Description
The Chopped Cheese Sandwich is a classic New York City deli favorite featuring savory ground beef cooked with sautéed onions and bell peppers, chopped together and piled high on toasted sub rolls with melted American cheese. This hearty sandwich combines juicy meat, melted cheese, and toasted bread with optional condiments for a satisfying and comforting meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
Cheese and Bread
- 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 2 small sub rolls or hero rolls, split
Condiments (Optional)
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Ketchup
- Hot sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Onions and Bell Peppers: Push the ground beef to one side of the skillet. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the other side. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Combine and Chop: Mix the cooked onions and bell peppers with the ground beef. Using the edge of the spatula or a flat utensil, chop and mix everything together in the skillet. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Toast the Rolls: Meanwhile, toast the split rolls in a toaster oven or under the broiler until lightly golden.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: If desired, spread mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, or hot sauce on the toasted rolls. Divide the chopped beef mixture evenly among the rolls.
- Add Cheese: Place 2 slices of American cheese on top of each sandwich while the beef mixture is still hot, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches and serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- You can substitute American cheese with cheddar or provolone for a different flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with additional spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra taste.
- Use leaner ground beef if preferred for a healthier option.
- Optional condiments enhance the sandwich but can be omitted for simplicity.
- Toasting the rolls adds texture and prevents sogginess from the beef mixture.
- Leftover beef mixture can be refrigerated and used within 2 days.
