Homemade Chopped Cheese Sandwich Recipe: A New York Classic

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a savory, perfectly balanced sandwich that captures the essence of New York City street food. The chopped cheese sandwich is a local favorite, beloved for its hearty flavors and straightforward preparation. Whether you’re a native New Yorker or a curious food enthusiast, mastering this recipe at home promises a satisfying culinary experience without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaway

Learn to recreate the iconic New York chopped cheese sandwich in your own kitchen, elevating your homemade meals with authentic street food flavors.

Ingredients for Homemade Chopped Cheese

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need to make your own chopped cheese sandwiches:

Ingredient	Quantity
Water (warm)	302 grams
Instant yeast	8 grams
Granulated sugar	33 grams
Bread flour	600 grams
Fine sea salt	14 grams
Unsalted butter	56 grams
Ground beef (high fat %)	As needed
Sweet onion (sliced)	As needed
Serrano chili (sliced)	As needed
American cheese	As needed
Swiss cheese	Optional, as needed
Tomatoes (sliced)	As needed
Iceberg lettuce (thinly sliced)	As needed
Hero rolls (homemade or store-bought)	As needed
Mayo	1 cup (240 grams)
Hot sauce	3 tablespoons (38 grams)
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon (14 grams)
Ketchup	As needed
Salt and pepper	To taste

Instructions for Making Homemade Chopped Cheese

1. Prepare the Bread

Start by mixing warm water with instant yeast and granulated sugar until dissolved. Add this mixture to bread flour and fine sea salt in a stand mixer, or mix by hand until a smooth dough forms.
Incorporate softened unsalted butter into the dough until fully combined. Let the dough rise in a greased bowl until doubled in size.

2. Shape and Bake the Rolls

After the dough rises, divide it into balls and let them rest. Roll each ball into a rectangle, roll tightly into logs, and proof until slightly puffy.
Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F until golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack.

3. Prepare the Sandwich Fillings

For the sauce, mix mayo with hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and set aside.
Split and lightly toast hero rolls. Saute sliced onions and serrano chili until softened and charred. Remove and set aside.
Cook ground beef on a hot flat top until crispy. Season with salt and pepper and chop finely using a spatula.

4. Assemble the Chopped Cheese Sandwich

Layer cooked beef over the sauteed onions and chili on the flat top. Add a touch of finely chopped raw garlic and mix briefly.
Top with American cheese slices (and optionally Swiss cheese). Fold until melted and combine with the beef mixture.
Spread the prepared sauce on toasted hero rolls. Add the cheesy beef mixture, sliced tomatoes, and iceberg lettuce. Wrap tightly in sandwich paper for serving.

Tips for Authenticity and Variation

Bread Consistency: Achieve the perfect hero roll texture by ensuring proper proofing and baking. Homemade rolls enhance the sandwich’s authenticity.
Cheese Debate: While American cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with additional cheeses like Swiss or cheddar for added flavor.
Saute Technique: Mimic the bodega style by crisping the ground beef and vegetables separately before combining on the flat top.
Flavor Enhancements: Adjust the spice level with more or less hot sauce and serrano chili to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Making your own chopped cheese sandwich at home is not just about replicating a New York City classic—it’s about creating a flavorful, budget-friendly meal that satisfies. By following these steps, you can enjoy the essence of street food culture right in your kitchen. Embrace the process, experiment with flavors, and savor every bite of your homemade chopped cheese.

Now, wrap up your sandwich, take a bite, and let the rich, savory flavors transport you to the bustling streets of NYC!