Philly Cheesesteak: Melty Cheese Options For A Classic Sandwich

The Philly Cheesesteak is one of the most famous sandwiches in the US, and its fans are passionate about what does and doesn't constitute an authentic Philly Cheesesteak. The traditional Philly Cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, topped with melted cheese, and fried onions, all on a toasted hoagie roll. But what kind of cheese is best?

The most popular cheeses for Philly Cheesesteaks are mild provolone, white American cheese, and Cheez Whiz. Provolone is the best option for those who prefer a neutral-flavoured cheese, while American cheese is a strong runner-up thanks to its meltiness. In Philadelphia, you'll even find some food trucks and restaurants that swear by Cheez Whiz.

Provolone is a popular choice for Philly Cheesesteaks

Provolone is widely available and commonly used in Philly Cheesesteaks, both in restaurants and at home. It is considered a classic, traditional choice for this sandwich, along with White American cheese and Cheez Whiz. Provolone is also a popular choice due to its mild flavour, which does not overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich. It melts well and coats the steak, adding a creamy texture without making the sandwich greasy.

When making a Philly Cheesesteak, it is important to use a cheese that melts well and has a mild flavour. Provolone is ideal because it has a high melting point, which means it will not become greasy and will still be stretchy when melted. Its mild flavour also ensures that the taste of the steak and other ingredients, like onions and peppers, shines through.

Provolone is a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes, and its popularity in Philly Cheesesteaks is a testament to its ability to enhance the flavours of this iconic sandwich.

White American cheese is another classic option

White American cheese is often sold in slices, making it a convenient choice for this sandwich. It is also widely available in grocery stores, and some sources recommend asking the deli counter to slice it for you.

When making a Philly Cheesesteak with White American cheese, it is important to note that the cheese should be added at the end of cooking. This will allow the cheese to melt into the meat and other ingredients without overcooking.

Some people prefer to use a combination of cheeses on their Philly Cheesesteak. White American cheese can be used alongside Provolone, for example, to add extra gooeyness to the sandwich.

Cheez Whiz is a common addition in Philadelphia

Cheez Whiz: A Philly Favourite

Cheez Whiz is a common addition to the Philly Cheesesteak in Philadelphia. While the classic sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and provolone cheese, some prefer to swap out the provolone for Cheez Whiz. This bright orange, gooey, processed cheese sauce is a well-loved alternative to the traditional provolone.

The History of Cheez Whiz

Cheez Whiz was first introduced in 1952 by Kraft. It was initially marketed as a snack food, to be eaten on crackers, but soon found its way onto the Philly Cheesesteak. The reason for this is likely due to its low cost and long shelf life. Cheez Whiz is also a great melting cheese, which makes it perfect for a hot sandwich.

The Great Cheese Debate

There is much debate over which cheese is best for a Philly Cheesesteak. Provolone is the most popular choice, due to its mild flavour and excellent melt. However, Cheez Whiz has its fair share of fans, especially in Philadelphia. Some claim that Cheez Whiz is the only acceptable cheese to use, while others say it is the best option for those who are feeling "frisky". White American cheese is another popular option, with its gooey texture helping to hold the sandwich together.

Kraft or Generic?

Some people claim that the brand of Cheez Whiz makes a difference. They say that the generic versions found in many restaurants and food trucks are inferior to the original Kraft version. However, others say they can't tell the difference.

The Future of Cheez Whiz

Whether you love it or hate it, Cheez Whiz is here to stay. This bright orange, processed cheese sauce has become an iconic part of the Philly Cheesesteak, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. So, if you're looking to add a little extra gooeyness to your sandwich, why not give Cheez Whiz a try? Just make sure you get the Kraft brand for the full experience!

Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are alternative cheese options

Mozzarella is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavour that can be used as a substitute for provolone. It has a similar texture and meltability to provolone, making it a good alternative. Monterey Jack, on the other hand, is a semi-hard cheese with a mild, buttery flavour. It has a slightly stronger flavour than Mozzarella but is still versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.

When choosing a cheese for your Philly Cheesesteak, consider the flavour and meltability. You want a cheese that will complement the other ingredients without overwhelming them. Provolone and American cheese are popular choices because they have a neutral flavour and melt well. However, if you're looking for something different, Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are worth considering. Just keep in mind that while they will add a tasty twist to your sandwich, they won't give you the same classic Philly Cheesesteak experience.

Cheddar is a less common, but still tasty, option

While the most popular cheeses for a Philly cheesesteak are mild provolone, white American cheese, or Cheez Whiz, some people opt for a less common choice: cheddar.

Cheddar is a great option if you're looking for a cheese with a more distinct flavour than provolone or American cheese. It has a sharper, more pungent taste that can enhance the overall flavour of your sandwich.

When making a Philly cheesesteak with cheddar, it's important to choose a variety that melts well. Some cheddars can be quite firm and may not melt as smoothly as other cheeses. You could also consider combining cheddar with another cheese, such as American cheese, to get the best of both worlds in terms of flavour and meltiness.

Additionally, to ensure your Philly cheesesteak is authentic, remember to use thinly sliced ribeye steak, and feel free to add caramelized onions. You can also add bell peppers and mushrooms, though these are not typically included in a traditional Philly cheesesteak.

Finally, don't forget to serve your cheesesteak on a toasted hoagie roll. This type of bread is essential to the Philly cheesesteak experience and can make or break your sandwich.

Frequently asked questions