusty roll of your choice. Top it off with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and maybe a sprinkle of dried parsley for an herby note. To melt the cheese, you can either cover the sandwich with a lid or place it in a warm oven for a few minutes. The goal is to get that mozzarella ooey-gooey and perfectly melted!
For an extra indulgent touch, some people like to add a spread like garlic mayo or Dukes mayo to their mozzarella cheesesteaks. These spreads add a creamy texture and a subtle kick of flavour that pairs well with the mozzarella. So, if you're looking for a cheesy, meaty, and indulgent sandwich experience, a mozzarella cheesesteak is an excellent choice!
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Frequently asked questions
The most popular cheeses for cheesesteaks are provolone, Cheez Whiz, white American cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar.
The classic cheesesteak is made with tender, well-marbled steak, sautéed onions, and melty provolone cheese served in a soft but sturdy hoagie roll.
Some less common cheeses for cheesesteaks include blue cheese, Treehug, and truffle-studded cheeses like Brie or Delice de Bourgogne.
When making a cheesesteak, it's important to use a nice cut of tender steak with some marbled fat, such as ribeye. The steak should be thinly sliced and cooked slowly in its own fat and juices. The cheese should be folded in and melted to add richness and hold the sandwich together.
