Chopped Cheese Sandwich

This Chopped Cheese Sandwich recipe is a mouthwatering combination of seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, and your favorite condiments, all nestled in a soft hero roll. This iconic New York staple is easy to make and perfect for quick lunches or weeknight meals.

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What is a Chopped Cheese

It’s a type of sandwich that originated in the New York City area, particularly in the Harlem and Bronx neighborhoods, and are often associated with bodegas, corner stores, and delis. It’s super popular and usually includes the following key ingredients:

• Ground Beef: The core of the sandwich consists of seasoned, ground beef, often cooked on a griddle or flat-top grill. The beef is typically chopped or minced during cooking, giving the sandwich its name.
• Cheese: American cheese is typically melted on top of the chopped beef to create a creamy, gooey consistency.
• Roll or Bread: These are traditionally served on a hero roll or sub roll. The roll is usually toasted or grilled for added flavor and texture.
• Toppings: Various toppings can be added to the sandwich, depending on personal preferences. Common options include lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, and hot sauce.

What Type of Bread to Use

• Hero Roll (Sub Roll): The classic choice, a hero roll is often the go-to bread for a chopped cheese sandwich. It’s readily available in most delis and bakeries.
• Italian Bread: A fresh loaf of Italian bread is a good alternative. It has a similar texture and flavor to a hero roll.
• French Baguette: A baguette can be used for a more rustic take. It offers a crunchy crust and soft crumb.

What Type of Cheese to Use

The authentic sandwich is usually made with American cheese. American cheese is known for its meltability and creamy texture, which makes it a popular choice for creating the signature gooey and cheesy filling of the sandwich.

Here are some other options:

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar cheese can add a more robust and tangy flavor to your sandwich. It melts beautifully and complements the beef.
• Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a different texture. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy Swiss cheese’s unique taste.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: If you like a spicy kick, pepper jack cheese with its bits of jalapeño pepper can add some heat.
• Provolone Cheese: Provolone has a mild, slightly smoky flavor that can pair well with beef. It melts smoothly and provides a creamy consistency.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is another classic melting cheese, known for its stretchiness. It has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: Monterey Jack is a versatile cheese that offers a mild, buttery flavor. It melts nicely and works well.

Spices and Seasoning

I use my Homemade Burger Rub and Seasoning. You can also use a store-bought burger rub if preferred.

How to Make Chopped Cheese Sandwich

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. In a large skillet or pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles.
2. Drain any excess fat from the beef.
3. Add in Worcestershire sauce, sliced onions, spices, and garlic. Stir and cook until the onions are soft and fragrant.
4. Once the beef is fully cooked, seasoned, and crumbled, add the cheese to the skillet. Stir the cheese into the hot beef.
5. Load the beef onto buns with condiments, lettuce, tomatoes, and additional cheese if you prefer a very cheesy sandwich.

How to Substitute Beef

Ground turkey, either lean or with some fat content, can be a healthier alternative to beef. It’s lighter in flavor but can be just as delicious when seasoned well.

Similar to ground turkey, ground chicken provides a leaner and milder flavor.

Ground pork can add a unique and slightly sweet flavor to your chopped cheese. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy pork.

How to Chop the Cheese and the Beef

1. Once the beef is fully cooked and crumbled, add the cheese to the skillet.
2. Stir the cheese into the hot beef, allowing it to melt and mix with the meat.
3. Continue to cook for a minute or two, just until the cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the chopped beef.
4. Once the cheese is fully melted into the beef, turn off the heat.

Condiments and Add-ins

• Mayo
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Hot Sauce
• Barbecue Sauce
• Ranch Dressing
• Thousand Island Dressing
• Aioli
• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Onions
• Bell Peppers
• Pickles
• Jalapeños
• Olives
• Mushrooms
• Bacon
• Avocado

How to Store

Store leftover cooked beef in the fridge tightly covered and sealed for 3-4 days. I don’t recommend storing assembled sandwiches. The bread will turn soggy and the texture will lose its appeal.

How to Reheat

You can reheat leftover beef in the microwave or on the stove at medium heat until warm.

Freezer Tips

Cooked beef can typically be stored in the freezer for 2 to 3 months without a significant loss of quality. After that, it’s safe to eat but may not taste as fresh.

Pair With These Recipes

Air Fryer French Fries
Southern Coleslaw
Soul Food Potato Salad
Southern Style Soul Food Baked Mac and Cheese
Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob

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