When considering what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak, the answer largely depends on individual taste preferences. However, there are a few key principles and classic choices that can help guide your decision. Cheesesteaks are a beloved sandwich option, combining tender, thinly sliced beef with melted cheese, all served on a soft roll. The addition of the right sauce can enhance the flavor profile and make your meal even more satisfying.
Traditional sauces, such as Cheese Whiz, provolone cheese sauce, and mayonnaise, are staples that highlight the cheesesteak’s simplicity and charm. For those seeking bold flavors, options like Sriracha mayo or BBQ sauce can add excitement. Creative choices, such as truffle mayo or honey mustard, bring an unconventional twist. By understanding your preferences and experimenting with combinations, you can discover your ideal pairing. This article explores traditional, bold, and creative sauces that complement this iconic sandwich, ensuring something for every taste.
Classic Sauces for Cheesesteaks
Cheese Sauce: A Staple
A rich and creamy cheese sauce is often the first answer to what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. Traditional options like melted cheddar or processed cheese sauces, such as Cheez Whiz, deliver a smooth, decadent texture that enhances every bite. The allure of cheese sauce lies in its simplicity and its ability to meld seamlessly with the sandwich’s other components.
- Provides a creamy consistency that pairs well with the beef.
- Adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness, amplifying the sandwich’s indulgence.
- Easily customizable by adjusting seasoning or cheese types, allowing for a personalized touch.
For many, this sauce epitomizes the authentic cheesesteak experience, making it a must-try for purists and newcomers alike. Its widespread popularity ensures that it remains a quintessential choice for any cheesesteak enthusiast.
Mayonnaise-Based Sauces
Mayonnaise offers a creamy base that enhances the cheesesteak’s juiciness without overpowering its flavors. When considering what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak, mayo stands out for its versatility and adaptability. It provides a neutral flavor that can be elevated with herbs, spices, or other ingredients.
Popular variations include:
- Garlic aioli for a subtle, aromatic touch.
- Spicy mayo for a bold, zesty kick.
- Herbed mayonnaise to add complexity and freshness to the flavor profile.
Each variation offers a distinct twist, ensuring there’s a mayo-based option to suit every palate. These sauces are easy to prepare and can be tailored to fit a variety of flavor preferences, making them an excellent choice for any cheesesteak lover.
Ketchup and Mustard
Ketchup and mustard are simple yet effective answers to what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. While often overlooked, these condiments provide balance and enhance the overall flavor of the sandwich. Their tangy and sweet notes act as a counterpoint to the richness of the meat and cheese.
- Ketchup: Delivers a slightly sweet and tangy complement, brightening the sandwich’s profile.
- Mustard: Introduces a sharp, piquant contrast, particularly with spicy or Dijon varieties.
These classic condiments are widely available and require no additional preparation, making them convenient for quick meals. For those who enjoy blending flavors, the combination of ketchup and mustard offers a customizable option that can be adjusted to individual taste preferences. Whether used sparingly or generously, these condiments remain timeless favorites for cheesesteak fans.
Bold and Flavorful Sauce Options
Spicy Buffalo Sauce
For those seeking a bolder flavor, spicy buffalo sauce is an exciting option when exploring what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. This sauce adds heat and tanginess, creating a dynamic taste experience.
- Perfect for those who enjoy spicy foods.
- Adds a zesty kick to the sandwich.
- Pairs well with blue cheese crumbles or ranch dressing.
This option is ideal for adventurous eaters looking to step outside traditional flavors.
Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce is a sweet and smoky answer to what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. It complements the meat’s savory notes while adding depth and complexity.
- Sweet varieties enhance the sandwich’s richness.
- Smoky versions intensify the grilled flavor.
- Tangy barbecue sauces provide a refreshing contrast.
Pairing barbecue sauce with crispy onions or sharp cheddar cheese further enhances the sandwich’s appeal.
Hot Sauce
Hot sauce is another bold option for those wondering what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. It adds a fiery element that enhances the overall flavor without overshadowing the primary ingredients.
Popular hot sauce choices include:
- Sriracha for a touch of sweetness and heat.
- Traditional hot sauces like Tabasco for a vinegar-forward kick.
- Specialty hot sauces for unique flavor profiles.
Hot sauce is a simple way to elevate the sandwich’s intensity.
Unique and Creative Sauce Choices
Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri is a fresh and vibrant answer to what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. This Argentinian sauce blends parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar to create a zesty, herbaceous complement.
- Brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese and meat.
- Perfect for those seeking a lighter, herb-forward option.
Chimichurri adds an unexpected twist that impresses with its bold flavors.
Truffle Aioli
For a gourmet touch, truffle aioli is an intriguing answer to what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. The earthy notes of truffle elevate the sandwich’s flavor, making it feel indulgent and luxurious.
- Introduces an earthy, umami-rich flavor.
- Pairs beautifully with premium beef cuts and artisan bread.
- Ideal for upscale dining experiences.
Truffle aioli transforms the classic cheesesteak into a culinary masterpiece.
Sweet and Spicy Jam
For those who enjoy contrasting flavors, sweet and spicy jam offers a creative answer to what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. Options like jalapeño jelly or bacon jam bring a balance of heat and sweetness.
- Adds complexity with its layered flavors.
- Enhances both the meat’s savoriness and the cheese’s creaminess.
- Works well with additional toppings like arugula or fried onions.
This unique choice is perfect for food enthusiasts looking to experiment with unconventional flavors.
Pesto Sauce
Pesto is an unexpected yet delightful answer to what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak. Its blend of basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil introduces a vibrant and aromatic element.
- Provides a fresh, herbaceous taste.
- Complements the cheesesteak’s richness.
- Works well with mozzarella or provolone cheese.
Pesto adds a Mediterranean flair to this American classic.
Tips for Choosing the Right Sauce
When deciding what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak, there are several factors to consider. Selecting the perfect sauce requires an understanding of your preferences and how they align with the flavors of the sandwich. Here are some tips to guide your decision:
- Balance the Flavors:
- Opt for sauces that complement rather than overpower the beef and cheese. For instance, mild sauces like provolone cheese sauce work well with bold meats.
- Conversely, tangy or spicy sauces like chipotle mayo add vibrancy to a mellow cheesesteak.
- Consider Texture:
- Creamy sauces such as garlic aioli provide a rich mouthfeel, while thinner sauces like vinegar-based BBQ bring a lighter finish.
- A thicker sauce may pair better with toasted bread to avoid sogginess.
- Experiment with Heat Levels:
- If you enjoy a bit of spice, Sriracha or jalapeño-infused mayo are excellent options.
- For those who prefer milder flavors, stick to classic cheese sauces or subtle aiolis.
By carefully weighing these factors, you’ll uncover the best sauce for your cheesesteak. The key lies in experimenting with combinations that amplify the sandwich’s core flavors.
Popular Combinations and Pairings
Finding what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak is easier when you explore tried-and-true combinations. Certain pairings have stood the test of time due to their harmonious flavors:
- Cheese Whiz and Caramelized Onions:
This duo combines creamy and sweet flavors, creating an iconic cheesesteak experience. - Provolone Sauce and Sautéed Mushrooms:
The nutty, savory notes of provolone blend seamlessly with earthy mushrooms. - BBQ Sauce and Crispy Bacon:
Smoky BBQ sauce enhances the richness of bacon, adding depth to every bite. - Chipotle Ranch and Pickled Jalapeños:
This spicy, tangy combination is perfect for those who love heat and bold flavors. - Honey Mustard and Fresh Arugula:
Sweet honey mustard balances the peppery bite of arugula, offering a refreshing twist.
These combinations show how pairing sauces with specific toppings can elevate your cheesesteak. Each pairing highlights unique aspects of the sandwich while keeping the flavors cohesive.
Conclusion
Determining what sauce goes best on a cheesesteak ultimately depends on your preferences and willingness to experiment. From classic Cheese Whiz to bold Sriracha mayo or creative honey mustard, the options are endless. Remember to balance flavors, consider texture, and pair sauces with complementary toppings to craft the perfect bite. Whether you’re a purist or an adventurer, the right sauce can transform your cheesesteak into a culinary masterpiece. So, explore, taste, and savor the journey—your ideal cheesesteak sauce is just a bite away!
FAQs
What Sauce Normally Goes on a Philly Cheesesteak?
Typically, Cheez Whiz is the sauce most closely associated with a Philly cheesesteak. This processed cheese sauce is a Philadelphia staple, offering a creamy and salty flavor that perfectly complements the sandwich’s savory beef and soft roll. Alternatively, some people prefer melted provolone or American cheese, as these options provide a similar richness. Although other sauces can be used, these cheese-based choices are considered the most traditional.
What Are You Supposed to Put on a Philly Cheesesteak?
When preparing a Philly cheesesteak, it’s important to stick to the essentials. The classic version includes thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese (like Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American), and a soft hoagie roll. Many people also add sautéed onions for extra flavor. While some variations incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms, purists often argue that these additions are not part of the traditional recipe.
What Is Philly Sauce Made Of?
The term “Philly sauce” often refers to a creamy cheese sauce, such as Cheez Whiz or a provolone-based sauce. To make a simple version, melt cheese with butter, milk, and a touch of flour to create a velvety texture. Sometimes, seasonings like garlic powder or black pepper are added for extra flavor. This sauce is designed to coat the meat and bread evenly, ensuring every bite is indulgent.
What Is Traditionally on a Philly Cheesesteak?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak includes only a few key ingredients: thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese (commonly Cheez Whiz or provolone), and sautéed onions. These components are served on a soft hoagie roll, allowing the flavors to shine without unnecessary distractions. Additional toppings, like peppers or mushrooms, are sometimes added but are not considered part of the original recipe.
Does a Philly Cheesesteak Have Marinara Sauce?
No, a Philly cheesesteak does not traditionally include marinara sauce. While some variations, such as the “pizza steak,” incorporate marinara, this is not considered authentic to the classic Philly cheesesteak. The traditional version focuses on the interplay of beef, cheese, and onions, with no tomato-based sauce involved.