Cheesesteak 101: Choosing The Perfect Cheese For Your Sandwich

The Philly Cheesesteak is one of the most famous sandwiches in the US. But what kind of cheese should you use to make it? The answer depends on who you ask. Some strongly advocate for Cheez Whiz, while others prefer melted provolone cheese or white American cheese. You'll even find some people who use Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.

Provolone is a popular choice

When making a cheesesteak with provolone, it is best to use mild provolone cheese. You can also use white American cheese or Cheez Whiz, but provolone is a more classic option and gives the sandwich an authentic flavour. To make the perfect cheesesteak, it is important to use a good cut of beef, such as ribeye or sirloin, and to slice it very thinly. The beef should be seasoned with salt and pepper and cooked on a griddle or in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Onions are another essential component of a cheesesteak. They should be sliced and sautéed until they are soft and translucent, but not overcooked. You can also add bell peppers to your cheesesteak, although this is not traditional. To assemble the sandwich, the beef and onions are placed on a hoagie roll, which has been sliced lengthwise and toasted. The provolone cheese is then added, and the sandwich is served immediately so that the cheese is still melted.

Some people prefer to use other types of cheese on their cheesesteaks, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese. However, provolone is a classic choice that will give your cheesesteak an authentic flavour. So, if you're looking to make a traditional cheesesteak, be sure to use provolone cheese!

White American cheese is another option

When making a Philly cheesesteak, it is important to start with thinly sliced beef. Ribeye is a common choice, but other cuts like sirloin or flank steak can also be used. Freezing the meat for about 30 minutes before slicing can help achieve the desired thinness.

In addition to the cheese and beef, a classic Philly cheesesteak also includes sautéed onions and a toasted hoagie roll. Some recipes also call for the addition of bell peppers, mushrooms, or other ingredients. However, a truly traditional Philly cheesesteak is typically more minimal, focusing on the interplay of steak, onion, and cheese.

To assemble the sandwich, the beef is first cooked and seasoned, and then the onions are added and cooked until softened. The mixture is then placed on the hoagie roll, and the cheese is added on top. The sandwich can be finished off in a few different ways. Some like to melt the cheese in the oven or under a broiler, while others prefer to let the residual heat from the meat and onions melt the cheese.

White American cheese is a great choice for those who want a creamy, mild-flavoured cheesesteak. It pairs well with the juicy beef and savoury onions, creating a delicious and iconic American comfort food.

Cheez Whiz is a common addition

Cheez Whiz: A Common Addition to the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak is an iconic American sandwich, with many passionate fans. While there are some differences of opinion on what constitutes an authentic Philly Cheesesteak, Cheez Whiz is a common addition to the sandwich.

The History of the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak is one of the most famous sandwiches in the U.S. and is undoubtedly delicious. The classic version is made with ribeye steak, caramelized onion, and cheese, all on a toasted hoagie roll. The sandwich is said to have originated in Philadelphia, and people from the city are passionate about what is and isn't a true Philly Cheesesteak.

The Cheez Whiz Option

Some strongly advocate for Cheez Whiz on the sandwich, while others prefer melted provolone or white American cheese. Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese sauce, and while it might not be to everyone's taste, it is a popular choice for a Philly Cheesesteak. It is creamy and adds moisture to the sandwich, which is important as the steak and onions can be dry.

How to Make a Philly Cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz

To make a Philly Cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz, you will need:

• Ribeye steak, trimmed and sliced very thin
• Salt and pepper
• Yellow onion, chopped
• Vegetable or canola oil
• Cheez Whiz
• Hoagie rolls
• Butter
• Garlic
• Mayonnaise

Freeze the steak for 30 minutes so it is firm enough to slice thinly. Chop the onions and set aside. Split the hoagie rolls and spread with garlic butter before toasting. Sauté the onions for 8-10 minutes until they begin to caramelize. Heat oil in a pan and add the steak, cooking for 2-3 minutes without moving the meat to get a nice sear. Then turn the steak over and cook the other side. Add the onions back to the pan and stir. Separate the meat and onions into portions and cover each with Cheez Whiz. Serve on the toasted hoagie rolls.

Variations

While Cheez Whiz, provolone, and white American cheese are the most common choices, you could also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese. You could also add some sliced green bell pepper and sauté it with the onions.

Cheddar can be used for an upscale option

While Cheez Whiz, Provolone, and White American are the most common cheeses used in cheesesteaks, you can use cheddar for an upscale option.

Cheddar is a natural cheese that has a rich and creamy texture and a sharp, tangy taste. It is a popular cheese that is widely available in various forms, such as mild, medium, sharp, and extra sharp. Using cheddar cheese in your cheesesteak can elevate the sandwich and make it a more indulgent option.

To use cheddar cheese in your cheesesteak, shred or slice it thinly to ensure it melts evenly and blends well with the other ingredients. You can also make a cheddar cheese sauce by melting the cheese with a liquid base such as milk or beer, and adding seasonings like dry mustard and Worcestershire sauce. This sauce can then be generously spread on the roll or mixed with the steak and other fillings.

When choosing cheddar for your cheesesteak, consider a sharp or extra sharp variety, as these will have a more pronounced flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients in the sandwich. Additionally, if you want to add a touch of sophistication to your cheesesteak, look for a high-quality aged cheddar. The aging process adds complexity to the flavor and gives the cheese a more crumbly texture, making it ideal for sprinkling over the steak or mixing into a sauce.

While cheddar may not be the traditional choice for a cheesesteak, it can certainly be used to create an upscale and unique version of this classic sandwich.

Blue cheese is a good choice for those who like a kick

There are many different types of blue cheese, each with its own unique flavour and characteristics. Some popular varieties include Gorgonzola, Stilton, and Maytag. These cheeses can vary in terms of texture, from soft and creamy to hard and crumbly. When choosing a blue cheese for your cheesesteak, consider the overall flavour profile you want to achieve. For example, a milder blue cheese may be better if you want the taste of the meat and other ingredients to shine through. On the other hand, a stronger blue cheese can add a more pronounced kick to your sandwich.

When adding blue cheese to your cheesesteak, consider the amount you use. A little blue cheese can go a long way, so you may not need much to get the desired flavour. You can also try mixing it with other cheeses to create a unique blend. Experiment with different combinations of cheeses to find the perfect ratio of flavours that complement each other.

In terms of preparation, blue cheese can be crumbled or sliced and added to your cheesesteak sandwich. If you want the cheese to be more melted and gooey, you can try placing the sandwich under a grill or in the oven for a brief period. This will allow the blue cheese to soften and become more creamy, adding a different texture to your sandwich.

Remember that blue cheese is just one option among many when it comes to choosing a cheese for your cheesesteak. Other popular choices include provolone, white American cheese, Cheez Whiz, mozzarella, and Swiss cheese. Ultimately, the best cheese for your cheesesteak comes down to your personal preference and the specific flavour profile you want to create. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and find the combination that suits your taste buds!

Frequently asked questions