Description
The New York Chopped Cheese Sandwich is a beloved classic bodega-style sandwich featuring seasoned ground beef sautéed with onions, melted American cheese, and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, all served inside a toasted hero roll. This hearty and flavorful sandwich is quick to prepare, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner that captures the authentic taste of New York City street food.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 8 slices American cheese
- 4 hero rolls or hoagie buns
Toppings
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Dill pickle slices
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced onions to the hot oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become translucent, releasing their sweetness.
- Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, breaking the meat apart, until it is fully browned.
- Chop the Meat: Use a spatula to chop the browned beef into fine crumbles to mimic the classic chopped texture of the sandwich.
- Add Cheese: Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and place two slices of American cheese on each. Let the cheese melt fully over the beef, then gently mix it in to combine the flavors.
- Toast the Rolls: Lightly toast the hero rolls to add a slight crisp and warmth, enhancing the sandwich’s texture.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread mayonnaise and ketchup inside each toasted roll. Fill each with the cheesy chopped beef mixture, then top with shredded iceberg lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and dill pickle slices for freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest and most flavorful sandwich.
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick if desired.
- Serve with fries or potato chips for a classic New York bodega experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
