This mouthwatering chopped cheese sandwich is a classic American dish that is bursting with flavors. Ground beef is cooked with onions and spices, topped with melted cheese, and served on a warm hoagie roll. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for serving (optional)
Directions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up using a wooden spoon.
- Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
- Season the beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Place the slices of American cheese on top of the beef and cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt, about 2 minutes.
- While the cheese is melting, split the hoagie rolls and toast them in a toaster or under the broiler until lightly golden.
- Remove the skillet from heat and assemble the sandwiches.
- Place a generous amount of the beef mixture on each roll and top with lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired.
- Serve the chopped cheese sandwiches hot and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
The chopped cheese sandwich originated in Harlem, New York City and gained popularity as a staple street food.
Originally made with ground beef, American cheese, and chopped onions, the recipe has evolved over time with different variations and additions.
Some people like to add ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise to their chopped cheese sandwiches for extra flavor.
This sandwich is often compared to a cheesesteak due to its melted cheese and meat combination.