Cheese Steak Sandwiches: What's The Cheesy Secret?

The Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich made with thinly sliced steak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. The most commonly used cheeses are American cheese, provolone, and Cheez Whiz. However, other cheeses such as Swiss cheese and mozzarella are also used. The choice of cheese is a matter of personal preference, and some people even combine different types of cheese to create their perfect Philly cheesesteak.

What is the best cheese for a cheese steak sandwich?

There are many different opinions on what the best cheese for a cheesesteak sandwich is. Some people prefer the classic American cheese, which is often melted to achieve a creamy consistency. Others opt for provolone, which is considered the "real cheese" by Geno's owner, Joey Vento. A combination of American and provolone is also a popular choice, as the American cheese adds gooeyness and the provolone provides flavour.

If you're looking for something a little different, you could try using Cheez Whiz, a popular option that has been described as "the sine qua non of cheesesteak connoisseurs". Cooper Sharp, a pasteurized process American cheese with a higher milkfat content, is another option that's been gaining traction. Or, if you want to go really fancy, you could make a beer/cheese sauce.

Ultimately, the best cheese for your cheesesteak sandwich comes down to personal preference. So, feel free to experiment with different cheeses and find the one that you like the most!

What is the history of the cheese steak sandwich?

The cheesesteak sandwich, also known as the Philadelphia cheesesteak, Philly cheesesteak, cheesesteak sandwich, cheese steak, or steak and cheese, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. It is a popular regional fast food with its roots in the United States city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The Origins of the Cheesesteak Sandwich

The cheesesteak was developed in the early 20th century, according to a 1987 exhibition catalog published by the Library Company of Philadelphia and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. The catalog states that the sandwich was created by "combining frizzled beef, onions, and cheese in a small loaf of bread."

The Olivieri Brothers and the Cheesesteak's Invention

Philadelphians Pat and Harry Olivieri are often credited with inventing the sandwich by serving chopped steak on an Italian roll in the early 1930s. According to various accounts, Pat and Harry Olivieri originally owned a hot dog stand, and on one occasion, decided to make a new sandwich using chopped beef and grilled onions. While Pat was eating the sandwich, a cab driver stopped by, asked for one, and after eating it, suggested that Olivieri quit making hot dogs and instead focus on the new sandwich.

The Addition of Cheese

The sandwich was originally prepared without cheese, and it wasn't until the 1940s that provolone cheese was first added by "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location. However, there is no documentary evidence to support this story, and like many origin stories, it may be apocryphal.

The Spread of the Cheesesteak

Cheesesteaks have become a popular menu item at restaurants and food carts throughout Philadelphia, with many locations being independently owned, family-run businesses. Variations of the cheesesteak can now be found at high-end restaurants and fast-food chains across the United States, often referred to as "Philly cheesesteaks."

How do you make a cheese steak sandwich?

How to Make a Cheese Steak Sandwich

Ingredients

Firstly, you will need to gather your ingredients. The quantities listed here serve four people.

• 1 pound of beef (ribeye or sirloin)
• 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 green bell pepper, julienned
• 3-4 ounces of cheese (provolone, Swiss, American, or Cheese Whiz)
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 2-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, pressed
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

• Cherry peppers
• Ketchup
• Mushrooms
• Worcestershire sauce
• Chilli powder
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Thyme
• Marjoram
• Basil

Method

• Thinly slice the beef into strips. Cover and freeze your steak for 30-40 minutes to make it easier to slice.
• Mix salt, pepper, and any other desired spices in a small bowl.
• Place the steak in a large bowl and sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the top. Stir to coat.
• Heat half of the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Transfer the cooked steak to a plate.
• Heat the remaining oil in the skillet. Add the onion and green pepper. Cook and stir until tender and caramelized.
• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
• Divide the cooked beef between the bottoms of the rolls.
• Layer with onion and green pepper.
• Top with sliced cheese. Place on a cookie sheet.
• Broil in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted.
• Cover with the tops of the rolls and serve.

Tips

• If you want to toast your hoagie rolls, do so before adding the other ingredients.
• If you are slicing the beef yourself, freezing the steak for 30 minutes will make it easier to slice.
• If you want to add mushrooms, cook them separately in a hot pan to ensure they are browned rather than soggy.
• If you are making multiple sandwiches, wrap each hoagie in aluminium foil and place them on a baking sheet in the oven to melt the cheese and let the flavours meld.

What are some common additions to a cheese steak sandwich?

There are many different opinions on what constitutes a "true" Philly cheesesteak sandwich, and what can be added to it. Some purists insist that the sandwich should only consist of steak and cheese, while others argue that onions, peppers, and mushrooms are also essential.

Some common additions to a cheesesteak sandwich include:

• Onions: These can be raw, grilled, or sautéed, and add a savoury kick to the sandwich.
• Peppers: Bell peppers, jalapeños, or cherry peppers can be used to add a spicy kick or a burst of colour.
• Mushrooms: These can add some extra texture and flavour to the sandwich.
• Lettuce: Shredded lettuce can provide a crunchy texture and a fresh taste.
• Condiments: Horseradish sauce, ketchup, or mayonnaise can be added for extra flavour.
• Bacon: Adding bacon can provide a smoky flavour and a crispy texture.

It's worth noting that some people argue that adding too many extra toppings or condiments takes away from the classic cheesesteak experience and turns it into a more general steak and cheese sandwich. Ultimately, it's up to personal preference how you choose to build your cheesesteak sandwich.

What are some variations of the cheese steak sandwich?

The classic cheesesteak sandwich, also known as the Philadelphia cheesesteak, Philly cheesesteak, cheese steak, or steak and cheese, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. The meat traditionally used is thinly sliced rib-eye or top round, although other cuts of beef such as sirloin are also used. The cheese is often American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz, but other varieties such as Swiss, mozzarella, and Cheddar are sometimes used.

The cheesesteak is a popular regional fast food with roots in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and has spawned numerous variations. Here are some of the most common:

Mushroom Cheesesteak

Mushrooms are not a traditional topping for a cheesesteak, but they have become popular as they add juiciness that pairs well with the fat from the steak.

Pepper Cheesesteak

Peppers, especially green bell peppers, hot cherry peppers, or sweet peppers, are a common addition to the cheesesteak. They bring flavours that play well with both the cheese and the steak.

Steak Milano or Pizza Steak

This variation includes fried or grilled tomatoes and oregano, adding moisture and a subtle kick to the sandwich.

Cheesesteak Hoagie

The cheesesteak hoagie contains lettuce and tomato in addition to the traditional steak sandwich ingredients. It may also contain other elements typically served in a hoagie.

Vegan Cheesesteak

A vegan variation replaces the steak with vegan ingredients such as seitan or mushrooms and uses soy-based cheese.

The Heater

A spicy variation served at Phillies baseball games, The Heater is topped with jalapeños, Buffalo sauce, and jalapeño cheddar.

Chicken Cheesesteak or Chicken Philly

This variation substitutes chicken for the beef.

These are just a few examples of the many variations of the classic cheesesteak sandwich. Each variation offers a unique twist on the traditional flavours, showcasing the versatility and enduring popularity of this iconic sandwich.

Frequently asked questions