The Philly steak and cheese sandwich is a beloved classic that has been satisfying the cravings of meat lovers for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled high on a crusty roll. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect Philly steak and cheese sandwich.
A Brief History of the Philly Steak and Cheese Sandwich
The origins of the Philly steak and cheese sandwich can be traced back to the 1930s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. According to legend, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly steak and cheese was born.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making a great Philly steak and cheese sandwich, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. Here are some tips for selecting the best ingredients:
Steak
The type of steak you use is crucial to the success of your Philly steak and cheese sandwich. Look for thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak. You want the steak to be tender and easy to chew, so opt for a cut that is at least 1/4 inch thick.
Why Ribeye or Top Round?
Ribeye and top round steak are ideal for Philly steak and cheese sandwiches because they are tender, flavorful, and have a good balance of fat and lean meat. The fat content in these cuts of meat will help keep the steak juicy and flavorful, even when cooked to well-done.
Cheese
The type of cheese you use is also important. Look for a cheese that melts well, such as Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Why Cheez Whiz?
Cheez Whiz is a popular choice for Philly steak and cheese sandwiches because it melts easily and has a creamy texture. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a cheese that won’t overpower the flavor of the steak.
Onions
Sautéed onions are a key component of the Philly steak and cheese sandwich. Look for sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Maui onions, which will caramelize nicely when cooked.
Rolls
The type of roll you use is also important. Look for a crusty roll that will hold up to the juices of the steak and cheese. Amoroso rolls are a popular choice for Philly steak and cheese sandwiches, but you can also use a French baguette or a hoagie roll.
Cooking the Steak
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s talk about cooking the steak. Here are some tips for cooking the perfect steak:
Slicing the Steak
Before you cook the steak, make sure to slice it thinly against the grain. This will help the steak cook evenly and prevent it from becoming tough.
Seasoning the Steak
Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Keep in mind that the steak will be cooked quickly, so don’t over-season it.
Cooking the Steak
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Add the steak to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Why Medium-High Heat?
Cooking the steak over medium-high heat will help create a nice crust on the outside, while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the steak is cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here are some tips for assembling the perfect Philly steak and cheese sandwich:
Adding the Cheese
Add a slice or two of cheese to the roll, depending on your preference. You can also add a dollop of Cheez Whiz on top of the steak.
Adding the Onions
Add a spoonful of sautéed onions on top of the steak. You can also add some raw onions if you prefer.
Adding the Steak
Add the cooked steak to the roll, on top of the cheese and onions.
Why Assemble in This Order?
Assembling the sandwich in this order will help prevent the cheese from melting too much and the onions from getting soggy.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your Philly steak and cheese sandwich to the next level:
Adding Other Toppings
Consider adding some other toppings to your Philly steak and cheese sandwich, such as sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or hot peppers.
Using Different Types of Cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or gouda. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Adding a Sauce
Consider adding a sauce to your Philly steak and cheese sandwich, such as marinara or hot sauce.
Conclusion
The Philly steak and cheese sandwich is a classic that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. By following these tips and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a sandwich that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a fan of great food, the Philly steak and cheese sandwich is a must-try.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Steak (ribeye or top round) | 1 pound |
| Cheese (Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella) | 2 slices |
| Onions (sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Maui) | 1 medium onion |
| Rolls (crusty rolls, such as Amoroso or French baguette) | 4 rolls |
By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Philly steak and cheese sandwich. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of this classic sandwich!
What type of steak is best for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich?
The best type of steak for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich is thinly sliced ribeye or top round. These cuts of meat are tender, flavorful, and have a good balance of fat and lean meat, which makes them perfect for sautéing. You can also use other types of steak, such as sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye and top round are the most traditional choices.
When selecting a steak, look for one that is at least 1/4 inch thick and has a good marbling of fat throughout. This will help to keep the steak juicy and flavorful as it cooks. You can also ask your butcher to slice the steak thinly for you, or slice it yourself at home using a sharp knife.
What is the best type of cheese to use for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich?
The best type of cheese to use for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich is Cheez Whiz, a type of processed cheese spread. This may seem like an unusual choice, but it is a classic component of a traditional Philly steak and cheese sandwich. The creamy, melted texture of Cheez Whiz helps to balance out the savory flavor of the steak and adds a richness to the sandwich.
If you don’t have Cheez Whiz, you can also use other types of cheese, such as provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar. These cheeses will melt well and add a nice flavor to the sandwich, but they won’t have the same creamy texture as Cheez Whiz. You can also experiment with different combinations of cheeses to find the one that you like best.
How do I cook the steak for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich?
To cook the steak for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan, then add the sliced steak. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and cook it to at least 130°F for medium-rare.
As the steak cooks, use a spatula to break it up into small pieces and stir it frequently. This will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the steak from burning. You can also add aromatics, such as onions and bell peppers, to the pan with the steak for added flavor.
What type of bread is best for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Philly steak and cheese sandwich is a crusty Italian roll, such as an Amoroso roll. This type of bread is soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, which provides a nice texture contrast to the sandwich. You can also use other types of bread, such as a hoagie roll or a sub roll, but an Italian roll is the most traditional choice.
When selecting a bread, look for one that is fresh and has a good texture. You can also toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich, which will help to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
How do I assemble a Philly steak and cheese sandwich?
To assemble a Philly steak and cheese sandwich, start by placing a few slices of the cooked steak onto the bottom half of the bread roll. Next, add a spoonful of Cheez Whiz or other cheese on top of the steak. You can also add other toppings, such as sautéed onions and bell peppers, to the sandwich for added flavor.
Finally, place the top half of the bread roll onto the sandwich and serve immediately. You can also wrap the sandwich in foil or parchment paper and serve it as a take-out sandwich.
Can I make a Philly steak and cheese sandwich in advance?
While it is possible to make a Philly steak and cheese sandwich in advance, it is best to assemble the sandwich just before serving. This will help to ensure that the bread stays fresh and the cheese stays melted. If you need to make the sandwich in advance, you can cook the steak and prepare the toppings ahead of time, then assemble the sandwich just before serving.
You can also store the cooked steak and toppings in the refrigerator for up to a day, then reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling the sandwich. However, it is best to use fresh bread and cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Can I customize a Philly steak and cheese sandwich to suit my tastes?
Yes, you can customize a Philly steak and cheese sandwich to suit your tastes. Some popular variations include adding different types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella, or using different types of meat, such as chicken or pork. You can also add different toppings, such as sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños, to the sandwich for added flavor.
You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices to add more flavor to the sandwich. For example, you can add a sprinkle of dried oregano or thyme to the steak as it cooks, or use a spicy cheese spread instead of Cheez Whiz. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make the sandwich your own.