Chopped cheese sandwich Recipe – American Special
Chopped cheese is a popular New York City deli sandwich known for its flavorful and hearty filling. It’s essentially a cheeseburger sandwich made with chopped ground beef and melted cheese.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time25 min
- Total Time45 min
Chopped cheese sandwich Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend of meat to fat is ideal)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 4 hoagie rolls (or sub rolls)
- Lettuce, shredded (optional)
- Tomato slices (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
- Ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise (optional, for spreading)
- Hot sauce (optional, for added heat)
Prepare Ingredients:
Chop Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.
Prepare Cheese: If using large cheese slices, cut them into smaller pieces to make it easier to melt over the beef.
Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Cook Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Add Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks.
Season and Cook: Season the beef with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
Chop Beef: As the beef cooks, continue chopping it into smaller pieces using your spatula. This gives the sandwich its characteristic “chopped” texture.
Melt the Cheese:
Add Cheese: Once the beef is cooked and chopped, layer the cheese slices or pieces on top of the beef.
Melt Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the cheese to melt over the beef, about 2-3 minutes. If necessary, you can add a splash of water to the pan before covering to create steam and help the cheese melt faster.
Prepare the Rolls:
Toast Rolls (Optional): If you like your rolls toasted, you can lightly butter them and toast them in a separate pan or under the broiler until golden brown.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread Condiments: If desired, spread ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or hot sauce on the inside of the hoagie rolls.
Add Filling: Divide the chopped beef and melted cheese mixture among the rolls.
Add Toppings: Add shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles if using.
Serve:
Cut and Serve: Cut the sandwiches in half if desired and serve immediately.
Tips
Cheese Options: While American cheese is traditional, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or provolone based on your preference.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce or add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture if you prefer a spicier sandwich.
