Description

The New York chopped cheese sandwich is an iconic bodega favorite, originating in the heart of Harlem. Made with ground beef, American cheese, sautéed onions, and fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato, this sandwich is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures. Often compared to the Philly cheesesteak, the chopped cheese stands out for its simplicity, affordability, and unique preparation method where the beef and cheese are chopped together. Whether you’re a New Yorker or a foodie looking to try something new, this sandwich is perfect for a quick, hearty meal that packs comfort and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 stick salted butter, divided into 8 tablespoons
4 (6-inch) hoagie rolls, split
1 large yellow onion, peeled and sliced (about 1 ½ cups)
2 pounds ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
8 slices American cheese
⅔ cup mayonnaise
2 medium tomatoes, sliced
2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce

Instructions

Toasting the Rolls:
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place a hoagie roll, cut-side down, into the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining hoagie rolls. Once all are toasted, set aside.
Cooking the Onions:
Return the skillet to medium heat and melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until tender and lightly caramelized. Remove the onions from the skillet with a slotted spoon or tongs and set aside.
Shaping and Cooking the Ground Beef:
Portion the ground beef into long, even log shapes and season with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Working in batches, place the beef logs into the hot skillet and sear for 2 minutes on one side. Flip the beef and flatten it into thin patties using a spatula. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, searing the other side.
Chopping the Beef and Onions:
Add the cooked onions back to the skillet with the beef patties. Using the spatula, chop the beef and onions into smaller pieces, combining them thoroughly.
Melting the Cheese:
Place two slices of American cheese over each portion of chopped beef and onions. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the cheese to melt. Stir to combine the cheese evenly into the mixture.
Assembling the Sandwich:
Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise on the toasted hoagie rolls. Fill each roll with the chopped beef mixture, then top with sliced tomatoes and shredded lettuce. For an authentic touch, wrap the sandwich in deli paper. Serve whole or cut in half.

Notes

For Variations: Try swapping American cheese with cheddar, provolone, or Swiss for a different flavor. You can also experiment with toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or caramelized onions.
Healthier Options: Use lean ground beef or turkey, and substitute light mayo or yogurt-based sauces to make the sandwich lighter.
Serving Tip: For the best experience, wrap the sandwich in deli paper and let it sit for a minute before eating to allow the flavors to meld together.