What Sauce Goes on a Philly Cheesesteak? Top Sauces Explained.

The Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it’s a beloved dish across the U.S. The right sauce can make it even better, adding flavor and character. Traditional options like Cheez Whiz are known for their creamy texture and high calorie count of 330 kcal per 100g.

But, there are also new sauces popping up, making the choice important for cheesesteak fans. You might want to try provolone cheese sauce or white American cheese sauce. Each offers a unique taste that can change your meal.

This guide will help you understand the best sauces for a cheesesteak. We’ll explore their flavors and how to pick the right one for you.

Key Takeaways

• The right sauce is crucial for enhancing the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak.
• Cheez Whiz remains a classic choice, offering a creamy and tangy flavor.
• Provolone cheese sauce is a popular alternative, providing a sharper taste.
• Modern cheesesteak variations include a range of sauces, reflecting personal preference.
• Choosing the best sauce for cheesesteak can significantly impact your overall experience.

The Classic Philly Cheesesteak Experience

The classic Philly cheesesteak is a favorite among many. It started in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the 1930s. It’s made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, cooked in canola oil for flavor. The meat cooks for 45 to 60 seconds to get just the right brown.

No Philly cheesesteak is complete without cheese. People often choose provolone, white American cheese, or Cheez Whiz. Each cheese adds a unique touch, making the sandwich personal.

To make your cheesesteak even better, toast the hoagie roll first. This adds a nice texture and flavor contrast. If you have leftovers, they can stay fresh in the fridge for two days. Reheat it in a 300°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes or in the microwave for 20 to 60 seconds. Wrap it in a damp paper towel to keep it moist.

What Defines a Traditional Philly Cheesesteak?

A traditional Philly cheesesteak is more than a sandwich. It’s a piece of history and culture. It started with Pat Olivieri in 1930. The key parts are thinly sliced ribeye steak, cheese, and a soft hoagie roll.

The ribeye steak is the heart of the sandwich. It’s tender and flavorful. Other meats like skirt steak or top sirloin can’t match its taste. Cutting the meat thin is key for a good balance of flavors.

The cheese you choose is also crucial. Provolone, white American, or Cheez Whiz are popular. They melt well and add unique tastes. Seasoning the beef with salt and pepper makes it even better.

The hoagie roll is another important part. Amoroso’s footlong roll is the favorite in Philadelphia. It’s strong and holds the filling well. Yellow onions are a must, with some adding hot peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Making a Philly cheesesteak is an art. It’s about using the best ingredients and cooking them right. Chefs use a flattop griddle to cook efficiently, making the sandwich fresh and delicious.

Are Sauces Historically Part of the Original Recipe?

The cheesesteak’s story started in the early 1930s in Philadelphia. Back then, sauces weren’t a big part of it. People loved the mix of ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and cheese on hoagie rolls. They didn’t need extra sauces.

As the 1950s came, vendors started adding sauces to the cheesesteak. Cheez Whiz became a favorite, capturing the essence of the sandwich for many. This change shows how food traditions evolve over time.

Now, you can find everything from classic cheese to gourmet sauces on a cheesesteak. Each sauce brings its own flavor, keeping the cheesesteak a favorite with a rich history.

Popular Sauce Choices for a Philly Cheesesteak

Choosing the right sauce can make a Philly cheesesteak even better. The best sauce depends on what you like and the flavor you want. Let’s look at three top picks.

Provolone Cheese Sauce: The Classic Favorite

Provolone cheese sauce has a sharp, nutty taste that goes great with ribeye steak. It adds a creamy touch without being too much. Many say it’s the perfect mix of tradition and indulgence.

White American Cheese Sauce: A Smooth Alternative

White American cheese sauce is a smooth, creamy choice. It lets the steak and onions take center stage. Its mild taste makes it a favorite for those who love a good texture.

Cheese Whiz: The Philly Staple

Cheese Whiz is a must-mention for cheesesteak sauces. It’s tangy and creamy, loved by many for its savory match with steak. Cheese Whiz adds a special touch, making the meal truly authentic and indulgent.

Ketchup and Hot Sauce: Simple and Popular Add-Ons

Adding ketchup to a Philly cheesesteak brings a sweet touch that goes well with the savory flavors. It’s a favorite among many, adding a comforting twist to the meal. Ketchup is a classic choice, making it easy to customize your sandwich.

Hot sauce, on the other hand, adds a spicy kick that makes the cheesesteak even more exciting. People love trying out different hot sauces to make the dish their own. Whether you like it mild or hot, hot sauce can enhance the flavors of the ribeye and cheese.

These simple condiments show how different tastes can shape our preferences. While some stick to traditional cheese sauce and ribeye, others like to mix it up with ketchup and hot sauce. This freedom to choose toppings shows how cheesesteak enjoyment is always evolving.

Gourmet and Creative Sauce Variations

In the world of cheesesteaks, new gourmet sauces are popping up. They offer exciting flavors that make the dish even better. From zesty to creamy, each sauce adds its own special touch.

Garlic Aioli and Horseradish Sauce for a Zesty Kick

Garlic aioli adds a creamy texture with a strong garlic taste. It makes your cheesesteak richer. Adding horseradish sauce gives it a spicy kick, great for those who like bold flavors.

Peppercorn Ranch and Chipotle Mayo: Modern Twists

Peppercorn ranch brings a tangy, herby flavor. Chipotle mayo adds smokiness and heat. These sauces offer a fresh take on the classic cheesesteak.

Marinara Sauce for the Pizza Cheesesteak Variation

Marinara sauce is perfect for a pizza-like cheesesteak. It balances the cheese and steak with a tomato sauce. This mix of flavors is a delightful twist.

New cheesesteak sauces keep coming, offering a world of flavors. With these gourmet options, you can make a cheesesteak that’s both exciting and true to its roots.

How to Choose the Right Sauce for Your Cheesesteak

Choosing the right cheesesteak sauce is key. Think about the steak’s richness and the cheese type. This helps you pick a sauce that complements the flavors.

For sharp cheeses like provolone or Cooper sharp, a light garlic mayo is perfect. It adds flavor without taking over. If you prefer Cheez Whiz, a spicier sauce can add a nice kick.

Try making a gourmet cheesesteak with unique toppings and sauces. Roasted garlic or cherry pepper mayo can add exciting flavors. The right sauce can make your cheesesteak stand out.

When picking a sauce, aim for a great flavor balance. The right sauce can turn a simple sandwich into a memorable meal.

Sauce for Philly Cheesesteak: Balancing Flavors with Steak and Cheese

The perfect sauce for a cheesesteak makes every bite better. It should match the steak and cheese you choose. A good sauce adds moisture and lets the steak and cheese flavors stand out.

For a great cheesesteak, try a cheese sauce from Cheddar or Provolone. These cheeses melt well and add a savory taste. Adding Worcestershire sauce gives more depth without covering up the steak and cheese.

Toasting the buns with mayonnaise can enhance the flavor. It makes the buns better and helps mix the sauce with the ingredients. As the sauce cooks, it gets thicker, making it easier to cover the steak and cheese.

Feel free to mix and match cheeses to find your favorite. Cheez Whiz and Provolone are a tasty combo. This way, you can make the sauce your own while keeping the cheesesteak’s classic taste.

Making Your Own Philly Cheesesteak Sauce at Home

Creating your own cheesesteak sauce lets you pick the flavors you like. An easy recipe can turn a simple cheesesteak into a special treat. Making your own sauce makes the whole experience better.

Easy Provolone Cheese Sauce Recipe

This simple recipe for provolone cheese sauce is perfect for cheesesteaks. It uses just a few ingredients: melted provolone cheese, milk, and butter. This makes a creamy sauce that makes your dish better. Here’s how to make it:

• In a saucepan, melt 1/2 teaspoon of butter over medium heat.
• Add 1 cup of milk and heat until warm but not boiling.
• Gradually stir in 4 slices of provolone cheese until melted and smooth.
• Season with garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper to taste.

This homemade sauce adds richness and depth to your steak sandwich. It’s a great match for the meat and toppings.

Quick Garlic Mayo for Cheesesteaks

For a burst of flavor, try garlic mayo with your cheesesteaks. This easy sauce recipe makes your meal even better:

• Combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
• Mix in a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
• Spread it generously on your hoagie rolls before assembling your cheesesteak.

This homemade garlic mayo adds a zesty twist to traditional cheesesteaks. It’s a great choice for those who like to customize their meals.

Conclusion

The cheesesteak sauce options show how special the Philly cheesesteak is. From the classic Cheez Whiz to gourmet sauces, each one adds something special. Knowing how sauce affects your sandwich can help you choose better.

Understanding the role of sauce lets you make your cheesesteak just right. Whether you like traditional or new flavors, the right sauce makes a big difference. It can change how much you enjoy your meal.

Learning about the history and nutritional value of sauces can make your cheesesteak even better. It’s about finding a balance between taste and health. This way, you can enjoy your cheesesteak without feeling guilty.

check this recipe for more !