If you’re in the mood for a truly satisfying and hearty sandwich, the Philly cheesesteak is a top choice. This classic American sandwich, hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a culinary icon.
Comprising thinly sliced beef steak, melted cheese, and optional additions like onions, peppers, and mushrooms, all nestled in a long, soft roll, the Philly cheesesteak is beloved for its ease of preparation, customizability, and robust flavor. What elevates a Philly cheesesteak from good to great, however, is the sauce.
A diverse array of sauces can significantly enhance the sandwich’s flavor, catering to a wide range of tastes. Whether your preference leans towards classic, cheesy, creamy, spicy, or tangy flavors, there’s a perfect sauce for your cheesesteak.
In this article, we look into the 14 best sauces that pair wonderfully with a Philly cheesesteak, ranging from traditional to fiery options. Additionally, we’ll share tips and recipes for crafting these sauces at home, as well as advice on selecting the best store-bought varieties.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the sandwich. For some delightful side dishes that complement the flavors of your Philly cheesesteak, turning your meal into a feast, check this information.
So, prepare to indulge in these incredible sauces and discover the perfect accompaniments for your next Philly cheesesteak adventure.
1. Classic Cheese Whiz
Beyond its role as a Philly cheesesteak essential, classic cheese whiz offers a delightful experience. This blend of processed cheese, milk, butter, and seasonings creates a sauce with a creamy texture and a subtly cheesy taste.
It’s not just for sandwiches; Cheese Whiz shines as a topping for nachos and as a base for various dips. For the home chefs, whipping up a batch of homemade Cheese Whiz using cheddar, evaporated milk, cornstarch, and spices is a rewarding endeavor.
2. Provolone Cheese Sauce
Elevating everyday meals, provolone cheese sauce is a culinary delight. Its primary ingredient, provolone cheese, is celebrated for its sharp and smoky notes. When combined with flour, butter, and milk, it transforms into a thick sauce ideal for enhancing pasta, sandwiches, and pizzas.
This sauce pairs exquisitely with meats such as ham, salami, or pepperoni, adding a sophisticated twist to classic dishes.
3. American Cheese Sauce
American cheese sauce is the epitome of comfort food. Crafted from mild and slightly tangy American cheese, along with milk and butter, it achieves a velvety consistency.
It is incredibly adaptable, enhancing everything from macaroni and cheese to burgers and hot dogs, and it’s even a key component in sumptuous cheeseburger soup.
4. Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce stands out as a versatile and flavorful option. Infused with garlic, onion, basil, oregano, and a variety of herbs, this tomato-based sauce is a staple for a range of dishes. Whether it’s accompanying pasta, pizza, meatballs, chicken, or seafood, Marinara Sauce adds a rich, herby flavor.
It also serves as an excellent dip for breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or calamari, pleasing crowds with its versatility.
5. Spicy Buffalo Sauce
It is all about bringing zest and heat to your meals. A fiery mix of cayenne pepper, vinegar, butter, and Worcestershire sauce, it’s renowned for its role in creating mouth-watering buffalo wings.
Spicy buffalo sauce doesn’t stop there; it’s equally effective in transforming dishes like buffalo chicken dip, pizza, or salad with its spicy kick.
6. Garlic Aioli
Garlic aioli, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Spain and France, is a garlic-infused, mayonnaise-based sauce. The addition of lemon juice and salt enhances its flavor.
It’s an excellent choice for adding a zesty touch to sandwiches, burgers, fries, and roasted veggies. The sauce’s adaptability is evident as it can be combined with mustard, herbs, or cheese, creating diverse and exciting flavor combinations.
7. Ranch Dressing
It is a beloved American classic, known for its creamy texture and herb-infused taste. A blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and a mix of herbs like parsley, dill, garlic, and onion, it’s a versatile dressing that complements a wide array of salads, including green salads, coleslaw, and potato salad.
Its utility extends beyond salads, serving as a favored dip for chips, pretzels, and veggies, showcasing its wide-ranging culinary applications.
8. Sriracha Mayo
Blending the smoothness of mayonnaise with the spicy kick of Thai-origin sriracha, sriracha mayo is a condiment that brings excitement to any dish. Its spicy and tangy profile is a hit in Asian fusion cuisine, perfect for adding a zesty twist to sushi, poke bowls, or bao buns.
Beyond Asian dishes, it’s equally impressive with Western staples like burgers, fries, and salads, infusing them with an exhilarating heat and flavor.
9. Honey Mustard
Combining the sweetness of honey with the zing of mustard, honey mustard sauce is a delightful mix that enhances a variety of dishes. Whether it’s yellow or Dijon mustard, this sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.
Ideal for sandwiches, chicken, or pork, it also serves as a tasty salad dressing or a dip for snacks like pretzels, chicken nuggets, or veggies.
10. Horseradish Sauce
With its robust and creamy texture, horseradish sauce is made from the potent horseradish root. This sauce is a traditional favorite for pairing with meats such as roast beef, steak, and corned beef.
Its strong, spicy flavor also makes it a great addition to sandwiches, salads, or seafood dishes, adding a lively burst of heat and zest.
11. BBQ Sauce
A rich blend of tomato sauce, vinegar, sugar, and spices like paprika, garlic, and onion, bbq sauce is a medley of smoky and savory flavors. It’s essential for barbecuing, smoking, or roasting meats like ribs, chicken, or brisket.
It also enhances the taste of burgers, pizza, and fries, contributing a complex and flavorful depth to these dishes.
12. Chimichurri
Chimichurri sauce, with its lively and herb-filled flavor, combines parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Originating from Argentina, it’s traditionally used with grilled meats such as steak, chorizo, or chicken.
The sauce’s fresh and tangy taste also makes it a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and pasta, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.
13. Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, melds the sweet and umami flavors of soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and sake. This versatile sauce is perfect for glazing and marinating proteins like chicken, beef, or salmon.
It’s also an excellent choice for enhancing stir-fries, noodles, or rice, adding a distinctively sweet and savory dimension.
14. Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Garlic parmesan sauce is a rich and flavorful blend that combines the aromatic allure of garlic with the nutty, savory taste of parmesan cheese. This creamy sauce is a culinary delight, perfect for transforming ordinary dishes into gourmet experiences.
It’s particularly excellent on pasta, as a decadent topping for pizza, or as a luxurious dip for breadsticks and chicken wings. The sauce’s creamy texture and depth of flavor make it a favorite for those who appreciate a sophisticated and indulgent taste profile.
FAQ
Can I use a vegan alternative for the cheese?
Absolutely! There are many vegan cheese options available that can melt and blend well with the steak and veggies. Look for vegan versions of provolone or American cheese for a similar experience.
What’s the best type of bread for Philly cheesesteak?
Traditionally, a long, soft hoagie roll is used. It should be sturdy enough to hold the filling without getting soggy. Some prefer a crustier roll for added texture.
Is there a gluten-free sauce option for this dish?
Yes, many sauces like marinara, garlic aioli, and homemade cheese sauces can be made gluten-free. Always check labels for store-bought sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak with chicken instead of beef?
Definitely! Chicken cheesesteaks are a popular variation. Thinly sliced chicken breast cooked with onions and peppers, topped with cheese, makes a delicious alternative.
Are there any low-calorie sauce options for a healthier version?
For a healthier option, consider sauces like marinara, mustard, or a light homemade aioli. You can also use Greek yogurt as a base for creamy sauces to reduce calories.
What’s the best way to reheat a Philly cheesesteak without drying it out?
The best method is to reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet to trap steam and keep the sandwich moist. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
Final Words
The Philly cheesesteak is a quintessential Philadelphia sandwich, known for its simplicity and flavor. It features thinly sliced beef steak, melted cheese, and often, sautéed onions and peppers.
A defining characteristic of the Philly cheesesteak is the wide array of sauces that can accompany it. From classic flavors to those with a spicy kick, there’s a sauce to suit every taste preference.
This article delves into 14 different sauces that pair well with a Philly cheesesteak. From the creamy richness of cheese whiz to the zesty heat of sriracha mayo, these sauces elevate the sandwich to new heights.
Whether you prefer traditional flavors or seek something more adventurous, these sauces are sure to enhance your Philly cheesesteak experience. Experiment with different combinations and discover a new twist on this beloved classic.