When it comes to picking the perfect cheese for a roast beef sandwich, there are a few key factors to consider. The cheese should complement the flavor of the roast beef, add creaminess and texture, and melt nicely. Some popular choices include cheddar, Swiss, provolone, blue cheese and cheese spreads.
Cheddar
Cheddar is a versatile cheese that pairs well with many sandwich fillings. For roast beef sandwiches, sharp cheddar provides a perfect balance of flavor. The sharpness stands up to the hearty roast beef while also adding a nice tang. Cheddar melts beautifully, filling the sandwich with stringy, delicious cheese. Extra sharp cheddar or aged cheddar can provide an even stronger flavor if you like a real cheese kick. Cheddar adds great texture and creaminess without overpowering the other flavors. It’s a classic choice for roast beef that always satisfies.
Swiss
Swiss cheese is another excellent option for roast beef sandwiches. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor complements roast beef beautifully. When melted, Swiss has a smooth, creamy texture that perfectly balances the tender beef. The signature holes in Swiss allow it to melt evenly throughout the sandwich. Swiss adds a delicious richness without being too overpowering. And its firm texture holds up well when layered onto sandwiches, unlike softer cheeses that can get lost. For roast beef lovers who want a touch of sweetness, Swiss is the ideal pick.
Provolone
Provolone is an Italian cheese that shines on roast beef sandwiches. Aged provolone provides a sharp, tangy flavor with just a hint of smokiness. This pairs wonderfully with juicy roast beef. Provolone has a firm, dense texture when cold but melts into a wonderfully gooey cheese when heated. This creates a mouthwatering layer of cheese in each bite of the sandwich. The creamy, rich flavor blends beautifully with the beef. For an extra layer of flavor, try provolone piccante, an aged variety with a spicy kick. Provolone is the perfect Italian-inspired cheese to take your roast beef sandwich up a notch.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese adds a bold, rich flavor to any sandwich. The sharp, tangy, slightly pungent quality of blue cheese balances beautifully with the umami of roast beef. Spread some crumbled blue cheese on bread before layering on roast beef for an instant flavor boost. The intensity of the cheese mingles with the juicy roast beef in the best way. Or mix some blue cheese crumbles directly into a cheese spread or sauce for a more integrated flavor. The creamy base mellows out the blue cheese while retaining its signature bite. If you like bold flavors, add a little blue cheese to your roast beef sandwich for a satisfying crunch and tang.
Cheese Spreads
Cheese spreads are a simple way to add creamy, cheesy goodness to a roast beef sandwich. Varieties like cheddar, Swiss, blue cheese and more are available in easy spreadable form. You get the flavor of the cheese in a smooth, spreadable consistency. Cheese spreads allow you to evenly distribute cheese on the bread without needing to slice cheese perfectly. And they ensure every bite is packed with cheesy richness. Try a bold cheddar or blue cheese spread, or classic chive cream cheese. Cheese spreads melt nicely when heated while providing texture and creaminess when cold. They make the perfect base to build your roast beef sandwich on.
Conclusion
When selecting the best cheese for roast beef sandwiches, consider flavor, texture, and meltability. Cheddar, Swiss, provolone, and blue cheese all pair wonderfully with roast beef in different ways. For easy cheesy coverage, cheese spreads are a convenient option. The classic combination of tangy cheddar with tender roast beef is hard to beat. But mixing in some Swiss, blue cheese crumbles, or aged provolone can take your sandwich up a notch. Pick a cheese that complements and enhances the beef, and your roast beef sandwich is sure to satisfy.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Cheese
Flavor
Think about cheese flavors that will complement the flavor of the roast beef rather than compete with it. Sharp cheddar, nutty Swiss, tangy provolone, and rich blue cheese all have flavors that mingle nicely with roasted beef.
Texture
Consider the cheese’s texture and melting properties. Soft cheeses like brie can be nice but may become lost in the sandwich. Firm cheeses like aged cheddar and Swiss hold their texture better when layered. Provolone and blue cheese offer creaminess when melted.
Balance
You want the cheese to add flavor and creaminess but not overwhelm the other flavors. A mild, creamy havarti may get lost while an extra sharp cheddar could overpower. Think about balance to ensure all flavors come through.
Pairings
Certain cheeses like cheddar, Swiss and provolone pair remarkably well with beef. Their flavors just work together beautifully. Think about classic pairings that you know you’ll enjoy.
Meltability
For hot sandwiches you’ll want a cheese that melts smoothly like cheddar, Swiss, provolone and Havarti. Hard cheeses like Parmesan won’t melt well. Pick a cheese that will melt into delicious gooey goodness.
Popular Cheeses for Roast Beef Sandwiches
| Cheese | Flavor | Texture | Meltability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheddar | Sharp, nutty, tangy | Firm when cold, gooey when melted | Melts smoothly |
| Swiss | Sweet, nutty, mildly tangy | Firm, slight holes | Melts smoothly into creaminess |
| Provolone | Sharp, tangy, smoky | Firm, dense | Melts into rich creaminess |
| Blue Cheese | Strong, tangy, pungent | Crumble when cold, creamy when melted | Maintains crumbles when cold but melts nicely |
Tips for Serving
Pair with Caramelized Onions
For an extra flavor boost, try topping your roast beef sandwich with caramelized onions. The sweet softened onions pair perfectly with the meat and cheese.
Try a Cheese Sauce
Mix cheese like cheddar or blue cheese into a sauce or cheese spread for creamy cheese in every bite.
Toast the Bread
Toasting the bread adds crunch and allows the cheese to melt in better.
Add Cheese Inside and Out
Spread cheese on the bread and also add cheese slices inside for extra cheesy goodness.
Add Some Greens
Balance the richness with some peppery arugula or bitter radicchio leaves.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
A drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze takes the sandwich up a notch.
Don’t Skimp on Cheese
Pile that cheese on! Roast beef can handle lots of cheese.
Melt it Open Faced
For ultimate melted cheesy satisfaction, toast each slice of bread open faced then assemble.
In Conclusion
When making roast beef sandwiches, choose a cheese that adds flavor and texture without overwhelming the beef. Popular choices like cheddar, Swiss, provolone and blue cheese all pair wonderfully with roasted beef. Seek a good balance of flavors in your sandwiches. Cheese spreads provide cheesy creaminess in each bite. And don’t be afraid to load on that cheese! Roast beef can stand up to lots of cheesy richness. With the right cheese choice, you can take your roast beef sandwiches from basic to brilliant.