Description
The Chopped Cheese is a legendary NYC street food classic. Made with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, all piled into a toasted roll, it’s the ultimate comfort sandwich. Whether for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 6 hoagie or bolillo rolls
- 12 slices American cheese
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Shredded iceberg lettuce (for serving)
- Tomato slices (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef:
Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-low heat. Add the ground beef and cook slowly, stirring and breaking it into crumbles. Cook for 7–8 minutes until most of the fat renders but some meat is still pink. - Add onions, garlic, and seasoning:
Increase the heat to medium and add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove the mixture from heat. - Toast the rolls:
Slice the hoagie rolls in half and toast them on a griddle or skillet over medium heat until golden brown. - Combine beef and cheese:
Portion about 1/6 of the beef mixture onto the griddle over medium-low heat. Top with two slices of American cheese and let it melt. Chop the cheese into the beef with a spatula for an authentic texture. - Assemble the sandwiches:
Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise on one side of a toasted roll. Place the roll toasted side down on the beef mixture. Let it sit for 30 seconds before flipping with a spatula. - Add toppings and serve:
Open the sandwiches and layer shredded iceberg lettuce and tomato slices. Cut in half and serve immediately.
Notes
- For an authentic NYC flavor, use a metal spatula to chop the beef as it cooks.
- Leftover filling can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat it on a griddle before assembling.
- Feel free to customize with different cheeses or toppings for your twist on the classic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American