The Best Cheeses To Compliment A Steak Hoagie

A steak hoagie, also known as a cheesesteak or Philly cheesesteak, is a sandwich made with thinly sliced steak, cheese, and a long hoagie roll. The most popular cheeses to use are mild provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz. However, other cheeses such as Swiss cheese and white American cheese are also used. The sandwich is often served with toppings such as sautéed onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.

The best cut of beef for a steak hoagie

When it comes to the best cut of beef for a steak hoagie, there are a few options to consider. Here are some recommendations and factors to keep in mind:

Ribeye

Ribeye is considered the king of beef cuts by many. It is a popular choice for steak hoagies due to its flavour and texture. Ribeye has a good amount of marbling, which adds flavour and keeps the meat juicy. It is also easy to slice thinly, making it ideal for hoagies. However, ribeye can be more expensive than other cuts.

Sirloin

Sirloin is a more affordable alternative to ribeye. It is still tender and works well for steak hoagies, especially if sliced thinly against the grain. Look for petite sirloin, which is thinner and more affordable than top sirloin. Freezing the sirloin for 20-30 minutes before slicing can make the process easier.

Strip Steak

Strip steak is another option that falls somewhere between ribeye and sirloin in terms of price. It has a good balance of flavour and tenderness, making it a suitable choice for steak hoagies.

Other Options

For a budget-friendly option, you could consider round steak or London broil. These cuts are leaner and may require additional care when cooking to ensure they stay tender. Skirt steak is also a good value option, especially when feeding a large crowd, as it is often sold in larger quantities.

In summary, the best cut of beef for a steak hoagie depends on your preferences and budget. Ribeye, sirloin, and strip steak are all excellent choices, while other cuts like round steak, London broil, and skirt steak can also work well. Remember to slice the beef thinly and cook it properly to ensure a delicious steak hoagie.

How to prepare the hoagie roll

Preparing the hoagie roll is an important step in making a good-quality steak hoagie. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to prepare the hoagie roll:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet and Oven

Preheat the oven to 400 °F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking liner. Sprinkle the parchment paper or liner generously with cornmeal to prevent the hoagie rolls from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Combine the dry ingredients, including bread flour, salt, and sugar, in a stand mixer. With the dough hook attachment, mix the dry ingredients until just combined. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add a mixture of warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Continue mixing, gradually adding olive oil, until the dough is thoroughly combined. Increase the speed to medium-low and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and supple. If the dough is too wet, add flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it is too dry, add a tablespoon of water.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place until it has doubled in size. This should take about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 4: Shape the Hoagie Rolls

Gently press down on the dough to remove any air bubbles. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces, depending on your preferred size. Roll each piece into an elongated shape, about 5-6 inches long. Curve the ends in slightly and make a 1/4-inch deep slit about 3 inches down the center of each piece. This will help the rolls expand during baking.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the shaped hoagie rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise will give the rolls a lighter texture.

Step 6: Bake the Hoagie Rolls

Bake the hoagie rolls in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature of the rolls should reach 200 °F. Let the rolls cool for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a hinge, making it easier to eat the sandwich without it falling apart. You can brush the insides with butter or spread with cheese before filling with your desired steak hoagie fillings. Enjoy!

The best cheese for a steak hoagie

A steak hoagie, also known as a cheesesteak, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beef steak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. The cheesesteak is a popular regional fast food that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The most popular cheeses for a steak hoagie are mild provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz.

Provolone

Provolone is a mild-tasting Italian cheese with great melting qualities. It is the most popular cheese for steak hoagies and is considered the "real cheese" by Geno's, one of the most famous cheesesteak shops in Philadelphia. Provolone is also the preferred cheese of Joey Vento, the owner of Geno's. However, it is important to avoid aged provolone, as its strong flavor can be overpowering. White provolone is also the cheese of choice for a classic Philly Cheesesteak, which traditionally includes only steak, onion, and cheese.

American Cheese

American cheese is a decent melty cheese that can also be used in a steak hoagie. Some establishments melt the cheese to achieve a creamy consistency, while others place slices over the meat and allow them to melt slightly under the heat.

Cheez Whiz

Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese spread that has become increasingly popular for steak hoagies. First marketed in 1952, it was not available for the original version of the sandwich in the 1930s. Cheez Whiz is the favorite at Pat's, another famous Philadelphia cheesesteak shop, outselling American cheese by a ratio of eight or ten to one. It is also the preferred choice of Pat Olivieri, one of the inventors of the cheesesteak.

Other Cheeses

While provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz are the most common choices, other cheeses can also be used. These include Cooper Sharp, a pasteurized process American cheese with a higher milkfat content that is sharper and creamier than ordinary American cheese, and Swiss cheese, which one home cook on Allrecipes.com uses in their steak hoagie recipe.

How to thinly slice the beef

To thinly slice the beef for your steak hoagie, you'll need to start with the right cut of meat. Sirloin is a good choice, specifically petite sirloin, as it's a thinner cut that requires less slicing. It's also more affordable than ribeye, which is another popular choice for steak hoagies.

Before you begin slicing, it's important to slightly freeze the meat. This will make it easier to slice it thinly and evenly. Place the meat in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it's firm but not icy.

Take the meat out of the freezer and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife, preferably a chef's knife or butcher knife, to slice the meat as thinly as possible, cutting against the grain. A sharp knife is key to ensuring even slices and maintaining control during the slicing process.

Once you've sliced the meat, cut it into very small pieces, about 1/4-inch in size. This will ensure that your steak hoagie has a tender texture and cooks evenly.

Now you're ready to cook the beef and assemble your steak hoagie!

How to serve a steak hoagie

A steak hoagie is a delicious and hearty sandwich that can be easily made at home. Here is a guide on how to serve a delicious steak hoagie:

Choose the Right Steak

The type of steak you choose for your hoagie can make a big difference in taste and texture. Look for a cut of beef that is tender and easy to slice thinly. Sirloin is a great middle-of-the-road option that is tender, slices easily, and has just the right amount of marbling for a sandwich. You could also use ribeye or strip steak, but these tend to be more expensive. Avoid very fatty cuts like skirt steak, and lean cuts like round steak or London broil, as they are not ideal for this sandwich.

Prepare the Steak

To make slicing easier, place your steak in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes before cutting. Trim any large pieces of fat, but a little fat is welcome. Slice the steak as thinly as possible, against the grain, and then cut the slices into small, bite-sized pieces. You will need about 5-6 ounces of steak for each hoagie.

Choose Your Cheese

While cheese is not mandatory for a steak hoagie, it can definitely take your sandwich to the next level. Provolone is a popular choice for steak hoagies as it has a mild flavor and melts well. Other options include mozzarella, Swiss cheese, or white cheddar. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try a white cheddar cheese sauce.

Prepare the Vegetables

In addition to the steak and cheese, a steak hoagie typically includes sautéed vegetables such as onions, peppers, and mushrooms. To prepare the vegetables, melt some butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced peppers, onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not fully caramelized. You want a little crunch to remain in the peppers. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.

Cook the Steak

In the same skillet, add a little more butter and cook the steak in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper and let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a crust. Then stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the steak is mostly cooked through.

Assemble the Hoagie

Slice a hoagie bun in half and lightly butter or oil it. Place it in a skillet, cut side down, next to a pile of steak and vegetables. Toast the bun until it is golden and crispy. Add a slice of cheese to the steak and vegetables, if using, and cover the skillet to melt the cheese. Finally, scoop the steak and vegetables into the hoagie bun and serve immediately.

A steak hoagie is a hearty and satisfying sandwich that can be served on its own, or with a light side dish such as a salad or roasted vegetables. It's a messy, flavorful, and definitely worth making at home!

Frequently asked questions