The traditional cheeses used for a Philly cheesesteak are primarily provolone cheese and Cheez Whiz , with American cheese also being a popular option.
- Provolone is often favored for its sharp, salty flavor that complements the rich beef well. It is typically sliced thin and melted both into the steak mixture and on top of the sandwich for that gooey cheese pull
- Cheez Whiz is a creamy, shelf-stable cheese product that many consider classic for cheesesteaks. Some people like to combine provolone and Cheez Whiz for texture and flavor contrast
- American cheese is also used, especially for its smooth melting quality and mild flavor, sometimes mixed with sharp cheddar to create a cheese sauce for the sandwich
Other cheeses that can be used, though less traditional, include sharp cheddar, muenster, Cooper Sharp, and even blue cheese for a twist, but provolone and Cheez Whiz remain the iconic choices
. In summary, the best cheeses for a Philly cheesesteak are:
- Provolone (mild to sharp)
- Cheez Whiz
- American cheese (sometimes combined with sharp cheddar)
These cheeses melt well and balance the flavors of the thinly sliced ribeye and sautéed onions typical of the sandwich
