The Best Cheeses To Pair With Steak

There are many types of cheese that can be used on steak, and the best option may depend on the cut of steak and personal preference. For example, blue cheese is often paired with ribeye steak, while goat cheese complements the tenderloin. Other popular choices include cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan. When it comes to steak sandwiches, Brie is a favourite, adding a creamy texture and mild flavour. Provolone is also a common choice for steak sandwiches, especially the classic Philly cheesesteak.

Blue Cheese

When it comes to preparing a steak with blue cheese, there are a few ways to go about it. One option is to crumble blue cheese over a grilled steak and let it melt slightly before serving. This method is simple yet effective, allowing the cheese to enhance the flavours of the meat without overwhelming them. Another option is to create a blue cheese butter by combining butter, blue cheese, herbs, and garlic. This mixture can then be generously spread over a grilled steak, adding a decadent touch.

When choosing a steak to pair with blue cheese, a ribeye cut is an excellent option. The rich marbling and robust flavour of ribeye complement the creamy and tangy notes of blue cheese. Additionally, the impressive tomahawk steak, known for its size and presentation, can also pair well with blue cheese.

For a complete meal, consider serving your steak with oven-roasted potato wedges or whole baked potatoes. A side of broccoli salad or other hot cooked vegetables can also complement the flavours of the steak and blue cheese pairing.

Brie

To make a brie steak sandwich, start by seasoning and cooking your steak to your desired doneness. Let the steak rest before slicing it thinly against the grain. Toast your bread and add spreads such as mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Layer the steak, brie, caramelised onions, and arugula on the bread. You can also add other toppings such as tomatoes, leafy greens, or aioli.

Cheddar

When it comes to selecting the perfect cheddar for your steak, consider opting for an aged variety. Aged cheddars tend to have a more pronounced flavour and a firmer texture, making them ideal for melting over a hot steak. The sharpness of the cheddar will also provide a delightful contrast to the juicy, savoury taste of the meat.

To take your dining experience to the next level, consider creating a cheddar sauce to drizzle over your steak. This can be achieved by making a béchamel sauce—a simple combination of butter, flour, and milk—and then mixing in shredded cheddar cheese. This sauce will add a creamy texture and a rich taste to your steak, taking it from delicious to decadent.

When pairing cheddar with your steak, it's important to ensure that the cheese enhances rather than overpowers the meat. Cheddar has a distinct flavour that can stand up to the robust taste of steak, so it's essential to find the right balance. Additionally, allowing the cheese to come to room temperature before serving will optimise its flavour and ensure it melts beautifully over your hot steak.

Experimenting with different combinations of steak and cheddar is also encouraged. Try pairing a sharp cheddar with a more subtly flavoured steak, or opt for a milder cheddar if you prefer your steak to be the star of the show. Ultimately, the perfect pairing is a matter of personal preference, so don't be afraid to explore different options to discover your favourite combination.

Provolone

When making a steak sandwich with provolone, it is important to let the cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the sandwich. This helps it melt more beautifully and enhances the flavour. It is also important to slice the steak thinly and against the grain to improve the texture and make the meat easier to chew.

Some possible ingredients to include in a steak and provolone sandwich are:

• Bread: French baguette, hoagie rolls, ciabatta, or any other crusty bread.
• Toppings: Caramelized onions, arugula or spinach, barbecue sauce, garlic spread, or crispy fried onions.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper, or a steak rub.

Gruyère

When choosing a cheese to pair with steak, it is important to consider the flavour profile of the meat and select a cheese that will complement it. Gruyère is a good choice for the impressive Tomahawk steak as its nutty and slightly sweet flavour enhances the robust flavour of the meat.

To make the most of Gruyère's flavour, it is recommended to serve it at room temperature. This also helps it melt more beautifully over hot steaks.

Frequently asked questions