Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of the chopped cheese sandwich, a beloved street food favorite originating from New York. This hearty sandwich combines seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and fresh toppings, all tucked between two slices of toasted bread. Perfect for lunch or a late-night snack, this recipe is easy to make and will surely satisfy your cravings! Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create this tasty meal.
Ingredients
Ground beef, cheddar cheese, onions, bell peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, sandwich bread, salt, pepper.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 2 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 sandwich) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g fat, 35g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional value is based on one sandwich per person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until soft.
- Stir in the cheese until melted and well combined.
- Toast the sandwich bread in a separate pan until golden brown.
- Spread mayonnaise on the toasted bread.
- Spoon the beef and cheese mixture onto one slice of bread.
- Add fresh lettuce and tomato slices on top.
- Cover with the second slice of bread.
- Press down gently and slice in half before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free version, and whole grain bread can replace white bread for added nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
The chopped cheese sandwich pairs perfectly with crispy french fries, a side salad, or pickles. A refreshing iced tea or soda complements the flavors well.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. It is not recommended to freeze this sandwich, as the texture may suffer.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the beef; it should be juicy.
- Be careful not to burn the bread while toasting.
- Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances flavor.
- Use a good quality cheese for best melting.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet while cooking the beef.
Helpful Tips
- Let the cheese melt completely for maximum flavor.
- Experiment with different toppings like jalapeños or avocado.
- For extra crunch, add fried onions on top.
- Use a griddle for cooking multiple sandwiches at once.
FAQs
What is a chopped cheese sandwich?
A chopped cheese sandwich is a popular New York street food consisting of ground beef, melted cheese, and various toppings served in a sandwich. It’s known for its savory flavor and satisfying texture.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegan cheese to create a delicious vegetarian or vegan chopped cheese sandwich.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is traditional, but American cheese, provolone, or mozzarella can also work well. Choose a cheese that melts nicely for the best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Can I freeze a chopped cheese sandwich?
It is not recommended to freeze a chopped cheese sandwich, as the bread may become soggy and the ingredients may lose their texture when thawed.
Conclusion
The chopped cheese sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that captures the essence of comfort food. With its gooey cheese, seasoned beef, and fresh toppings, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone. Easy to make and versatile, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion!
Chopped Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 slices cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 2 slices sandwich bread
- 1 cup lettuce
- 1 tomato sliced
- Mayonnaise to taste
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until soft.
- Stir in the cheese until melted and well combined.
- Toast the sandwich bread in a separate pan until golden brown.
- Spread mayonnaise on the toasted bread.
- Spoon the beef and cheese mixture onto one slice of bread.
- Add fresh lettuce and tomato slices on top.
- Cover with the second slice of bread.
- Press down gently and slice in half before serving.
Nutrition
