Patrick Oconnell
When enjoying a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, the choice of sides can elevate the entire meal. Popular options include crispy, golden fries that complement the richness of the sandwich, or a refreshing side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the heaviness. For a heartier pairing, consider creamy macaroni and cheese or a warm bowl of cheese fries, both of which enhance the cheesy goodness of the sandwich. Additionally, a cup of hearty soup, like tomato or mushroom, can provide a comforting contrast. Don’t forget beverages—a cold soda, iced tea, or even a local craft beer pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Side Dishes | French fries, onion rings, sweet potato fries, tater tots, coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni salad, chips (e.g., kettle-cooked or ridged), pickles (e.g., dill or bread-and-butter) |
| Beverages | Soda (e.g., root beer, cola), beer (e.g., lager, IPA), lemonade, iced tea, milkshakes, water, sports drinks |
| Condiments | Ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, giardiniera, banana peppers |
| Additional Toppings | Bacon, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, jalapeños, roasted red peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado |
| Desserts | Cheesecake, chocolate cake, brownies, cookies, ice cream, fruit salad |
| Popular Pairings | Tomato soup, chili, grilled vegetables, salad (e.g., Caesar or garden), buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks |
| Regional Variations | In Philadelphia: often served with Cheez Whiz; elsewhere: provolone or American cheese, sometimes with additional meats like salami or pepperoni |
| Dietary Options | Gluten-free bread, vegan cheese, low-sodium condiments, grilled instead of fried sides |
| Serving Suggestions | Served on a hoagie roll, wrapped in foil to retain heat, often eaten with a fork and knife due to its messiness |
| Time of Day | Commonly a lunch or dinner option, occasionally as a late-night snack |
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What You'll Learn
- Crispy Sides: French fries, potato chips, or tater tots for added crunch and texture contrast
- Vegetable Pairings: Pickles, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad to balance richness with freshness
- Soup Options: Tomato, broccoli cheddar, or clam chowder for a warm, comforting combo
- Snack Additions: Pretzels, popcorn, or soft pretzel bites for a casual, savory pairing
- Drink Matches: Root beer, iced tea, or a cold beer to complement the cheesy flavors
Crispy Sides: French fries, potato chips, or tater tots for added crunch and texture contrast
A Philly cheese sandwich, with its gooey, savory filling, cries out for a textural counterpoint. Enter the crispy side—a category dominated by French fries, potato chips, and tater tots. These aren’t just afterthoughts; they’re strategic partners in elevating the meal. Each option brings a distinct crunch that contrasts the sandwich’s softness, creating a dynamic eating experience. But which one reigns supreme? It depends on the crunch-to-effort ratio you’re after.
French fries are the classic choice, and for good reason. Their golden, crispy exterior and fluffy interior provide a satisfying snap with every bite. Opt for thick-cut fries if you’re pairing with a hearty sandwich—their sturdiness holds up to dense fillings like steak or melted cheese. Thin, shoestring fries, on the other hand, offer a lighter crunch, ideal for balancing a richer sandwich. Pro tip: Season them with a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to complement the sandwich’s flavors without overpowering it.
Potato chips, often overlooked as a side, deserve a second look. Their thin, shatteringly crisp texture adds a high-pitched crunch that’s unparalleled. For maximum impact, choose kettle-cooked chips—their uneven edges and robust crunch stand up to the sandwich’s heft. Serve them on the side rather than inside the sandwich (unless you’re aiming for a messy, textural explosion). A small handful per bite is enough to introduce crunch without overwhelming the sandwich’s flavors.
Tater tots, the underdog of the trio, bring a nostalgic, bite-sized crunch to the table. Their cylindrical shape and crispy exterior make them easy to eat alongside a sandwich. Tater tots are best when piping hot, so time their cooking to coincide with the sandwich’s assembly. For an extra kick, sprinkle them with everything bagel seasoning or dip them in a tangy aioli. Their uniformity in size also makes them a kid-friendly option, though adults will appreciate their playful texture just as much.
The key to mastering crispy sides lies in balance. Too much crunch can distract from the sandwich’s star qualities, while too little leaves the meal feeling one-note. Aim for a 1:1 ratio of sandwich to side by volume—enough to provide contrast without overshadowing. And remember, temperature matters: serve both sandwich and side hot to ensure the crunch remains intact. With these tips, you’ll transform a simple Philly cheese sandwich into a multi-textured masterpiece.
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Vegetable Pairings: Pickles, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad to balance richness with freshness
A Philly cheesesteak sandwich, with its melty cheese and savory meat, can feel indulgent. To cut through that richness and add a refreshing contrast, vegetables are key. But not just any vegetables – think crisp, tangy, and vibrant.
Pickles, for instance, are a classic pairing. Their briny snap provides a sharp counterpoint to the sandwich’s creaminess. Opt for dill pickles for a traditional bite or bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter edge. For maximum impact, slice them thinly and layer them directly on the sandwich. Pro tip: If you’re making them at home, a quick pickle recipe using cucumber, vinegar, sugar, and spices takes just 30 minutes and keeps for weeks in the fridge.
Coleslaw offers a different kind of balance. Its shredded cabbage base provides crunch, while a creamy dressing (think mayo or yogurt-based) adds a subtle tang without overwhelming the sandwich. For a lighter twist, try a vinegar-based coleslaw, which brings acidity and brightness. Serve it on the side rather than inside the sandwich to avoid sogginess. A 1:1 ratio of slaw to sandwich bites works well for texture and flavor harmony.
A fresh green salad is the understated hero here. Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing create a palate cleanser between bites. Add sliced cucumbers or radishes for extra crunch. Keep the dressing simple—olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper—to avoid competing with the sandwich’s flavors. Aim for a 2:1 ratio of greens to dressing to prevent wilting.
Each of these vegetable pairings serves a purpose: pickles for acidity, coleslaw for crunch and tang, and salad for freshness. Together, they transform a hearty sandwich into a balanced meal. Experiment with combinations—pickle-topped sandwich with a side of slaw, perhaps—to find your perfect match. The goal? A bite that feels indulgent yet invigorating, rich yet light.
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Soup Options: Tomato, broccoli cheddar, or clam chowder for a warm, comforting combo
A Philly cheese sandwich, with its gooey, savory filling, pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of soup. But not just any soup—you need something that complements the richness without overwhelming it. Enter the trio of tomato, broccoli cheddar, and clam chowder, each offering a distinct flavor profile and texture to elevate your meal. Let’s break down why these soups work and how to choose the right one for your craving.
Tomato soup is the classic choice, and for good reason. Its bright, tangy acidity cuts through the heaviness of the sandwich, creating a balanced bite. Opt for a smooth, creamy version rather than a chunky one to contrast the sandwich’s texture. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of basil-infused olive oil. This pairing is especially ideal for lighter appetites or those seeking a nostalgic, comforting combo. Pro tip: Serve the soup slightly warmer than the sandwich to maintain its temperature throughout the meal.
Broccoli cheddar soup takes the comfort factor up a notch. Its creamy, cheesy base mirrors the richness of the Philly sandwich, making it a decadent duo. The broccoli adds a subtle earthy note and a slight crunch, preventing the pairing from feeling monotonous. However, this option is best for those who don’t mind a heavier meal. To avoid overindulgence, keep portion sizes moderate—a cup of soup with a half sandwich is often enough. Pair with a crisp green salad on the side to add freshness.
Clam chowder brings a seafood twist to the table, ideal for those craving something heartier and more complex. Its briny, creamy flavor profile complements the salty, meaty elements of the sandwich, while the tender clams and potatoes add substance. This pairing is perfect for a chilly day or a more indulgent lunch. Be mindful of sodium levels, though—clam chowder can be high in salt, so consider a low-sodium version or balance it with unsalted crackers. For a complete meal, add a side of crusty bread to soak up the soup.
In choosing among these soups, consider your mood and the occasion. Tomato soup is versatile and crowd-pleasing, broccoli cheddar is indulgent and satisfying, and clam chowder is bold and adventurous. Whichever you pick, the key is to let the soup enhance, not overshadow, the Philly cheese sandwich. Experiment with these options to find your perfect warm, comforting combo.
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Snack Additions: Pretzels, popcorn, or soft pretzel bites for a casual, savory pairing
Pretzels, popcorn, and soft pretzel bites offer a trifecta of casual, savory options to complement the rich, cheesy indulgence of a Philly cheese sandwich. Each snack brings its own texture and flavor profile to the pairing, enhancing the experience without overwhelming the sandwich’s signature taste. Pretzels, with their salty crunch, act as a palate cleanser between bites, while popcorn’s light, airy texture adds a playful contrast to the sandwich’s density. Soft pretzel bites, warm and doughy, mirror the comfort of the sandwich itself, creating a cohesive, satisfying meal.
For optimal pairing, consider the portion size and preparation method. A handful of pretzels (about 1 ounce) or a small bowl of popcorn (2–3 cups) strikes the right balance without overshadowing the sandwich. Soft pretzel bites, ideally 4–6 pieces, should be served warm to maintain their chewy texture. For added depth, lightly season popcorn with garlic powder or nutritional yeast, or dip pretzels in a tangy mustard sauce. These tweaks elevate the pairing while keeping it simple and approachable.
The appeal of these snacks lies in their versatility and accessibility. Pretzels and popcorn are pantry staples, making them convenient for impromptu meals, while soft pretzel bites can be store-bought or homemade for a fresher touch. For families, popcorn is a kid-friendly option, and pretzels can be a healthier alternative to chips. Soft pretzel bites, however, are best enjoyed fresh, so plan to serve them immediately after warming. This trio caters to various preferences, ensuring everyone at the table finds a satisfying match for their sandwich.
In practice, the key to a successful pairing is mindful contrast. The Philly cheese sandwich’s gooey, savory interior benefits from the crispness of pretzels or the lightness of popcorn. Soft pretzel bites, on the other hand, amplify the sandwich’s comforting qualities, making them ideal for colder days or cozy gatherings. Experiment with combinations—a pretzel for crunch, popcorn for fun, and a pretzel bite for warmth—to create a dynamic, multi-textured meal. This approach transforms a simple sandwich into a well-rounded, memorable dining experience.
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Drink Matches: Root beer, iced tea, or a cold beer to complement the cheesy flavors
Root beer, iced tea, and cold beer each bring distinct qualities to the table when paired with a Philly cheese sandwich, but their effectiveness hinges on balancing the dish’s rich, savory profile. Root beer, with its sweet, creamy notes and mild carbonation, acts as a counterpoint to the sharp, salty cheese and tangy steak. Its vanilla and sassafras undertones soften the sandwich’s intensity without overwhelming it, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a nostalgic, comforting pairing. For best results, opt for a chilled, lightly carbonated root beer and serve in a frosted mug to enhance its refreshing qualities.
Iced tea, particularly unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties, offers a cleaner, more neutral complement to the sandwich’s bold flavors. Its subtle bitterness and tannic structure cut through the grease and richness of the cheese and meat, providing a palate-cleansing effect. Adding a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint can elevate the pairing, introducing a bright, aromatic element that contrasts the sandwich’s heaviness. This option is especially suitable for those who prefer a lighter, more hydrating beverage to offset the meal’s density.
Cold beer, a classic companion to hearty sandwiches, excels here due to its effervescence and bitterness, which counteract the creaminess of the cheese. A crisp lager or pilsner works best, as their clean, slightly hoppy profiles refresh the palate without competing with the sandwich’s flavors. For a bolder twist, consider a wheat beer or hefeweizen, whose banana and clove notes can complement the sandwich’s savory-sweet balance. Serve the beer at 40–45°F (4–7°C) to maximize its refreshing qualities, and pour into a chilled glass to maintain its carbonation.
When deciding among these options, consider the sandwich’s preparation and your personal preference. For a traditional Philly with provolone and grilled onions, root beer’s sweetness harmonizes beautifully. If the sandwich leans heavier on the meat and peppers, iced tea’s crispness provides a refreshing contrast. And for those who enjoy a more indulgent pairing, beer’s versatility makes it a fail-safe choice. Each beverage not only complements the flavors but also enhances the overall dining experience, turning a simple sandwich into a well-rounded meal.
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Frequently asked questions
Traditional accompaniments include cheese fries, onion rings, or a simple side of crispy potato chips.
Absolutely! Sautéed peppers, onions, and mushrooms are popular additions to the sandwich itself, but you can also serve them as a side dish for a healthier option.
Many enjoy a side of ranch dressing, hot sauce, or a tangy cheese sauce for dipping their sandwich or fries.
A cold, refreshing beer is a common choice, but you can also opt for a soda, milkshake, or a classic Philadelphia-style drink like a birch beer.
While the sandwich is quite filling, some might enjoy a sweet treat afterward. A classic Philadelphia dessert like a soft pretzel with mustard or a slice of cheesecake could be a great way to end the meal.
