What is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak? This iconic sandwich is more than just bread, meat, and cheese. The Philly cheesesteak has become a staple of American cuisine, originating in Philadelphia in the early 20th century and continuing to captivate taste buds across the nation. Yet, despite its seemingly simple ingredients, there’s an art to making a truly great Philly cheesesteak. But what exactly is the secret?
The answer to what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak lies in a few essential factors: the right bread, the best cut of meat, the ideal cheese, and how you bring it all together. Whether you’re a purist or someone who likes to experiment with new ingredients, understanding what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak is key to perfecting this classic sandwich.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into every element of the Philly cheesesteak, explore expert techniques, and reveal the secrets that will help you create the best version of this delicious sandwich.
The Essential Ingredients of a Philly Cheesesteak
To truly understand what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak, we first need to break down the basic components that make up this dish. Every element plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture, and it’s important to get each one right.
The foundation of what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak includes:
- The bread
- The meat
- The cheese
- The toppings
Let’s explore these ingredients in detail.
1. The Bread: The Foundation of a Great Cheesesteak
One of the first keys to answering what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak lies in the bread. The roll must be soft, chewy, and durable enough to hold the juicy meat and melted cheese without falling apart. Traditionally, Amoroso rolls are used in Philadelphia for their unique texture, but any high-quality hoagie roll can work as long as it’s fresh and sturdy.
The bread should be slightly toasted to add a bit of crunch, but still soft inside. This ensures that every bite has the right texture balance, complementing the tender meat and cheese. Some chefs even suggest brushing the inside of the roll with garlic butter for added flavor, but purists might prefer to keep it simple.
If you’re curious about other bread options that can elevate your dishes, check out our guide on making savory bread pudding, which explores how bread plays a vital role in different recipes.
2. The Meat: Ribeye for Tenderness and Flavor
Another important part of what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak is the meat. A truly great cheesesteak depends on the quality and preparation of the steak, and the best option is always thinly sliced ribeye. Ribeye is known for its rich marbling, which melts during cooking to create tender, juicy slices of meat. This cut ensures that the sandwich has the right balance of flavor and texture.
While other cuts like sirloin or flank steak can be used, they lack the tenderness and flavor that ribeye provides. For the perfect Philly cheesesteak, slice the ribeye thinly, which allows it to cook quickly while retaining its juices.
To achieve the best results, cook the steak on a flat-top grill or cast-iron skillet over high heat. The goal is to sear the meat quickly without overcooking it. Overcooking can lead to dry, chewy steak, which is the opposite of what you want in a Philly cheesesteak.
For more tips on cooking different cuts of meat, visit our ultimate guide to ground beef, which offers valuable insights into selecting and preparing meat for various dishes.
3. Cheese: The Big Debate – Cheez Whiz, Provolone, or American?
One of the most debated aspects of what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak is the choice of cheese. The traditional options include Cheez Whiz, provolone, and American cheese. Each type of cheese brings its own flavor and texture to the sandwich, and personal preference often dictates the final choice.
- Cheez Whiz: Considered the “authentic” option by many Philadelphians, Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese sauce that melts smoothly over the meat. It provides a creamy, salty richness that pairs perfectly with the steak.
- Provolone: This mild, slightly tangy cheese is favored by those who prefer a less processed taste. Provolone melts well and adds a subtle creaminess to the sandwich without overpowering the other flavors.
- American Cheese: Known for its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, American cheese is another popular choice. It’s less tangy than provolone and provides a mild, creamy flavor.
Whichever cheese you choose, the key is to melt it thoroughly so that it coats the meat evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Toppings: Onions, Peppers, and More
The final layer of what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak lies in the toppings. Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak is served with sautéed onions, but many people enjoy adding other toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even jalapeños for a bit of spice. The key is to avoid overloading the sandwich—keep the toppings simple and let the meat and cheese shine.
If you choose to add onions, caramelize them until they are golden and sweet. Their sweetness balances out the savory steak and salty cheese, creating the perfect flavor harmony. Mushrooms and peppers can add texture and a touch of earthiness, but remember not to go overboard with the extras.
For those who enjoy experimenting with side dishes, consider pairing your Philly cheesesteak with our ultimate potato salad recipe, which offers a light and tangy contrast to the rich sandwich.
Secrets to the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak
Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, it’s time to delve into the techniques that reveal what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak. The way you cook and assemble the sandwich is just as important as the ingredients themselves.
1. Preparing and Cooking the Meat
One of the main components of what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak is the preparation and cooking of the meat. Start by slicing the ribeye thinly, which allows it to cook quickly and stay tender. Some chefs recommend freezing the steak for 30 minutes before slicing, making it easier to cut into thin, even slices.
When it comes to cooking, a flat-top grill is preferred by many cheesesteak experts because it distributes heat evenly and allows the meat to sear without losing its moisture. Cook the steak quickly over high heat, making sure not to overcook it. Overcooking can dry out the meat and result in a chewy, less flavorful sandwich.
Pro tip: Add the onions to the grill while cooking the steak. This allows the onions to caramelize in the steak’s juices, enhancing both the flavor of the onions and the meat.
2. Toasting the Bread
Another aspect of what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak is how you handle the bread. Lightly toasting the roll can add a pleasant crunch, but you don’t want it to be too crispy. The inside of the roll should remain soft to absorb the juices from the meat and cheese without becoming soggy.
Some cooks like to brush the inside of the roll with garlic butter before toasting, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the sandwich. While this isn’t traditional, it’s a tasty twist that many cheesesteak lovers appreciate.
3. Cheese Application: Melt It Just Right
A critical step in understanding what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak is getting the cheese application right. Whether you’re using Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese, the key is to melt it perfectly. Some people prefer to add the cheese directly to the meat while it’s still on the grill, allowing it to melt into the steak. Others prefer to melt the cheese separately and drizzle it over the meat after assembling the sandwich.
Either method works, as long as the cheese is thoroughly melted and evenly distributed. The goal is for every bite to have a perfect balance of meat, cheese, and toppings.
Pro Tips from Cheesesteak Experts
Even if you have the right ingredients and techniques, mastering what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak requires a few extra tips from the experts. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cheesesteak is perfect:
- Use a flat-top grill: This allows for even cooking and helps retain the meat’s juices, creating a more flavorful sandwich.
- Mix the meat and onions while cooking: By cooking the onions with the meat, you allow the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the sandwich.
- Keep it simple: Don’t overcomplicate the cheesesteak with too many toppings. Stick to the basics—bread, meat, cheese, and onions—and let those ingredients shine.
Elevating Your Cheesesteak: Secret Ingredients
For those who want to take their cheesesteak to the next level, there are a few secret ingredients that can enhance the flavor and answer what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak.
- Garlic Butter: Brushing the inside of the roll with garlic butter before toasting adds an extra layer of richness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the steak while cooking can deepen the flavor and give the meat a savory boost.
- Seasoning Blends: Some chefs recommend using a special blend of herbs and spices to season the steak, giving it a unique flavor profile.
Want to try a variation? Check out our guide on making a delicious chicken Philly cheesesteak for a lighter, yet equally tasty, alternative to the traditional beef version.
Perfect Sides for a Philly Cheesesteak
A great cheesesteak deserves great side dishes. If you’re wondering what to serve alongside your sandwich, here are a few classic options:
- French Fries: The crispy, salty goodness of fries is the perfect complement to the rich, savory flavors of a cheesesteak.
- Pickles: A tangy, crunchy pickle can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty sandwich.
- Coleslaw: The cool, creamy texture of coleslaw offers a nice balance to the warm, gooey cheesesteak.
Pairing your cheesesteak with a refreshing drink like a soda or a cold beer can round out the meal nicely. For those who prefer a heartier side dish, consider our ultimate potato salad recipe, which offers a satisfying, tangy contrast to the richness of the cheesesteak.
How to Order a Cheesesteak Like a Local
If you ever visit Philadelphia, knowing how to order a cheesesteak like a local is essential. Here are some tips to make sure you get your order right:
- “Whiz wit”: This means you want Cheez Whiz with onions on your cheesesteak.
- “Witout”: This means you want your cheesesteak without onions.
- Be specific about your cheese choice—whether you prefer Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese.
FAQs About Philly Cheesesteaks
What is the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?
The best cheese depends on your preference. Cheez Whiz is the traditional choice, but many people prefer provolone or American cheese for their smooth, creamy textures.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak without ribeye?
Yes, but ribeye is the preferred cut because of its tenderness and flavor. Sirloin or flank steak can be used, but they won’t provide the same melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How do I keep the meat tender?
The secret to tender meat is slicing it thinly and cooking it quickly at high heat. Overcooking will make the meat tough, so be sure to monitor the cooking time closely.
What is the difference between a Philly cheesesteak and a steak sandwich?
A Philly cheesesteak traditionally includes thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. A steak sandwich may use different cuts of meat and include additional toppings like lettuce or tomato.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak with chicken?
Absolutely! A chicken Philly cheesesteak is a popular variation that uses thinly sliced chicken breast instead of steak. Check out our chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe for a lighter twist on the classic.
Conclusion: Mastering the Philly Cheesesteak
So, what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak? It’s all about the right ingredients, proper technique, and a few expert tips. By choosing high-quality bread, tender ribeye, and the right cheese, and cooking everything to perfection, you can make a Philly cheesesteak that rivals those found in Philadelphia.
Whether you’re a traditionalist or like to add your own twist to the recipe, understanding what is the secret to a good Philly cheesesteak is the key to mastering this beloved sandwich. For more tips, recipes, and inspiration, explore our full collection of culinary guides at James Recipes.