Chopped Cheese Sandwich
The Chopped Cheese Sandwich—often called “chop cheese”—is a beloved New York City bodega classic. It’s made by chopping seasoned ground beef and onions on a hot grill, melting American cheese over the top, then stuffing it into a toasted hero roll with lettuce, tomato, and condiments. It’s juicy, cheesy, and wildly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 recommended
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 hero rolls or hoagie buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 tomato thinly sliced
- Mayonnaise and ketchup to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter for grilling
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook and break up the meat until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- Chop the beef and onion mixture together with your spatula to create a fine, even texture.
- Add cheese: Divide the meat mixture into 4 portions in the pan. Place a slice of American cheese over each portion and let melt.
- Toast the rolls: While cheese is melting, lightly toast your rolls on a skillet or in the oven until golden.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Spread mayo and ketchup on each roll. Add a scoop of cheesy chopped beef, then top with shredded lettuce and tomato slices.
- Serve immediately, warm and melty.
Notes
- You can use cheddar or provolone instead of American cheese, but the classic NYC version uses American.
- For a spicier twist, add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Swap the hero roll for a brioche bun or wrap it all in a tortilla for a chopped cheese burrito.
- Best eaten fresh—this sandwich doesn’t hold up well for leftovers.