The Perfect Cheese For Corned Beef Sandwiches

Corned beef sandwiches are a popular deli sandwich, often served on rye bread with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing. However, there are many variations on the corned beef sandwich, including different types of cheese, toppings, sauces, and breads. For example, some people prefer to use provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese, while others might add coleslaw, pickles, or caramelized onions. The type of bread can also vary, with options such as sourdough, pumpernickel, or marble rye. Ultimately, the corned beef sandwich is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Swiss cheese is a popular choice

Swiss cheese is a good option for corned beef sandwiches because it melts beautifully and complements the flavours of corned beef and sauerkraut. It is also a highly versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of sandwiches, such as grilled cheese. Swiss cheese is widely available in deli counters and can be purchased pre-sliced, making it a convenient choice for corned beef sandwiches.

When making a corned beef sandwich with Swiss cheese, it is recommended to use thick slices as they hold up better during the melting process. To achieve the perfect melt, a cast-iron skillet is ideal as it retains heat well and cooks the sandwich evenly.

Provolone is a mild alternative

Corned beef sandwiches are a classic, but the type of cheese you use can make or break the experience. While Swiss cheese is the most common choice, it's not the only option. If you're looking for a mild alternative, Provolone is an excellent choice. It has a subtle flavour that complements the beef and mustard without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese with a mild, slightly sweet taste. It melts beautifully, making it ideal for grilled sandwiches. When paired with corned beef, it creates a delicious, gooey texture that takes the sandwich to the next level.

To make the ultimate corned beef Provolone melt, start by caramelizing onions in butter and brown sugar. This will add a depth of flavour to your sandwich. Then, spread some grainy mustard on slices of rye bread (or your preferred bread) and layer on the Provolone, corned beef, and caramelized onions. For an extra touch of flavour, you can also add some sauerkraut or coleslaw.

Finally, grill your sandwich until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted to perfection. Enjoy the combination of crispy, buttery bread and the gooey, savoury filling. This sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings and is perfect for using up leftover corned beef.

So, if you're looking for a change from the traditional Swiss cheese, give Provolone a try. It's a mild, versatile cheese that will enhance your corned beef sandwich without overpowering the other ingredients. Enjoy experimenting with different flavours and textures to create your perfect sandwich!

Mozzarella is another option

Mozzarella melts beautifully, adding a gooey, stretchy texture to the sandwich. It is a great option for grilled corned beef sandwiches, where the melting cheese contrasts with the crispy, toasted bread. The key to achieving the perfect melt is to shred the mozzarella using a box grater. This ensures it melts evenly and creates a cohesive sandwich filling.

When making a corned beef and mozzarella sandwich, it's important to consider the other ingredients. Corned beef sandwiches typically include condiments such as spicy mayo, horseradish sauce, or mustard. Pickles, coleslaw, or sauerkraut add a crunchy texture and tangy flavour. Caramelized onions are also a popular addition, providing a sweet and savoury contrast to the other ingredients.

To assemble the sandwich, butter one side of each slice of bread and place the buttered side down in a skillet over medium heat. Spread mustard on the bread, followed by mozzarella cheese, corned beef, and any additional toppings. Cover with the other slice of bread, buttered side up, and grill until golden brown. Flip the sandwich and grill the other side until toasted and the cheese is melted.

Mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can be used in various sandwich combinations. For a classic approach, pair it with corned beef, mustard, and pickles on sourdough bread. For a more indulgent option, add caramelized onions and coleslaw to the mix. Mozzarella's mild flavour and excellent melting properties make it a suitable choice for corned beef sandwiches, providing a delicious and satisfying eating experience.

You could use cheddar for an Irish twist

Corned beef sandwiches are a classic, but what kind of cheese should you use? While Swiss cheese is a popular choice, you could use cheddar for an Irish twist. Imagine biting into a warm, toasty sandwich with melted cheddar, stacked with salty corned beef and a tangy sauce. It's a delicious way to switch up the traditional corned beef sandwich and embrace Irish flavours.

Cheddar cheese is a natural pairing with corned beef, especially if you can get your hands on some Irish cheddar. The sharpness of the cheddar will complement the saltiness of the corned beef, creating a flavourful bite. And if you really want to lean into the Irish theme, why not add some sautéed cabbage or caramelised onions to your sandwich?

When making a corned beef and cheddar sandwich, it's important to consider the other ingredients as well. You'll want to choose a bread that can stand up to the hearty filling. Sourdough, rye, or pumpernickel bread would all be excellent choices. For the sauce, you might opt for a tangy Russian dressing, a mild mayonnaise, or a spicy mustard to balance out the richness of the meat and cheese.

To assemble your corned beef and cheddar sandwich, start by buttering your chosen bread and placing a slice of cheddar on top. Then, add a generous portion of warm corned beef and any additional toppings you desire. Finally, top it off with another slice of bread and grill your sandwich until it's golden brown and the cheese is melted.

So, the next time you're craving a corned beef sandwich, why not give cheddar a try? It's a small change that can add a whole new dimension of flavour to this classic sandwich. Play around with different ingredients and sauces to create your perfect Irish-inspired corned beef and cheddar sandwich.

Or spice it up with Pepper Jack

Corned beef sandwiches are a popular and iconic deli sandwich. While Swiss cheese is the most common choice to accompany the corned beef, there are several other options to choose from. One option is to spice things up with Pepper Jack cheese.

Pepper Jack cheese is a spicy alternative to the classic Swiss cheese. It adds a kick to the traditional corned beef sandwich, giving it a unique flavour. If you're looking for something with a bit more heat, Pepper Jack is a great choice.

When making a corned beef sandwich with Pepper Jack cheese, it's important to consider the other ingredients as well. Corned beef sandwiches typically include sauerkraut, Russian or Thousand Island dressing, and rye bread. However, you can get creative and experiment with different toppings, sauces, and breads to suit your personal taste.

For example, if you're looking for a crunchier texture, you can try adding coleslaw instead of sauerkraut. You can also grill the sandwich for a warm and toasty treat. To make it even more indulgent, butter the outside slices of bread and grill it in a skillet until golden brown.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try other types of cheese with your corned beef sandwich. Muenster, Gouda, or butterkäse are excellent melting cheeses that can take your sandwich to the next level.

So, if you're looking to spice up your corned beef sandwich, Pepper Jack cheese is a fantastic option. With its spicy kick and melting texture, it's sure to elevate this classic sandwich into something extraordinary.

Frequently asked questions