Chopped Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Ground beef: Provides the main protein and savory flavor for the sandwich.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked with the beef.

American cheese: Melts perfectly over the beef mixture, adding creaminess and richness.

Hoagie rolls: The vessel for the sandwich, providing a soft yet sturdy base.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the beef and onions.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the dish.

Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the onions and beef, preventing sticking and adding a bit of richness.

To achieve a perfectly melted cheese in your chopped cheese sandwich, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking. This creates steam, which helps the cheese melt evenly and thoroughly over the ground beef mixture.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is another lean alternative that works well in sandwiches.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions.

• onion - Substitute with green onions: Green onions provide a milder taste and a bit of color to the sandwich.

• american cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and offers a sharper flavor.

• american cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a mild flavor and melts smoothly.

• hoagie rolls - Substitute with baguette: A baguette provides a crispy exterior and soft interior, suitable for sandwiches.

• hoagie rolls - Substitute with ciabatta rolls: Ciabatta rolls have a light, airy texture and a slightly chewy crust.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can reduce the need for additional salt.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice to the sandwich.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier option and adds a subtle flavor.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral-flavored oil that works well for cooking.

• Allow the ground beef and onion mixture to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
• Transfer the cooled mixture into an airtight container. Make sure to press down slightly to remove any air pockets.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the chopped cheese within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer.
• If freezing, label the container with the date. The mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• For the hoagie rolls, store them separately in a bread box or airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• When ready to serve, toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or skillet to refresh their texture.
• Assemble the sandwich by filling the toasted rolls with the reheated beef and cheese mixture. Enjoy your delicious chopped cheese sandwich as if it were freshly made!

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the hoagie rolls filled with the beef and cheese mixture in aluminum foil. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the chopped cheese sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep the bread from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy texture, use a skillet. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F. Place the sandwich in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside warm and gooey.

• If you have a panini press, preheat it and place the sandwich inside. Press down gently and heat for about 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted to perfection.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the onions and ground beef mixture.

• Spatula: A tool used to chop and mix the beef and onion mixture as it cooks.

• Knife: Used for chopping the onions.

• Cutting board: A surface for safely chopping the onions.

• Measuring spoon: Used to measure the vegetable oil.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping and toasting the hoagie rolls in the skillet or oven.

• Oven: An alternative to the skillet for toasting the hoagie rolls.

• Plate: For assembling and serving the sandwiches.

• Paper towels: Useful for draining any excess grease from the cooked beef mixture.

Pre-chop onions: Chop the onions ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use pre-sliced cheese: Save time by using pre-sliced American cheese instead of slicing it yourself.

Toast rolls simultaneously: Toast the hoagie rolls in the oven while cooking the ground beef to streamline the process.

Batch cook beef: Cook a larger batch of ground beef and freeze portions for future use.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop onions using a food processor to save prep time.