Chopped Cheese Sandwiches, also known as “chopped cheese” or “chop cheese,” are a popular and flavorful sandwich originating from New York City. This sandwich features a savory blend of ground beef, onions, peppers, and melted cheese, all served on a soft hero or hoagie roll. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that is loved by many for its bold flavors and comforting appeal. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make your own delicious Chopped Cheese Sandwiches at home, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients for Chopped Cheese Sandwiches
To make Chopped Cheese Sandwiches, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hero or hoagie rolls
- Olive oil
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, hot sauce
How to Make Chopped Cheese Sandwiches
- Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper, if using. Stir to combine.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Split the hero or hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, without cutting all the way through.
- Place a slice of American cheese on each roll, then divide the ground beef mixture evenly among the rolls, placing it on top of the cheese.
- Close the rolls and press down gently to flatten the sandwiches slightly.
- Cook the Sandwiches:
- Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Press down on the sandwiches with a spatula while cooking to flatten them further and help the cheese melt.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Optional: Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, or hot sauce to your sandwiches for extra flavor.
- Serve the Chopped Cheese Sandwiches hot and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Ground Beef:
Ground beef is the star of this sandwich, providing a hearty and savory base. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option or use regular ground beef for a richer flavor. Cooking the ground beef with onions, peppers, and spices adds depth and complexity to the filling.
Onion and Bell Pepper:
Onions and bell peppers add flavor, texture, and sweetness to the sandwich filling. They are sautéed until soft and caramelized, enhancing the overall taste of the sandwich.
Garlic:
Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the ground beef mixture. It complements the other ingredients and helps to elevate the overall taste of the sandwich.
Cheese:
American cheese is the traditional choice for Chopped Cheese Sandwiches, as it melts easily and has a mild, creamy flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Hero or Hoagie Rolls:
The choice of bread is crucial for this sandwich. Hero or hoagie rolls are soft and sturdy enough to hold the filling without becoming soggy. Toasting the rolls adds a nice crunch and helps to hold the sandwich together.
Optional Toppings:
Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and hot sauce are popular toppings for Chopped Cheese Sandwiches. They add freshness, crunch, and a kick of heat, enhancing the overall eating experience.
Chopped Cheese Sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the bold flavors and comforting goodness of this New York City classic right in your own home!
