What Sauce to Put on a Philly Cheesesteak: The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to enjoying an authentic Philly cheesesteak, the details matter. The rich, savory flavor of thinly sliced steak combined with melted cheese, all embraced by a crusty roll, makes this sandwich an American classic. However, adding the right sauce can elevate your cheesesteak from great to absolutely delicious. Let’s dive into how you can enhance your cheesesteak with the perfect sauce, explore classic and alternative options, and customize your sandwich for the ultimate dining experience.

Understanding the Authentic Philly Cheesesteak

A traditional Philly cheesesteak is simplicity perfected. This iconic combination, first popularized by the Olivieri brothers in the 1930s, is served on a long, crusty roll, such as Amoroso rolls. The balance of flavors and textures—tender beef, melted cheese, and crusty bread—defines what makes a Philly cheesesteak unique.

Choosing the Right Cheese Sauce

Cheez Whiz is a popular choice for many purists, lending a rich, creamy texture that coats the steak and bread evenly. This processed cheese sauce is easy to use and has become synonymous with the traditional Philly cheesesteak. For those who want a gooey, completely melted consistency, Cheez Whiz is the way to go.

Provolone cheese is another favorite, offering a milder, slightly sharp flavor that pairs well with the savory steak. For the best results, use provolone that melts smoothly, ensuring every bite is filled with cheesy goodness.

American cheese is also a classic option, known for its meltability and mild, creamy taste. This cheese melts quickly and covers the meat perfectly, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Tip: For an added kick, mix some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce into your melted cheese for extra depth of flavor.

Alternative Sauces for a Philly Cheesesteak

While traditional cheese sauces are beloved, experimenting with alternative sauces can bring new dimensions to your cheesesteak:

• Horseradish Sauce: If you love a bit of heat, horseradish sauce offers a sharp, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the meat and cheese.
• Garlic Mayo: For garlic lovers, a spread of garlic-infused mayo adds creaminess and a burst of flavor.
• Caramelized Onions and Bell Peppers: Though not technically a sauce, these can add moisture and a slightly sweet, savory profile to your sandwich.
• Mushroom Sauce: Sautéed mushrooms with butter and seasoning can be turned into a creamy sauce that pairs wonderfully with the steak.

Building the Perfect Cheesesteak Sandwich

Start by selecting the right bread. Hoagie rolls or Amoroso rolls are ideal because they’re sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without becoming soggy. Preheat the oven and lightly toast the roll to achieve a golden brown, crusty exterior.

Step-by-step process:

1. Cook the steak: Use thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a bit of butter or olive oil and cook the steak until tender.
2. Melt the cheese: Add your choice of cheese directly onto the hot steak to let it melt completely.
3. Assemble: Place the steak and cheese mixture into the toasted roll and add your chosen sauce or toppings, such as onions and bell peppers.
4. Season: Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.

Steak and Cheese Pairing

The type of steak and cheese you choose significantly impacts the taste:

• Ribeye steak is prized for its tenderness and flavor. It pairs exceptionally well with provolone cheese, balancing the savory notes with a hint of sharpness.
• Sirloin is a leaner option but still provides great flavor when cooked correctly.
• American cheese and provolone both melt beautifully over beef, creating a satisfying, gooey texture.

The Role of Bread in a Philly Cheesesteak

Bread is more than just a vessel for the fillings; it’s an essential part of the experience. The ideal roll should be crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. Toasting the roll in a preheated oven or toaster oven ensures that the bread holds up to the juicy steak and melted cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Low-quality cheese sauce: Opt for high-quality cheese or make your own sauce at home to avoid bland results.
• Overcooked steak: Keep an eye on the cooking process to prevent the meat from becoming tough and dry.
• Not preheating the oven: This can result in soggy bread that detracts from the sandwich’s overall texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Always season with salt, pepper, and any other preferred seasonings to enhance the flavors.

Tips for Customizing Your Philly Cheesesteak

• Add heat: Include hot cherry peppers or jalapeños for spice.
• Play with cheeses: Mix provolone, white American, or even cheddar for a unique twist.
• Flavor boosters: Sprinkle garlic powder or add horseradish sauce for an extra punch.
• Leftovers: Use leftover steak or beef mixture for a quick homemade version.

Making Cheesesteaks Ahead of Time

Prepping in advance can save time on busy days. Cook and season the meat ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready, reheat the beef and assemble with cheese and sauce in a preheated oven for a few minutes to warm up the sandwich.

Conclusion

The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved dish for good reason—it’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you stick to traditional cheese sauce like Cheez Whiz, opt for provolone cheese, or experiment with new sauces, the key to an absolutely delicious cheesesteak is choosing ingredients you love and perfecting your technique. With the right combinations, your homemade cheesesteak can rival those served in the heart of Philadelphia.