The cheesesteak. An iconic sandwich, a culinary cornerstone, a point of passionate debate. Beyond the thinly sliced ribeye and the molten cheese, lies a world of possibilities: the toppings. Choosing the right toppings can elevate a good cheesesteak to legendary status. But with so many options, how do you decide? This guide delves into the best toppings for a cheesesteak, exploring both traditional favorites and innovative additions, helping you craft your perfect bite.
The Foundation: Understanding the Classic Cheesesteak
Before diving into the world of toppings, it’s essential to understand the core elements of a classic cheesesteak. This foundation provides the context for how different toppings interact with the steak and cheese.
The Beef: Ribeye is King
The heart of any cheesesteak is the beef. While variations exist, thinly sliced ribeye is widely considered the gold standard. Its marbling provides richness and tenderness, crucial for a satisfying cheesesteak experience. The way the beef is cooked – typically on a flat-top grill – also impacts the flavor and texture. It should be cooked until browned and slightly crispy on the edges, but still tender enough to melt in your mouth.
The Cheese: A Matter of Preference
The cheese is another key component. The classic choices are provolone, American, and Cheese Whiz. Provolone offers a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a smooth, melty texture. American cheese is known for its creamy, gooey consistency and mild flavor that complements the beef. Cheese Whiz, a processed cheese sauce, is a Philadelphia staple, adding a distinct, almost artificial, but undeniably addictive flavor.
The cheese choice significantly impacts the overall taste profile. Experimenting with different cheeses can be a great way to personalize your cheesesteak.
The Roll: The Unsung Hero
The roll is often overlooked, but it’s arguably as important as the beef and cheese. A good cheesesteak roll should be sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart, yet soft enough to be easily bitten through. A slightly crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior are ideal. Amoroso’s Baking Company is a popular choice in Philadelphia, known for its quality and authenticity.
Traditional Toppings: The Classics for a Reason
These toppings have stood the test of time, becoming synonymous with the cheesesteak experience. They’re the go-to choices for a reason: they complement the beef and cheese perfectly.
Onions: Grilled to Perfection
Grilled onions are perhaps the most ubiquitous cheesesteak topping. They add a touch of sweetness and savory depth, enhancing the richness of the beef. Yellow or white onions are typically used, thinly sliced and cooked on the same flat-top grill as the steak. The onions should be caramelized to a golden-brown color, developing a sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
The key is to ensure the onions are properly cooked, not too raw and not burnt. The perfect grilled onion adds a textural element to the cheesesteak.
Peppers: A Touch of Sweetness and Heat
Peppers, particularly bell peppers, are another popular choice. They add a burst of freshness and a slightly sweet flavor that balances the richness of the beef and cheese. Green bell peppers are the most common, but red, yellow, or orange peppers can also be used for a more colorful and flavorful experience. They are often grilled alongside the onions.
Some people prefer roasted long hots, which offer a more significant kick of heat. The choice depends on your preference for spice.
Mushrooms: Earthy and Savory
Mushrooms add an earthy and savory dimension to the cheesesteak. Sliced mushrooms, typically white button or cremini, are sautéed or grilled until tender and slightly browned. They absorb the flavors of the beef and cheese, adding a depth of umami to the sandwich.
The key to good mushroom topping is to avoid overcrowding the grill, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Cheesesteak Horizons
While the traditional toppings are undeniably delicious, there’s a whole world of possibilities to explore. These toppings offer unique flavor combinations and textures that can elevate your cheesesteak to new heights.
Hot Peppers: Adding Some Heat
For those who like a spicy kick, hot peppers are an excellent addition. Options range from mild banana peppers to fiery jalapeños. Pickled jalapeños offer a tangy and slightly sweet heat, while fresh jalapeños provide a more intense and vibrant flavor. Roasted long hots, as mentioned earlier, are another excellent option, offering a smoky and complex heat.
When adding hot peppers, consider your spice tolerance and the overall flavor profile you’re aiming for.
Pizza Sauce: A Cheesesteak-Pizza Hybrid
Adding pizza sauce to a cheesesteak might seem unconventional, but it’s a surprisingly popular combination. The tangy and slightly sweet sauce complements the beef and cheese, creating a flavor reminiscent of a pizza. It’s often referred to as a “Pizza Steak.” The sauce should be of good quality, with a rich tomato flavor and a hint of herbs.
Some variations include adding mozzarella cheese for an even more pizza-like experience.
Lettuce and Tomato: A Fresh Twist
Adding lettuce and tomato to a cheesesteak offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef and cheese. Crisp lettuce and juicy tomato provide a textural element and a burst of freshness. This combination is particularly appealing during warmer months. Shredded lettuce and sliced tomato are the most common preparations.
Some purists may argue that lettuce and tomato don’t belong on a cheesesteak, but it’s ultimately a matter of personal preference.
Spinach: A Healthy (and Delicious) Addition
Sautéed spinach adds a nutritious and flavorful element to the cheesesteak. Spinach provides a slightly earthy and savory flavor that complements the beef and cheese. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals. The spinach should be sautéed until wilted and tender.
Some people prefer to add garlic to the spinach for an extra layer of flavor.
Pickles: A Tangy Contrast
Pickles, particularly dill pickles, offer a tangy and crunchy contrast to the richness of the cheesesteak. The acidity of the pickles cuts through the fat of the beef and cheese, creating a more balanced flavor profile. Sliced dill pickles are the most common preparation.
This topping is not for everyone, but those who enjoy it appreciate the refreshing tang it provides.
Specialty Cheeses: Beyond the Classics
While provolone, American, and Cheese Whiz are the traditional choices, experimenting with other cheeses can be a fun way to personalize your cheesesteak. Sharp cheddar offers a bold and tangy flavor. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick. Gorgonzola provides a creamy and pungent flavor.
Consider the flavor profile of the cheese and how it will interact with the other toppings when making your choice.
Bacon: Adding Smokiness and Crunch
Adding bacon to a cheesesteak is a surefire way to enhance its flavor and texture. Crispy bacon adds a smoky and salty element that complements the beef and cheese perfectly. The bacon should be cooked until crispy and crumbled or chopped into small pieces.
This topping is particularly delicious when paired with other toppings like mushrooms and onions.
Creating Your Perfect Cheesesteak: A Guide to Customization
The best cheesesteak is the one that perfectly satisfies your individual taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and combinations to find your perfect bite.
Consider the Flavor Profile
Think about the overall flavor profile you’re aiming for. Do you want something savory and rich, or something more balanced with a touch of freshness or spice? Choose toppings that complement each other and contribute to your desired flavor profile.
Balance the Textures
Pay attention to the textures of the toppings. A good cheesesteak should have a variety of textures, from the soft beef and cheese to the crunchy onions and peppers. Consider adding toppings that provide contrasting textures to enhance the overall eating experience.
Don’t Overload the Sandwich
While it’s tempting to add every topping imaginable, resist the urge to overload the sandwich. Too many toppings can overwhelm the flavors and make the cheesesteak difficult to eat. Choose a few key toppings that complement each other and enhance the overall flavor.
Experiment and Have Fun
The most important thing is to experiment and have fun! Try different combinations of toppings until you find your perfect cheesesteak. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new.
The Art of Eating a Cheesesteak: Mastering the Technique
Finally, the way you eat a cheesesteak is almost as important as the ingredients themselves.
The Proper Grip
Hold the cheesesteak firmly with both hands, ensuring a secure grip. This will prevent the filling from spilling out.
The First Bite
Take a generous bite, ensuring you get a good mix of beef, cheese, and toppings.
The Appreciation
Savor the flavors and textures, appreciating the craftsmanship and the unique combination of ingredients.
The Enjoyment
Most importantly, enjoy the experience! A cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it’s a culinary tradition and a source of great satisfaction.
The perfect cheesesteak is a personal journey. Experiment, explore, and discover your ideal combination of toppings to create your ultimate cheesesteak experience. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on that delicious adventure.
What is the most traditional cheesesteak topping besides cheese and steak?
While cheese and thinly sliced ribeye are the foundation, the most traditional topping is arguably onions. Whether you prefer them chopped and sautéed or grilled until caramelized, onions add a crucial layer of sweetness and texture that complements the richness of the meat and cheese. They help cut through the fat and provide a satisfying savory element.
Beyond onions, peppers (especially bell peppers) are also frequently considered a traditional addition. They contribute a slightly bitter and vegetal flavor, further balancing the cheesesteak’s richness. However, onions generally take precedence as the foundational non-cheese, non-steak topping.
What are some non-traditional but popular cheesesteak toppings?
For those looking to deviate from the classic, mushrooms are a widely enjoyed non-traditional topping. They bring an earthy, umami flavor that pairs well with both the steak and cheese. Some prefer them sautéed in butter for added richness, while others like them simply grilled.
Another popular, albeit less conventional, choice is hot peppers. These can range from mild banana peppers to fiery jalapeños, offering a spicy kick that contrasts with the savory flavors. Some establishments even offer a “pizza cheesesteak” with marinara sauce, a far cry from the traditional recipe.
What type of onions are best for a cheesesteak?
The type of onion is a matter of personal preference, but yellow onions are often considered the best choice for cheesesteaks. They have a good balance of sweetness and sharpness, and they caramelize nicely when grilled or sautéed. Their flavor profile complements the beef and cheese without being overpowering.
White onions are another viable option, offering a slightly sharper taste than yellow onions. Red onions can be used as well, but their flavor is more pungent and may clash with the other ingredients. Ultimately, the key is to cook the onions properly until they are tender and slightly sweet, regardless of the variety.
What is “wit or witout” in relation to cheesesteaks?
“Wit or witout” is a shorthand way of asking whether you want onions on your cheesesteak. “Wit” means “with” onions, while “witout” means “without” onions. This is a common phrase used in Philadelphia cheesesteak shops and is essential lingo for ordering like a local.
Mastering this phrase is a rite of passage for any cheesesteak enthusiast. It’s a simple yet effective way to communicate your onion preference and avoid any confusion when ordering your sandwich. Knowing “wit or witout” will ensure you get your cheesesteak exactly the way you want it.
Does the cheese type affect which toppings are best?
Yes, the cheese type can influence which toppings are most compatible with your cheesesteak. For instance, a milder cheese like provolone allows other toppings, such as mushrooms or peppers, to shine through without being overpowered. A sharper cheese, like sharp provolone or Cheez Whiz, might benefit from more straightforward toppings like onions to balance its intensity.
Ultimately, the best approach is to consider the overall flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you prefer a cheesesteak with a more subtle and nuanced taste, opt for a milder cheese and experiment with a wider range of toppings. If you prefer a bold and assertive cheesesteak, a sharper cheese and simpler toppings might be the better choice.
Are there any toppings that should be avoided on a cheesesteak?
While taste is subjective, some toppings are generally considered less suitable for a cheesesteak due to their flavor profiles or textures. Lettuce and tomato, for example, are rarely seen on traditional cheesesteaks, as their watery consistency can make the bun soggy and detract from the overall experience. Similarly, raw onions can be too harsh and overpowering.
Overly sweet or acidic toppings should also be approached with caution. Pickles, relish, or excessively sugary sauces can clash with the savory flavors of the steak and cheese. The goal is to complement the main ingredients, not to mask them with competing tastes.
How should toppings be prepared for a cheesesteak?
The preparation of toppings is crucial for achieving the best possible cheesesteak. Onions and peppers, for example, should be cooked until tender and slightly caramelized, as this process brings out their sweetness and reduces their sharpness. This ensures they complement the other ingredients rather than overpowering them.
Mushrooms should also be cooked to remove excess moisture and concentrate their flavor. Sauteing them in butter or grilling them adds another layer of richness. Raw toppings, such as lettuce or tomato (if used), should be thinly sliced and carefully dried to prevent the bun from becoming soggy. Proper preparation ensures that each topping contributes positively to the overall texture and taste of the cheesesteak.