This Easy Famous Chopped Cheese Sandwich is a flavor-packed masterpiece that brings the essence of New York street food to your kitchen. Juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions come together in a soft, toasted roll for a satisfying bite every time. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a quick, indulgent lunch.
Each bite delivers a mouthwatering mix of savory, cheesy goodness with a hint of sweetness from the onions. The crispy edges of the beef contrast beautifully with the gooey cheese, while the soft roll soaks up all the delicious juices. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple, hearty, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients for Easy Famous Chopped Cheese Sandwich
- 2 Tablespoons butter, divided (use unsalted for better control over saltiness)
- 4 hoagie buns (substitute with any preferred bread, such as baguettes or rolls)
- 1 onion, diced (yellow or white onions are ideal for their sweetness)
- 1 pound ground beef (85-90% lean for the best flavor balance)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (can substitute with fresh minced garlic)
- 8 slices American cheese (can use cheddar or any mild cheese as a substitute)
- Mayonnaise, to taste (low-fat options available)
- Ketchup, to taste
- Shredded lettuce, optional topping (iceberg or romaine works well)
- Tomatoes, optional topping (sliced thinly for easy layering)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Rolls: Slice the hoagie rolls open horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Set aside.
- Toast the Buns: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 Tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place the hoagie rolls on the skillet, cut side down, to toast for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Push the onions to the side of the pan.
- Cook the Beef: Place the ground beef in the skillet as one large patty. Let it sear for 3-4 minutes without breaking it up. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then flip and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
- Chop and Mix: Using a spatula or ChopStir, start chopping up the ground beef into smaller pieces and mix in the onions. Continue to cook and chop until the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains, about 3 more minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Divide the beef mixture into four even portions in the skillet. Top each portion with 2 slices of American cheese and allow it to melt, about 1 minute.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise and ketchup on the inside of each toasted hoagie roll. Scoop one portion of the beef and cheese mixture into each roll. Add optional toppings like shredded lettuce and tomatoes.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious Chopped Cheese Sandwich!
Customize Your Chopped Cheese with Sauces & Toppings
While the classic combo of mayo and ketchup is delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding a drizzle of chipotle mayo or garlic aioli for a flavor boost. For toppings, pickled jalapeños, caramelized onions, or even a fried egg can take your sandwich to the next level. Don’t forget the optional shredded lettuce and tomatoes for a fresh crunch!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Sandwich
This hearty chopped cheese sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy fries or a simple green salad. For a lighter option, try serving it with a tangy coleslaw or a bowl of tomato soup. If you’re hosting a crowd, add a platter of pickles and chips for a complete meal.
Quick Storage & Reheating Tips
Store any leftover chopped cheese mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the beef dry. For the buns, toast them fresh before assembling for the best texture.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Prep your onions and seasonings ahead of time, or use pre-diced onions from the store. You can also cook the beef mixture in larger batches and freeze portions for later. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat for a quick, satisfying meal.
Essential Tools for the Perfect Sandwich
A sturdy cast-iron skillet works wonders for achieving that perfect sear on the beef. A ChopStir or flat spatula makes breaking up the meat a breeze. Don’t forget a sharp knife for slicing your hoagie rolls and prepping toppings!
Easy Famous Chopped Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons butter divided
- 4 hoagie buns
- 1 onion diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 slices American cheese
- mayonnaise to taste
- ketchup to taste
- shredded lettuce optional topping
- tomatoes optional topping
Instructions
- Slice hoagie rolls open.
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add 1 Tablespoon butter. Once the butter is melted, place the hoagies on the skillet so that the inside surface gets toasted (it will take 2-3 minutes). Set toasted buns aside.
- Add remaining butter to pan and saute onions until they are translucent (about 3 minutes). Push onions to the side of the pan and add ground beef to the pan as one large patty. Let the ground beef start to brown without breaking it up (let it sear for 3-4 minutes).
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder and then flip the large ground beef patty over to sear the other side (it should take 2-3 minutes).
- Start to chop up the ground beef using a spatula or ChopStir and work the onions in with the beef. Continue to chop and cook the beef until no pink remains (should take about 3 minutes).
- Divide the meat into 4 even portions and top each portion with 2 slices of cheese. Allow the cheese to melt while in the skillet.
- Spread mayonnaise and ketchup on the inside of the buns, then top with beef and cheese mixture. Add other preferred toppings (like tomatoes and lettuce) and then serve.