Chopped Cheese Recipe: If you’re a sandwich lover, you need to try the legendary chopped cheese! This mouthwatering sandwich originated in New York City and has become a staple in many bodegas. It’s a mix between a cheeseburger and a cheesesteak, offering a flavorful, juicy, and cheesy experience in every bite.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect chopped cheese at home, step by step. You’ll learn what ingredients to use, the best way to cook it, and tips to take your sandwich to the next level. Let’s get started!
What is Chopped Cheese?
Chopped cheese, often called “chop cheese”, is a New York City bodega classic. It consists of ground beef, onions, and melted cheese, all chopped together on a grill and served inside a hero roll with lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments like mayo and ketchup.
How is it Different from a Cheesesteak?
Many people confuse chopped cheese with Philly cheesesteak, but there are key differences:
- Chopped Cheese uses ground beef, while cheesesteaks use sliced steak.
- The beef and cheese are chopped together in chopped cheese, while in cheesesteaks, they remain separate.
- Chopped cheese is a New York bodega special, while cheesesteaks are a Philadelphia staple.
Now that you know what it is, let’s move on to the ingredients.
Ingredients Needed
To make an authentic chopped cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Ground Beef – 80/20 for the best flavor
- Cheese – American cheese is the classic choice
- Hero Roll – A soft but sturdy sub roll works best
- Onion – Yellow or white onions for a slight sweetness
- Butter or Oil – For cooking
Toppings & Condiments:
- Lettuce – Shredded for texture
- Tomato – Sliced thin
- Mayonnaise – Creamy and rich
- Ketchup & Mustard – Classic additions
- Salt & Pepper – To season the beef
With everything ready, let’s check out the tools you’ll need.
Kitchen Tools Required
For the best results, make sure you have the right kitchen tools:
- Flat-top griddle or cast iron pan – Helps with even cooking
- Spatula – Essential for chopping the beef and flipping the sandwich
- Sharp knife – For slicing ingredients
- Cutting board – To prep everything neatly
Now, let’s start cooking!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make a perfect chopped cheese sandwich:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Dice your onions and slice the tomatoes.
- Shred the lettuce.
- Slice the hero roll in half.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
- Heat your pan or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Add a little oil or butter, then toss in the diced onions.
- Once onions are softened, add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper.
- Use your spatula to chop the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
- Once the beef is fully cooked, place slices of American cheese on top.
- Let the cheese melt for about 30 seconds, then mix it into the beef using the spatula.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread mayo on the hero roll.
- Add the chopped beef and cheese mixture.
- Top with lettuce, tomatoes, ketchup, and mustard.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Close the sandwich and serve it while it’s hot!
- Enjoy with fries, chips, or a cold drink.
Best Bread for Chopped Cheese
A hero roll is the traditional choice because it’s soft yet sturdy enough to hold the juicy meat and cheese mixture. If you can’t find one, you can substitute it with:
- Sub Rolls – Similar texture
- Hoagie Rolls – Slightly firmer but works well
- Brioche Buns – A softer, slightly sweet alternative
Variations of Chopped Cheese
Want to spice things up? Try these variations:
- Spicy Chopped Cheese – Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.
- Loaded Chopped Cheese – Pile on bacon, mushrooms, or pickles.
- Vegetarian Chopped Cheese – Use plant-based ground meat and dairy-free cheese.
Best Toppings and Condiments
While the classic chopped cheese includes lettuce, tomato, mayo, ketchup, and mustard, here are some unique toppings you can try:
- Pickles – Adds tanginess
- Sautéed Mushrooms – For extra umami
- Fried Egg – A delicious twist
FAQs about Chopped Cheese Recipe
What is a chopped cheese?
A chopped cheese, also known as a “chop cheese,” is a type of sandwich that originated in New York City. It is made with ground beef, onions, and melted cheese served on a hoagie roll, often accompanied by condiments such as lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise.
What kind of cheese is used in a chopped cheese?
The traditional cheese used in a chopped cheese sandwich is American cheese, known for its excellent melting qualities. However, you can substitute with other types of cheese like cheddar or provolone based on your taste preferences.
Can I make a chopped cheese sandwich at home?
Absolutely! Making a chopped cheese sandwich at home is straightforward. You need ground beef, onions, your choice of cheese, and a hoagie roll. Cook the beef with onions until browned, add cheese until melted, and assemble the sandwich with your favorite toppings.
What are some common variations of chopped cheese?
While the basic chopped cheese remains popular, variations might include using different types of meat such as turkey or chicken, adding unique sauces like hot sauce or a spicy mayo, or incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers for added flavor and crunch.
Is chopped cheese healthy?
A chopped cheese sandwich can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. For a healthier version, consider using lean meat, low-fat cheese, whole-grain rolls, and including more vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes.
Where can I find the best chopped cheese in NYC?
Chopped cheese sandwiches are widely available at bodegas and delis across New York City. Each place might have its own take on this local favorite, so exploring different locations can be a delicious adventure.
Final Thoughts
Making chopped cheese at home is easy, delicious, and satisfying. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a creative twist, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite.
