The signature cheese that goes on a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich is Cheez Whiz. This processed cheese product was invented in the early 1950s and quickly became popular across the United States. When the cheesesteak was invented in Philadelphia around the same time, Cheez Whiz was chosen as the cheese of choice due to its smooth, creamy texture that melts easily. The cheesesteak was popularized by hot dog vendors and has since become globally recognized as a Philadelphia staple. While Cheez Whiz remains the most iconic and popular cheese for cheesesteaks, some variations use different types of cheese today.
The History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the cheesesteak sandwich can be traced back to the early 1930s in South Philadelphia. Hot dog vendor brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri are often credited with inventing the sandwich. According to legend, Pat was making himself a sandwich using chopped steak from the butcher and decided to put it on an Italian roll. The combination became an instant hit with his taxi driver customers. Soon after, Pat partnered up with hot dog vendor Harry to open up a small food stand selling the steak sandwiches.
Originally, the cheese was not part of the sandwich. It wasn’t until the 1950s that a new generation of vendors started adding cheese. Pat’s son Herbert is said to have been one of the first to put cheese on steak sandwiches per customer requests. American and provolone were initially used, but Cheez Whiz eventually became the preferred cheese thanks to its unique gooey, creamy texture.
Popularity of Cheez Whiz
Cheez Whiz was first introduced by Kraft Foods in the early 1950s. The shelf-stable, processed cheese product was revolutionary for its time. Unlike natural cheeses, Cheez Whiz was designed to have a very long shelf life and required no refrigeration. Its smooth, creamy texture that melted easily made it highly popular as a dipping sauce and sandwich topping. When Cheez Whiz hit the market, Philly cheesesteak vendors started using it and it quickly became the standard cheese for the sandwich.
Part of the appeal was economic. Cheez Whiz was relatively inexpensive, especially compared to imported Italian cheeses like provolone. The cheese sauce was easy to store at room temperature in hot food carts and melted into a consistent, creamy texture. These practical reasons helped cement Cheez Whiz as the go-to cheese for cheesesteaks in Philadelphia.
Traditional Preparation Methods
Authentic Philly cheesesteak preparation calls for thinly sliced ribeye beef seasoned with just salt and pepper and cooked quickly on a flattop grill. The cheesesteak is made by scooping the steak and whizzing on Cheez Whiz before serving on a fresh Italian hoagie roll.
High quality, fresh ingredients are essential. The bread should have a crispy exterior and soft interior to hold up against the hot steak and melting cheese. The sizzling steak is thinly sliced across the grain for tenderness. The Cheez Whiz is whisked into a smooth, liquid state for even coating. Everything comes together in a perfectly orchestrated cheesesteak with each hot bite containing toasted bread, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese.
Modern Variations
While Cheez Whiz on a cheesesteak is still considered traditional in Philadelphia, some variations have evolved using different cheeses. Options include:
Provolone Cheese
Aged provolone is a popular Italian cheese that can be used as an alternative to Cheez Whiz. Provolone has a sharper, tangy flavor compared to the milder processed cheese. It still melts nicely into the sandwich. Provolone adds more complexity but the flavor profile is less creamy.
American Cheese
American cheese is sometimes used as a replacement for Cheez Whiz. American cheese is another processed cheese product designed to melt smoothly. It offers a milder, less tangy flavor than aged provolone. American cheese will melt easily into the steak on a cheesesteak.
Cheddar Cheese
Some vendors use sharp cheddar cheese on their cheesesteaks. Cheddar adds great flavor, but the texture is a bit firmer and doesn’t melt as smoothly as Cheez Whiz. Still, cheddar cheese can make for an excellent cheesesteak.
Mozzarella Cheese
Fresh mozzarella is soft with a mild milky flavor, making it suitable for cheesesteaks. The taste is not as sharp as provolone. Buffala mozzarella is excellent quality. The soft fresh mozz melts nicely into the sandwich.
Whiz Wit
“Whiz Wit” is lingo ordering a cheesesteak as the traditional style with Cheez Whiz and fried onions. The onions add a savory crunch and even more flavor to balance the rich cheese. Whiz Wit is a favorite way to enjoy a classic Philly cheesesteak.
Key Characteristics
What makes the perfect Philly cheesesteak? Here are some key characteristics to savor in each bite:
Thinly Sliced Ribeye Steak
High quality ribeye steak is thinly sliced across the grain for tenderness. This cut has great marbling for full flavor.
Caramelized Onions
Cook the onions low and slow to achieve the perfect caramelized flavor.
Oozing Cheese
The ideal cheese melts smoothly into the steak for a creamy, decadent texture.
Crisp Italian Bread
A fresh, sliced Italian hoagie roll adds a toasted outer crunch.
Savory Seasoning
Just a dash of salt and pepper is all that’s needed to season the meat.
Hot and Melty
All the ingredients come together while hot and melty for the ideal mouthfeel.
Nutrition Information
A typical Philly cheesesteak is high in calories, fat, and sodium since it contains larger portions of steak, cheese, and bread. Here is the nutrition breakdown for a 9-inch sandwich:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 800 |
| Total Fat | 48g |
| Saturated Fat | 20g |
| Sodium | 1800mg |
| Carbohydrates | 57g |
| Protein | 38g |
As you can see, a 9-inch Philly cheesesteak contains about 800 calories and high amounts of fat and sodium. Most of the fat and calories come from the steak and cheese. Despite the high calorie count, the sandwich does provide a good amount of protein.
Cost of a Philly Cheesesteak
An authentic Philly cheesesteak costs around $6 to $15 depending on the restaurant. Here are some average prices around the US:
| City | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA | $8-$12 |
| New York, NY | $12-$15 |
| Chicago, IL | $9-$14 |
| Houston, TX | $8-$13 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $10-$15 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $8-$12 |
As you can see, prices are generally the lowest in Philadelphia where the sandwich originated. In other major cities around the US, you can expect to pay around $10 to $15 for an authentic cheesesteak from a restaurant specializing in the sandwiches. Prices are driven up by high quality ingredients like ribeye steak, specialty cheeses, and fresh rolls.
Popularity of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak has become an iconic sandwich that is synonymous with the city of Philadelphia but loved all around the world. Here are some key stats about the sandwich’s popularity:
- Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, the two most famous cheesesteak spots in Philly, each sell about 250,000 sandwiches per year on average.
- Both tourists and locals alike line up daily at popular cheesesteak restaurants with wait times up to 2 hours on weekends.
- There are over 1,500 cheesesteak establishments around Philadelphia.
- Over 50 locations exist globally in places like Seoul, South Korea and Dublin, Ireland.
- National Cheesesteak Day on March 24th annually celebrates the famous sandwich.
- The Philly cheesesteak appeared on Travel Channel’s list of Top 10 Most Iconic Sandwiches in the U.S.
The cheesesteak inspires incredible passion amongst its fans. The sandwich has become woven into the cultural identity of Philadelphia.
How to Order like a Local
There is an art form to ordering a cheesesteak like a true Philadelphian. Here are some key tips:
Use the Correct Lingo
Say “Whiz Wit” to order it with Cheez Whiz and fried onions. Or try provolone with “Provolone Wit”.
Know the Top Shops
Pat’s, Geno’s, Dalessandro’s, and Jim’s are considered the top destinations.
Bring Cash
Most cheesesteak shops are cash only establishments.
Be Prepared to Wait
Long lines at the popular spots are common.
Specify Lean Cuts
Opt for a “pizza steak” for a leaner sandwich made with sliced sirloin.
Eat It Hot and Fast
Don’t let your cheesesteak sit and get cold! Devour immediately.
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak sandwiches is an American food icon deeply rooted in the heart of Philadelphia. While Cheez Whiz remains the most traditional cheese for the sandwich, some modern versions substitute alternative cheeses like provolone, American, cheddar, or mozzarella. However, nothing truly replicates the classic gooey, creamy, dreamy texture of Whiz. For an authentic cheesesteak experience, go for the classic Cheez Whiz wit fried onions. Just be sure to bring plenty of napkins!