Chopped Cheese is a New York City–style sandwich made with seasoned ground beef “chopped” on a skillet, melted American cheese, and hero rolls, finished with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and a mayo-ketchup-mustard sauce. It’s quick and weeknight-friendly and works well for an easy comfort-food dinner when you want something hearty in under 30 minutes. Unlike a Philly cheesesteak or a basic cheeseburger, this version uses ground beef that’s chopped and melted with American cheese right in the pan, then piled into a crispy roll for classic New York City bodega flavor at home.
Why This Will Be Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
- Authentic Flavor . Recreate the taste of the city that never sleeps in your kitchen with this easy beef recipe .
- Customizable . Make it just the way you like it with your favorite toppings.
- Quick and Delicious . A main course ready in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal anytime.
Chopped Cheese is a New York City tradition you can now savor at home. With its bold flavors and customizable toppings, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or trying this iconic sandwich for the first time, you’re in for a flavorful treat.
What Is A Chopped Cheese?
Chopped Cheese, also known as a “chop cheese” or “chopped cheese sandwich,” originated in Harlem, New York, in the early 2000s. It quickly became a staple of bodegas and delis throughout the city.
This flavorful sandwich combines elements of a cheeseburger and a Philly cheesesteak, making it a true NYC classic.
What Is The Difference Between Chopped Cheese And Cheesesteak?
while both chopped cheese and cheesesteak sandwiches feature meat and cheese in a roll, they have distinct regional origins, toppings, protein choices, cheese variations, and flavor profiles.
Each sandwich is widely celebrated where they were originated and all over the country. They both definitely have a unique place in American street food culture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef - Ground beef is cooked and “chopped” on the griddle, creating juicy, flavorful crumbles that soak up the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon salt - Enhances the natural beef flavor and ensures each bite is well-seasoned.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - Adds subtle heat and earthiness, balancing the salt and giving the beef a bit of bite.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Infuses the beef with savory depth and a touch of aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder - Adds sweetness and a gentle onion flavor that blends seamlessly into the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika - Brings a warm, smoky note and enhances the beef’s color.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper - Adds a touch of heat that gives the sandwich a little kick.
- 4 slices American cheese – The creamy, melty component that defines a chopped cheese. Creates a gooey, flavorful mixture that holds the filling together.
- 4 hero rolls – The vessel for the sandwich. Soft yet sturdy, hero rolls (or hoagie rolls) hold the juicy beef and melted cheese without falling apart.
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise – Spread onto the rolls for creaminess and moisture.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup - Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese.
- 1 tablespoon mustard - Brings a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that enhances the savory elements and adds depth to the sauce mix.
- Lettuce - Provides freshness and crunch, balancing the warm, melty filling with a crisp texture.
- Tomato - Adds juiciness and a touch of acidity that brightens the sandwich and complements the savory beef.
- Onion - Offers sharpness and crunch, giving the sandwich another layer of texture and flavor contrast.
- Pickles - Bring tanginess and a salty bite that cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef.
- Hot sauce - Optional but highly recommended. It adds a spicy kick and an extra layer of flavor.
How To Make Chopped Cheese
- Season and Cook the Beef . In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Melt the Cheese . While the beef is cooking, place the slices of American cheese over the cooked beef. Cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or until the cheese is melted.
- Prepare the Sauce . Then, in a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard to create the sauce.
- Toast the Rolls . Split the hoagie or hero rolls in half and lightly toast them in a toaster or on a griddle until they are golden brown.
- Assemble the Chopped Cheese . Spread a generous amount of the sauce on both sides of the toasted rolls. On the bottom half, layer the shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and onions. Add the cheesy beef mixture on top.
- Optional Toppings . If desired, add pickle slices and a few dashes of hot sauce for extra flavor and heat.
- Serve and Enjoy . Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll. Cut it in half if you prefer, and serve your homemade Chopped Cheese while it’s still hot.
Tips And Tricks
- Grab great cheese . Use a good-quality American cheese for that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Top it with your favorites . Feel free to customize your Chopped Cheese with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, sautéed bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Add a kick of spice . The hot sauce is optional but adds a delightful kick to the sandwich.
- Swap out the bread . If you can’t find hoagie or hero rolls, you can use sub rolls or French bread as a substitute.
Variations
- Chopped Chicken - Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Chopped Cheese - Use plant-based ground meat or crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Double Cheese - Add extra slices of cheese for an even cheesier experience.
What To Serve With Chopped Cheese
Chopped cheese is a flavorful and hearty sandwich that can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with chopped cheese:
- Potato Wedges - Potato wedges are a classic side dish that pairs well with chopped cheese. You can serve them on the side or even add them to the sandwich for extra crunch.
- Onion Rings - Onion rings are another delicious and crunchy option. They complement the savory flavors of the sandwich nicely.
- Coleslaw - Creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing and slightly tangy element to balance the flavors of the sandwich.
- Chips - A side of potato chips or kettle chips can be a simple and satisfying accompaniment.
How Long Do They Last?
A chopped cheese sandwich should be consumed relatively soon after it’s prepared for the best taste and texture. It’s not typically a dish that’s meant for long-term storage.
If you have leftovers and want to save them for later, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The quality may degrade over time, with the bread potentially becoming soggy.
Can You Freeze Them?
While it’s not common to freeze chopped cheese due to the risk of textural changes, you can technically freeze it for longer-term storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight freezer-safe container.
Properly frozen chopped cheese can maintain its safety for 1 to 2 months.
Most NYC bodega chopped cheese sandwiches use American cheese slices. It melts fast and creamy right into the chopped, seasoned ground beef, giving that classic “bodega style” texture. If you’re making a chopped cheese sandwich at home and want the most authentic vibe, go with standard deli-style American. Cheddar or provolone can work, but they melt differently and won’t quite recreate that gooey, unified chopped-cheese mixture.
For a classic NYC bodega chopped cheese, the best ground beef is usually 80/20. It has enough fat to stay juicy and flavorful while you chop and fold it in the skillet and melt in American cheese. If you go too lean (like 90/10), the meat can taste dry and crumbly unless you add extra fat. If you go much fattier, it can turn greasy and soak the roll. To keep your chopped cheese sandwich rich but not soggy, cook 80/20 hot and fast, then drain or blot off excess rendered fat before piling it onto a toasted hero roll.
A chopped cheese sandwich usually turns greasy because the ground beef is too fatty (or you rendered a lot of fat and left it in the pan), the meat wasn’t cooked hot enough to brown properly, or the roll wasn’t toasted, so it soaks up grease instead of staying sturdy. For a classic chopped cheese, 80/20 ground beef is ideal, but you still want to drain or blot off excess rendered fat before you melt in the American cheese and load the hero roll. Toast the inside of the roll, add lettuce/tomato for balance, and go easy on extra mayo-based sauce if you’re already dealing with a greasy pan.
More Of Our Best Sandwich Recipes
- Philly Cheesesteak
- Italian Beef Sandwich
- Pinwheel Sandwiches
- Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
- Patty Melt
- Turkey Pesto Sandwich
If you love this homemade Chopped Cheese Sandwich as much as we do, be sure to share it with your friends on Facebook and Instagram and save it for later by pinning it to your favorite recipe board.
Chopped Cheese | Easy Chopped Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 pound Ground Beef
- ▢ 1 tsp Salt
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- ▢ 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- ▢ 1 tsp Onion Powder
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Paprika
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- ▢ 4 slices American Cheese
- ▢ 4 Hero Rolls
- ▢ 4 tbsp Mayonnaise
- ▢ 2 tbsp Ketchup
- ▢ 1 tbsp Mustard
- ▢ Lettuce , for garnish
- ▢ Tomato , for garnish
- ▢ Onion , for garnish
- ▢ Pickles , for garnish
- ▢ Hot Sauce , for garnish
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Beef . In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Melt the Cheese . While the beef is cooking, place the slices of American cheese over the cooked beef. Cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or until the cheese is melted.
- Prepare the Sauce . Then, in a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard to create the sauce.
- Toast the Rolls . Split the hoagie or hero rolls in half and lightly toast them in a toaster or on a griddle until they are golden brown.
- Assemble the Chopped Cheese . Spread a generous amount of the sauce on both sides of the toasted rolls. On the bottom half, layer the shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and onions. Add the cheesy beef mixture on top.
- Optional Toppings . If desired, add pickle slices and a few dashes of hot sauce for extra flavor and heat.
- Serve and Enjoy . Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll. Cut it in half if you prefer, and serve your homemade Chopped Cheese while it’s still hot.
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Chopped Cheese | Easy Chopped Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 4 slices American Cheese
- 4 Hero Rolls
- 4 tbsp Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Ketchup
- 1 tbsp Mustard
- Lettuce for garnish
- Tomato for garnish
- Onion for garnish
- Pickles for garnish
- Hot Sauce for garnish
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Beef . In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Melt the Cheese . While the beef is cooking, place the slices of American cheese over the cooked beef. Cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or until the cheese is melted.
- Prepare the Sauce . Then, in a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard to create the sauce.
- Toast the Rolls . Split the hoagie or hero rolls in half and lightly toast them in a toaster or on a griddle until they are golden brown.
- Assemble the Chopped Cheese . Spread a generous amount of the sauce on both sides of the toasted rolls. On the bottom half, layer the shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and onions. Add the cheesy beef mixture on top.
- Optional Toppings . If desired, add pickle slices and a few dashes of hot sauce for extra flavor and heat.
- Serve and Enjoy . Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll. Cut it in half if you prefer, and serve your homemade Chopped Cheese while it’s still hot.
Chopped Cheese | Easy Chopped Cheese Sandwich Recipe https://twosleevers.com/chopped-cheese/
If you’re a fan of soul-warming, comforting meals that bring back memories of childhood, you’re in for a treat! Dive into the world of homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup. This classic recipe is all about tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker .
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Effortless . Throw everything in the crockpot, set it, and forget it. Your slow cooker does the work.
- Flavorful . This soup is packed with aromatic herbs and wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable . Adjust the veggies and seasoning to suit your taste.
- Freezer-Friendly . Make a big batch and freeze some for later – your future self will thank you!
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a beloved classic that never goes out of style. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, sick days, or any time you crave a bowl of pure comfort. So, gather your ingredients, let your crockpot work its magic, and savor the warmth and nostalgia of this homemade favorite.
What Are The Best Noodles To Use For Chicken Noodle Soup?
The best noodles to use for chicken noodle soup are those that hold their shape and texture well while absorbing the delicious flavors of the broth. While this recipe calls for egg noodles, here are some popular choices you can also use:
- Egg Noodles - Classic egg noodles are a traditional and favorite choice for chicken noodle soup. They have a mild, neutral flavor and a slightly chewy texture that complements the soup’s richness.
- Wide Egg Noodles - These noodles are similar to standard egg noodles but wider, providing a heartier bite and more surface area to capture the broth.
- Homemade Noodles - If you have the time, consider making your own homemade noodles. They can be thicker or thinner depending on your preference and add a special touch to your soup.
- Orzo - Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and adds a pleasant texture to the soup. It’s a great option if you want something different from traditional noodles.
- Fusill - Spiral-shaped pasta like fusilli can hold onto the broth and ingredients well, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
Why Did My Egg Noodles Turn To Mush In The Crockpot?
Egg noodles are delicate and cook relatively quickly compared to other pasta varieties. If you add them to the crockpot too early or cook them for an extended period, they can become overcooked and turn mushy.
To avoid this, add the noodles during the last 15-30 minutes of cooking.
Can You Put Raw Chicken In Soup And Cook It?
Yes, you can put raw chicken in soup and cook it. In fact, many soup recipes, including chicken noodle soup, start with raw chicken pieces that are simmered in the broth to cook them thoroughly.
The key is to ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F in all chicken recipes to kill any harmful bacteria before serving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts - These are the main protein source in the soup.
- Chicken Broth - It serves as the flavorful liquid base for the soup, providing a rich chicken flavor. It’s used to cook the chicken and vegetables and forms the broth of the soup.
- Carrots - Carrots add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- Celery - Chopped celery contributes a subtle earthy flavor and a pleasant crunch to the soup.
- Onion - Diced onion adds a savory and aromatic quality to the soup. It enhances the overall flavor profile and provides a savory base note.
- Garlic - Minced garlic infuses the soup with a mild garlic flavor. It’s a classic aromatic ingredient that complements the other seasonings.
- Bay Leaves - Bay leaves are used to season the soup as they release their subtle herbal aroma during the slow cooking process.
- Dried Thyme - Thyme is an herb that adds a warm, earthy flavor to the soup. Dried thyme is used to season the broth and give it a savory note.
- Dried Rosemary - Dried rosemary contributes a slightly piney and herbal flavor to the soup. It pairs well with the other herbs and complements the chicken.
- Salt and Pepper - These seasonings are essential for enhancing the overall taste of the soup. They provide a balanced and savory flavor profile.
- Egg Noodles - Egg noodles are the pasta element of the soup. They are added towards the end of the cooking process and cook directly in the broth. They provide heartiness and texture to the soup.
- Parsley - Chopped fresh parsley is used as a garnish for the finished soup. It adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.
How To Make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Prep the Chicken . Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- Add Veggies and Aromatics . Layer the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves on top of the chicken.
- Pour in the Broth . Carefully pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. Make sure everything is submerged in the broth.
- Set and Forget . Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken . Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Add Noodles . About 20-30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. Cover and let them cook until tender.
- Season and Serve . Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
Tips And Tricks
- Extra Flavor . If you have extra time, sauté the onions and garlic in a pan before adding them to the crockpot for a deeper flavor.
- Customize Veggies . Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans.
- Herb Variations . Experiment with your favorite herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill.
- Make It Creamy . Stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy version.
Variations
Crockpot chicken noodle soup is a versatile dish, and there are many ways to add variations and unique flavors to suit your taste. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup - Add some heat to your soup by incorporating diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup - Make it creamy by stirring in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup - Squeeze fresh lemon juice and add lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor. You can also add a few slices of fresh lemon when serving.
And if you’re still looking for some more ideas for soup with flavor, check out our best chicken soup recipes for inspiration.
What To Serve With Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and wholesome dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some options for what to serve with slow cooker soup:
- Crackers or Bread - Serve your soup with saltine crackers, oyster crackers, or a warm slice of crusty bread. These options provide a satisfying crunch and help bulk up the meal.
- Salad - A simple side salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing can add a refreshing contrast to the warm and hearty soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich - A classic combination, a grilled cheese sandwich pairs perfectly with chicken noodle soup. The crispy, cheesy goodness complements the soup’s flavors.
How Long Does It Last?
Store your leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick, comforting meal.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze crockpot chicken noodle soup for later consumption. Freezing soup is a convenient way to have homemade meals on hand for busy days or when you’re not feeling well.
Chicken noodle soup can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 months without a significant loss of quality. While it may still be safe to eat beyond this time, the texture and flavor may begin to degrade.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen soup, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s warmed through.
MoreSlow Cooker Recipes
- Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
- Chicken Stroganoff
- Slow Cooker Chicken Saag
- Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken
- Rotel Dip
- Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup | Slow Cooker Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 4 Chicken Breasts
- ▢ 8 cups Chicken Broth
- ▢ 4 carrots
- ▢ 4 celery stocks
- ▢ 1 onion
- ▢ 3 cloves garlic
- ▢ 2 Bay Leaves
- ▢ 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- ▢ 1 tsp Dried Rosemary
- ▢ 1 tsp Salt
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- ▢ 2 cups Egg Noodles
- ▢ Parsley , for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken . Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- Add Veggies and Aromatics . Layer the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves on top of the chicken.
- Pour in the Broth . Carefully pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. Make sure everything is submerged in the broth.
- Set and Forget . Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken . Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Add Noodles . About 20-30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. Cover and let them cook until tender.
- Season and Serve . Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
