Cheese Steaks: Melty, Gooey, Cheesy Goodness Explained

The cheesesteak sandwich, also known as the Philly cheesesteak, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. The most commonly used cheeses or cheese products put on a Philly cheesesteak are American cheese, provolone, and Cheez Whiz. However, there are many different opinions on which cheese is best. Some people prefer a blend of provolone and mozzarella, while others prefer Cooper Sharp American cheese.

Provolone is the most popular cheese

Provolone is a sharp cheese with a strong flavour that pairs well with the other components of the sandwich. It melts easily, adding to the creamy texture of the cheesesteak. When making a Philly cheesesteak, it is important to use a cheese that melts well and complements the flavour of the steak. Provolone does just that, and its popularity among cheesesteak enthusiasts is a testament to its effectiveness in this iconic sandwich.

The history of the cheesesteak is a bit murky, with various stories and legends surrounding its origin. According to one account, the sandwich was first created in the early 1930s by brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri, who owned a hot dog stand in South Philadelphia. They are said to have invented the sandwich by serving chopped steak on an Italian roll. However, the addition of cheese to the sandwich is credited to "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location of Pat's shop.

Over the years, the cheesesteak has become a beloved regional fast food, with many establishments in Philadelphia and beyond serving their own versions. While there may be debates about the type of cheese to use, the consensus is that provolone is a favourite among cheesesteak aficionados. Its sharp, distinct flavour and melting properties make it an ideal choice for this iconic sandwich.

When making a Philly cheesesteak at home, one can choose from a variety of cheeses, including provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese. However, for those seeking an authentic experience, provolone is the way to go. Its popularity and longstanding association with the sandwich make it a classic choice that delivers a true taste of Philadelphia.

Cheez Whiz is a common alternative

The cheesesteak, also known as the Philly cheesesteak, is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is made with thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. While there are many varieties of cheese that can be used, Cheez Whiz is a common alternative.

Cheez Whiz, a shelf-stable cheese product sold in jars, was not available when the cheesesteak was invented in the early 1930s. However, it has since become a popular choice for cheesesteaks. Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese spread that is often favoured for its speed and ease of use, as it melts quickly and has a creamy, nacho cheese-like texture. Its convenience and ability to melt smoothly make it a popular choice for those seeking an authentic cheesesteak experience.

The original cheesesteak was created by brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri, who owned a hot dog stand in South Philadelphia. While the exact story is debated, it is believed that they first served chopped steak on an Italian roll, and the addition of cheese occurred later. According to some sources, the first cheese added to the sandwich was provolone, introduced by a manager named Joe Lorenza, also known as "Cocky Joe." However, Cheez Whiz eventually became a popular alternative.

Cheez Whiz is particularly favoured at Pat's King of Steaks, one of the original cheesesteak establishments in Philadelphia. It is said to be ""overwhelmingly the favourite" at Pat's, outselling the runner-up cheese, American, by a significant margin. Geno's, another famous cheesesteak shop, goes through eight to ten cases of Cheez Whiz a day, further illustrating its popularity.

While provolone and American cheese are also common choices for cheesesteaks, Cheez Whiz holds a special place in the hearts of many cheesesteak enthusiasts. Its smooth, creamy texture and convenience make it a popular alternative, contributing to the iconic status of the Philly cheesesteak.

American cheese is also used

While provolone and Cheez Whiz are the most common cheeses used in cheesesteaks, American cheese is also used and is considered an authentic option. In fact, some people consider it to be the "glue" of the sandwich.

American cheese is often melted to achieve a creamy consistency. It can also be placed in slices over the meat, melting slightly under the heat. American cheese has a gooeyness that is important to the sandwich. It can be used in combination with provolone cheese, which has a sharper bite.

A pasteurised process American cheese called Cooper Sharp is gaining popularity as a cheesesteak cheese option. It is made from aged cheddar and has a higher milkfat content, resulting in a sharper and creamier taste than ordinary American cheese.

When making a cheesesteak at home, you can use whichever cheese you prefer. However, if you're in Philadelphia, it's best to stick to provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese to avoid getting nasty looks from locals!

Cooper Sharp is a newer option

The cheesesteak, also known as the Philly cheesesteak, is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is made with thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. While the traditional cheesesteak is made with provolone or Cheez Whiz, a newer option that is gaining popularity is Cooper Sharp cheese.

Cooper Sharp is a "Pasteurized Process American Cheese", made from aged cheddar with a higher milkfat content. It has a sharper and creamier taste than ordinary American cheese. According to Kosuke Chujo, who runs a cheesesteak shop in Japan, Cooper Sharp is "very creamy and delicious with the perfect balance of salt".

Cooper Sharp is a relatively new option for cheesesteaks, only gaining popularity in 2023. It is a nice twist for those who want to switch up their classic cheesesteak. While some may prefer the traditional provolone or Cheez Whiz, Cooper Sharp offers a unique, creamy texture and a sharp flavour that complements the other ingredients in a cheesesteak sandwich.

For the perfect cheesesteak, it is important to use thinly sliced steak, typically ribeye or top round, and a long, crispy roll. The steak is cooked on a griddle and then combined with the cheese, which melts over the meat. The roll is then placed on top, and the sandwich is cut in half.

While the type of cheese is a matter of personal preference, Cooper Sharp is a great option for those who want to try something new. It offers a creamy texture and a sharp flavour that complements the other ingredients in a cheesesteak sandwich. So, if you're looking to switch up your cheesesteak game, Cooper Sharp is definitely worth considering!

Don't use Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella or parmesan

When it comes to cheesesteaks, the type of cheese you use is crucial. While there are several options that are considered acceptable, there are a few types of cheese that you should definitely avoid using: Swiss cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

First of all, Swiss cheese is a definite no-go for a cheesesteak. Ordering a cheesesteak with Swiss cheese in a traditional South Philly establishment may even get you some nasty looks from locals. This is not just a matter of taste preference; it's a matter of cultural sensitivity. In 2003, presidential candidate John Kerry caused quite a stir when he ordered his Pat's cheesesteak with Swiss cheese during his campaign trail.

Cheddar cheese is another type of cheese that you should avoid using on a cheesesteak. While cheddar may be a popular and versatile cheese, it is not suitable for this particular dish. The same goes for mozzarella. Mozzarella is a mild, semi-soft cheese with a slightly elastic texture that is beloved in many Italian dishes, but it is not the right choice for a cheesesteak.

Finally, Parmesan is a hard, crumbly cheese with a sharp, nutty flavor that is often grated over pasta dishes. While Parmesan may be tempting to use due to its strong flavor, it is not one of the traditional cheeses used in a cheesesteak. The cheeses that are typically used in a classic Philly cheesesteak are provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese. These cheeses have a creamy consistency and melt well, which is key to achieving the perfect cheesesteak.

While there may be some variation in the type of cheese used, depending on personal preference, it is generally agreed upon that Swiss cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are not suitable choices for this iconic sandwich. The cheesesteak is a beloved regional fast food that originated in Philadelphia, and it deserves to be treated with respect and authenticity.

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