This Chopped Cheese Sandwich is a taste of NYC’s vibrant food culture!
With its savory beef, melted cheese, and array of toppings, this sandwich offers a satisfying experience for any food enthusiast.
Try making your own version at home and discover why it’s become a must-try for sandwich lovers everywhere.
It’s quick and easy to make and therefore perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Enjoy!
What is a Chopped Cheese Sandwich?
If you’re not from NYC, you might be wondering what exactly a chopped cheese sandwich is.
Originating from the bodegas and delis of Harlem and the Bronx, this sandwich is a delicious blend of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, sautéed onions, and peppers, all served on a toasted hoagie roll.
Serving Suggestions for Chopped Cheese Sandwich
Pickles and Potato Chips: Serve with dill pickles on the side and a handful of your favorite potato chips for a classic sandwich combo.
Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a lighter option that complements the hearty sandwich.
Fries: Serve alongside crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal.
Soup: Enjoy with a cup of tomato soup or chicken noodle soup for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Coleslaw: Serve with creamy coleslaw for a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm sandwich.
Fresh Fruit: Accompany with fresh fruit slices such as watermelon, pineapple, or grapes for a refreshing touch.
These serving suggestions will enhance the enjoyment of your Chopped Cheese Sandwich and provide a balanced and satisfying meal.
Tips & Tricks
Quality Ground Beef: Use ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (around 85% lean) for juicier and more flavorful meat.
Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper as it cooks to enhance its flavor.
Vegetable Cooking Order: Cook the onions and bell peppers until they are caramelized and softened before mixing them with the ground beef for optimal flavor and texture.
Cheese Melting: Add the cheese slices to the hot beef mixture so they melt slightly, creating a gooey and delicious filling for the sandwich.
Toasting the Rolls: Toast the rolls before assembling the sandwich to add a nice crunch and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Condiment Choices: Customize the sandwich with your favorite condiments such as mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, or hot sauce for added flavor.
Serving Immediately: Enjoy the sandwich while it’s hot and fresh for the best taste and texture experience.
Portion Control: Divide the filling evenly between the rolls to ensure each sandwich is balanced and satisfying.
These tips will help you create a mouthwatering Chopped Cheese Sandwich that’s full of flavor and perfectly executed every time!
Recipe FAQ’s
What beverages pair well with a chopped cheese sandwich?
A cold soda, craft beer, or iced tea complements the flavors of the sandwich nicely.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While American cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor.
What is the origin of the chopped cheese sandwich?
The chopped cheese sandwich originated in the bodegas of Harlem and the Bronx in New York City.
Chopped Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ½ lb ground beef 85% lean recommended
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion thinly sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 4 slices American cheese or your preferred cheese
- 2 small sub rolls or hero rolls split
- Mayonnaise optional
- Mustard optional
- Ketchup optional
- Hot sauce optional
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Onions and Bell Peppers:Push the ground beef to one side of the skillet. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the other side. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Combine and Chop:Mix the cooked onions and bell peppers with the ground beef. Using the edge of the spatula or a flat utensil, chop and mix everything together in the skillet. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Toast the Rolls:Meanwhile, toast the split rolls in a toaster oven or under the broiler until lightly golden.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:If desired, spread mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, or hot sauce on the toasted rolls. Divide the chopped beef mixture evenly among the rolls.
- Add Cheese:Place 2 slices of American cheese on top of each sandwich while the beef mixture is still hot, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Serve:Close the sandwiches and serve immediately while warm and gooey.