When it comes to iconic street food in New York City, few sandwiches stir up nostalgia quite like the chopped cheese. This delicious blend of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and fresh toppings, all cradled in a soft roll, is comfort food at its finest.
But before we dive into making one of these savory delights, let me first give you the scoop on what you can pair with this dish to elevate your experience.
What Can You Pair with Chopped Cheese?
1. French Fries
Crispy, golden fries are a classic companion. You can opt for regular fries or try something fun like loaded fries topped with cheese and jalapeños.
2. Pickles
Adding a few slices of dill pickles can enhance the crunch in your meal, providing a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese.
3. Coleslaw
A side of cool, creamy coleslaw can balance out the warm, cheesy goodness of the chopped cheese and add texture.
4. Potato Chips
Choose BBQ or sour cream and onion flavors for a delightful crunch that complements every bite of your sandwich.
5. Soda or Lemonade
Wash it down with a nice cold soda or a refreshing lemonade. The acidity and sweetness make for an excellent palate cleanser between bites.
What is Chopped Cheese?
At its core, a chopped cheese sandwich consists of ground beef sautéed on a grill, topped with cheese, and served on a sub roll. It’s like the New York City cousin to the Philly cheesesteak but with a twist. The meat is often cooked until it’s nicely browned and then chopped up, mixed with melted cheese, and loaded onto a roll.
Traditionally, it’s finished off with fresh vegetables, including lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, along with condiments like mayo or ketchup.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Chopped cheese offers a delightful array of flavors. You’ll experience the savory, slightly caramelized taste of beef coupled with the creaminess of melted cheese. The freshness of the veggies adds a crunchy contrast, while a drizzle of mayonnaise or another condiment can bring creamy richness to each bite.
And speaking of richness, a hint of seasoning—garlic powder, black pepper, or even some chili flakes—can take your flavor game up a notch.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love chopped cheese because it’s:
– Quick and Easy: This sandwich assembles in no time, making it a perfect target for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
– Satisfying: The hearty blend of protein and cheese will leave you feeling full and content.
– Versatile: You can easily switch up ingredients based on your preferences. Want extra spice? Go for jalapeños. Prefer a certain cheese? Use that instead!
So, let’s get cooking. Here’s what you’ll need to make your very own chopped cheese.
Ingredients
Before you fire up the skillet, make sure you have the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for sautéing)
- 1 large ripe tomato, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup creamy mayonnaise (or try a garlic mayo for extra flavor)
- 8 slices classic American cheese (or cheddar for a twist)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish (adds tang and enhances depth)
- 1 1/4 pounds ground beef (lean or regular, based on your preference)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup shredded crisp lettuce
- 4 soft hoagie rolls or hot dog buns (your choice, lightly toasted if desired)
- 1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want it nice and browned. This process usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Meat
While the beef is cooking, sprinkle the kosher salt and black pepper over the meat. Stir it well to distribute the seasoning. This brings out the flavor of the beef and gives it that extra punch.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once your beef is cooked through, lower the heat to medium-low. Lay the slices of cheese over the meat. Let it melt. Cover it with a lid if you want faster melting. The goal here is to create a gooey, cheesy layer that envelops the chopped beef.
Step 4: Prepare Your Rolls
While the cheese melts, take your hoagie rolls or buns and place them in the oven on a low broil for about 2–3 minutes. This step is optional, but toasting the rolls adds a lovely texture.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwich
Now it’s time to build your masterpiece. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture into the toasted rolls. Then, layer on the sliced onions, fresh lettuce, and tomato. Top it with a drizzle of mayonnaise and the dill pickle relish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Cut your sandwich in half if you’re feeling shareable. Serve immediately, preferably while it’s still warm. Trust me; nothing beats that first bite.
Tips & Tricks
– Don’t Rush the Cooking: Letting the beef get a nice brown color is key. This enhances the flavor.
– Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack for some spice or provolone for a creamy texture.
– Add More Veggies: Bell peppers or jalapeños can add great flavor and texture.
– Leftovers?: If you have leftover chopped cheese mixture, reheat it for breakfast with eggs for a delicious omelet filling.
– Don’t Forget the Sauce: Use various sauces like sriracha, barbecue, or hot sauce for unique flavor profiles.
Of course, these numbers can vary based on your choice of cheese and additions.
How Can You Store This Chopped Cheese?
If you find yourself with leftover chopped cheese, here’s how to store it safely:
1. Cool Down: Let the mixture cool completely before storing.
2. Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Reheat Properly: When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Ingredient Alternatives
Sometimes you might be caught short on a few ingredients. Don’t worry; here are some substitutions you can use:
– Ground Beef: Ground Turkey or Chicken – These leaner meats can cut down on fat but still taste great.
– Classic American Cheese: Swiss Cheese – Offers a nuttier flavor.
– Mayonnaise: Greek Yogurt – A healthier alternative for that creamy texture while adding protein.
Conclusion
Chopped cheese isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a journey through taste and memories. From those first sizzling moments on the stovetop to the satisfying crunch of the fresh toppings, each bite can transport you back to a sunny day on a New York City street corner.
Whether you enjoy it with fries or on its own, chopped cheese is easy to whip up and customize to your liking. So next time you’re looking for a quick meal that’s bursting with flavor, reach for your skillet and create your own masterpiece. Happy cooking!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Chopped Cheese Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook
Description
Ah, chopped cheese. This sandwich is the unsung hero of the New York City deli scene. It may not have the same fame as pizza or bagels, but make no mistake—it has its loyal fanbase. The beauty of chopped cheese lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a culinary degree to appreciate or make this tasty treat, and it comes together in a matter of minutes. Each mouthful is a mosaic of flavors and textures that will evoke fond memories and moments of joy.
In fact, I still remember the first time I had one. I wandered into a corner deli on a whim, feeling a bit adventurous after a long day exploring the city. The cook behind the counter whipped up a chopped cheese with conviction. One bite, and I was hooked. The blend of beef, cheese, and toppings was heavenly. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to recreate that first experience.
Let’s dig deeper into what makes this sandwich so special.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
-
Start by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want it nice and browned. This process usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Meat
-
While the beef is cooking, sprinkle the kosher salt and black pepper over the meat. Stir it well to distribute the seasoning. This brings out the flavor of the beef and gives it that extra punch.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
-
Once your beef is cooked through, lower the heat to medium-low. Lay the slices of cheese over the meat. Let it melt. Cover it with a lid if you want faster melting. The goal here is to create a gooey, cheesy layer that envelops the chopped beef.
Step 4: Prepare Your Rolls
-
While the cheese melts, take your hoagie rolls or buns and place them in the oven on a low broil for about 2–3 minutes. This step is optional, but toasting the rolls adds a lovely texture.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwich
-
Now it’s time to build your masterpiece. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture into the toasted rolls. Then, layer on the sliced onions, fresh lettuce, and tomato. Top it with a drizzle of mayonnaise and the dill pickle relish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
-
Cut your sandwich in half if you’re feeling shareable. Serve immediately, preferably while it’s still warm. Trust me; nothing beats that first bite.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 659kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 51.5g80%
- Saturated Fat 23.7g119%
- Trans Fat 2g
- Cholesterol 154mg52%
- Sodium 1185mg50%
- Total Carbohydrate 9g3%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 40g80%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Don't Rush the Cooking: Letting the beef get a nice brown color is key. This enhances the flavor.
- Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack for some spice or provolone for a creamy texture.
- - Add More Veggies: Bell peppers or jalapeños can add great flavor and texture.
- - Leftovers?: If you have leftover chopped cheese mixture, reheat it for breakfast with eggs for a delicious omelet filling.
- Don’t Forget the Sauce: Use various sauces like sriracha, barbecue, or hot sauce for unique flavor profiles.
