What Is the Difference Between a Cheese Steak and a Philly Cheesesteak?

What is the difference between a cheese steak and a Philly cheesesteak? This is a question that many food lovers and sandwich enthusiasts ask. While both sandwiches share a similar foundation of thinly sliced steak and melted cheese inside a roll, there are key distinctions that set them apart.

A cheesesteak is a general term for this iconic sandwich, but a Philly cheesesteak follows a strict recipe that originated in Philadelphia. It uses ribeye steak, Cheez Whiz (or provolone/American cheese), and an Amoroso hoagie roll—a combination that makes it truly special.

So, are you eating an authentic Philly cheesesteak, or is it just a generic cheesesteak? Let’s dive into the details and uncover the key differences!

What is a Cheesesteak?

Origins and History of the Cheesesteak

The cheesesteak has a long and tasty history. It all started in the early 20th century when sandwich lovers realized that thinly sliced beef and melted cheese inside a roll created something magical. While Philly gets most of the credit for the cheesesteak, variations of this sandwich have popped up all over the U.S.

Unlike the Philly cheesesteak, which has strict ingredient rules (we’ll get into that soon), a regular cheesesteak is open to interpretation. You can throw in different types of cheese, veggies, sauces, and even experiment with different bread. It’s more of a flexible, regional sandwich rather than a specific recipe.

Key Ingredients Used in a Traditional Cheesesteak

So, what’s in a standard cheesesteak? Let’s break it down:

The beauty of a cheesesteak is that it’s customizable. Want spicy peppers? Go for it! Prefer extra cheese? Pile it on! A cheesesteak gives you the freedom to make it your own.

Regional Variations of Cheesesteaks

Depending on where you are in the U.S., you’ll find different takes on the cheesesteak. Here are some fun variations:

• The New York Cheesesteak: Uses more seasonings and sometimes marinara sauce.
• The Chicago Cheesesteak: Often served with giardiniera (pickled vegetables) for extra tang.
• The California Cheesesteak: Usually includes avocado and fancy sauces.
• The Texas Cheesesteak: Loaded with jalapeños and spicy queso.

These variations all take the basic cheesesteak concept and give it a regional twist, but they still fall under the general “cheesesteak” category.

What is a Philly Cheesesteak?

The Birthplace of the Philly Cheesesteak

Now, here’s where things get serious. The Philly cheesesteak isn’t just any sandwich – it’s a Philadelphia institution. The legend goes that back in the 1930s, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri decided to cook up some thinly sliced beef and put it in a roll. A cab driver tried it, loved it, and told everyone about it. Soon, Olivieri opened Pat’s King of Steaks, and the Philly cheesesteak was born.

But what makes a Philly cheesesteak authentic? Let’s get into it!

Chicken Cheese Steak Recipe: A Flavorful Homemade Delight – This link would be perfect when discussing variations of cheesesteaks, particularly if mentioning chicken-based alternatives.

Authentic Ingredients of a Philly Cheesesteak

Unlike the generic cheesesteak, a true Philly cheesesteak has specific ingredients that must be followed. No exceptions.

If you go to Philly and ask for Swiss cheese or a different bread, prepare for some dirty looks.

How a Philly Cheesesteak is Traditionally Made

Making a Philly cheesesteak is an art. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Thinly slice the ribeye steak (it should be almost paper-thin).
2. Grill the steak on a flat-top griddle with just a little oil.
3. Add cheese (usually Whiz, American, or provolone) and let it melt into the steak.
4. Toast the hoagie roll slightly to get that perfect crunch.
5. Stuff the roll with the cheesy steak goodness.
6. Top with onions (if you want it “wit”).
7. Enjoy!

“If you haven’t had a Philly cheesesteak the right way, have you even lived?”

The Philly cheesesteak is all about simplicity. No extra sauces, no fancy toppings—just beef, cheese, and a roll. And that’s what makes it special!

Main Differences Between a Cheesesteak and a Philly Cheesesteak

Alright, now that we know what both sandwiches are, let’s get to the big question: What’s the actual difference between a cheesesteak and a Philly cheesesteak?

While they may seem similar, there are some clear distinctions that separate these two sandwich giants. Let’s break them down.

1. Difference in Bread and Rolls Used

One of the biggest differences between a cheesesteak and a Philly cheesesteak is the bread.

• Philly Cheesesteak: The roll has to be an authentic hoagie roll, preferably from a brand like Amoroso’s or Liscio’s. It should be soft yet slightly crispy on the outside, sturdy enough to hold all the fillings.
• Regular Cheesesteak: Any roll will do! Some places use sub rolls, French bread, or even ciabatta, which gives it a different texture and flavor.

In short, if it’s not a real hoagie roll, it’s probably just a cheesesteak, not a true Philly one!

2. The Cheese Factor: What Makes It Unique?

Now, let’s talk cheese. This is a HUGE factor that defines whether you’re eating a Philly cheesesteak or just a generic cheesesteak.

• Philly Cheesesteak: The only accepted cheeses are Cheez Whiz, American, or provolone. That’s it. No cheddar, Swiss, or fancy cheeses!
• Regular Cheesesteak: Anything goes! Some places use cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack.

“Cheez Whiz might sound weird, but trust me—it’s the secret ingredient that makes a Philly cheesesteak unforgettable!”

So, if you see a cheesesteak loaded with cheddar, it’s not a true Philly.

3. Cooking Techniques: Traditional vs. Modern Approaches

The way the steak is cooked also plays a major role. Here’s how they differ:

• Philly Cheesesteak: Always cooked on a flat-top griddle. The beef is chopped or sliced thinly and cooked with minimal seasoning.
• Regular Cheesesteak: Can be grilled, pan-fried, or even oven-baked, depending on the restaurant or home recipe.

The griddle technique in Philly cheesesteaks gives the steak a slightly crispy, caramelized texture, which is key to its authentic taste.

4. Regional Interpretations and Variations

We touched on this earlier, but let’s highlight some of the biggest differences:

• Philly Cheesesteak: Simple, minimal ingredients, no extra toppings.
• Other Cheesesteaks: Can have mushrooms, bell peppers, jalapeños, BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, and even bacon.

Adding too many toppings takes away from the original Philly cheesesteak experience!

Common Problems People Face When Ordering a Cheesesteak

Ordering a cheesesteak sounds easy, right? But trust me, there are some mistakes people make all the time! Here’s a quick guide to avoid embarrassing moments at a cheesesteak joint.

1. Mistaking a Regular Cheesesteak for a Philly Cheesesteak

Many restaurants outside of Philadelphia advertise “Philly cheesesteaks” when they’re really just selling a regular cheesesteak. How can you tell?

• If they don’t use an Amoroso’s roll, it’s not authentic.
• If they offer cheddar or Swiss cheese, it’s a fake.
• If they load it with too many ingredients, it’s just another variation.

“A true Philly cheesesteak sticks to tradition—anything else is just a tasty imposter!”

2. Choosing the Wrong Cheese

Another common mistake is picking the wrong cheese. If you want the authentic Philly experience, order it with Cheez Whiz or provolone. American cheese is acceptable, but anything else is just not right!

3. Getting the Bread Wrong

If you walk into a sandwich shop and they serve you a cheesesteak on a baguette or sourdough roll, run. That’s NOT a Philly cheesesteak.

4. Overloading the Sandwich with Ingredients

Yes, I know toppings can be delicious, but a Philly cheesesteak is supposed to be simple. Some people get carried away and add:

• Tomatoes
• Lettuce
• Pickles
• Mayo or ketchup

While these ingredients might be tasty on other sandwiches, they have no place on an authentic Philly cheesesteak!

What Meat to Use for Cheesesteaks: A Complete Guide – A crucial internal link when explaining what makes a proper Philly cheesesteak.

Solutions to Common Cheesesteak Problems

1. How to Order an Authentic Philly Cheesesteak

If you ever visit Philadelphia, you need to know the correct way to order. Locals have a unique way of doing it. Here’s a quick guide:

• Step 1: Decide if you want onions or not. If yes, say “wit.” If no, say “witout.”
• Step 2: Choose your cheese – Whiz, American, or provolone.
• Step 3: Order with confidence! Example: “One Whiz wit.” (This means a cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions.)

That’s it! If you hesitate or ask too many questions, expect some eye-rolls from the staff.

2. Understanding Cheese Options

When in doubt, go with Cheez Whiz. It may sound unusual, but it’s the classic choice. If you prefer something milder, American cheese is a safe bet.

3. Finding the Right Bread for the Perfect Bite

If you’re making a cheesesteak at home, try to find Amoroso’s rolls. If you can’t, go for a soft hoagie roll with a slightly crispy crust.

Nutrition Facts of a Philly Cheesesteak

Ever wondered how many calories are in a Philly cheesesteak? Here’s a quick breakdown:

Yep, it’s not exactly diet food, but hey—it’s worth every bite!

Tips for Making the Best Cheesesteak at Home

Now that we’ve covered everything about cheesesteaks vs. Philly cheesesteaks, let’s talk about something exciting: how to make the perfect one at home!

Whether you want to recreate an authentic Philly cheesesteak or just a delicious homemade cheesesteak, these tips will help you get that restaurant-quality taste. Let’s get started!

1. Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

The meat is the heart of any cheesesteak, so picking the right cut is crucial. The best choice? Ribeye steak.

• It’s tender, juicy, and has the right amount of fat for flavor.
• When cooked properly, it stays moist and doesn’t dry out.
• If ribeye is too pricey, sirloin is a decent alternative.

“A great cheesesteak starts with great steak—don’t cut corners on this step!”

2. Getting the Perfect Cheese Melt

One of the best things about a cheesesteak is that gooey, melty cheese that blends into the steak. Here’s how to do it right:

• For Cheez Whiz, heat it separately and drizzle it over the steak before serving.
• If using provolone or American cheese, place the slices directly on the hot steak while it’s still on the grill, allowing it to melt naturally.
• For an extra-melty effect, cover the steak and cheese with a lid for about 30 seconds.

The key is to let the cheese fuse with the steak, rather than just sitting on top!

3. The Secret to the Perfect Roll

We’ve already talked about the importance of the roll, but here’s a trick: lightly toast the inside of the roll before adding the steak.

• It adds a little crunch and prevents the roll from getting soggy.
• Use a buttered griddle or toaster for a golden-brown finish.
• Don’t over-toast it – a cheesesteak should still have that soft bite!

If you can’t find Amoroso’s rolls, go for soft hoagie rolls with a thin crust.

4. Sautéing Onions to Enhance Flavor

For an authentic “wit” cheesesteak, onions are key! Here’s how to make them perfect:

1. Use yellow or white onions – they caramelize best.
2. Sauté them in butter or a bit of steak drippings for extra flavor.
3. Cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes until golden and soft.

“Slow-cooked onions add a deep, rich flavor that takes a cheesesteak to the next level!”

The Ultimate Guide to Brisket Sandwich: Recipes, Tips, and FAQs – Could be relevant if discussing alternative meats used in steak sandwiches.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Homemade Philly Cheesesteak

Ready to make your own Philly cheesesteak? Here’s a foolproof recipe!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. **Slice the steak:** If not pre-sliced, freeze the ribeye for 30 minutes, then slice as thin as possible.
2. **Heat a griddle or pan:** Add a little vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. **Cook the onions:** Sauté with butter until soft and golden brown (about 10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
4. **Cook the steak:** Increase heat to high, add steak, season with salt & pepper, and cook for about 3 minutes.
5. **Melt the cheese:** If using provolone or American cheese, lay the slices over the steak and let them melt. If using Whiz, warm it separately.
6. **Prepare the roll:** Lightly toast the inside of the hoagie roll.
7. **Assemble the sandwich:** Load the steak and onions into the roll, top with melted cheese.
8. **Enjoy!** Serve immediately with fries or chips.

And that’s it! You now have a restaurant-quality Philly cheesesteak right at home.

Conclusion

So, what’s the final takeaway? The cheesesteak and the Philly cheesesteak may look similar, but they’re definitely not the same. Here’s a quick recap:

If you want the real Philly experience, keep it simple: ribeye steak, Cheez Whiz, onions (if desired), and a proper hoagie roll. Anything else? Well, it’s still a cheesesteak—just not an *authentic* Philly cheesesteak.

“A Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich—it’s a piece of Philadelphia’s soul wrapped in a hoagie roll!”

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer the classic Philly cheesesteak or love experimenting with different styles, there’s no denying that cheesesteaks are one of America’s most beloved sandwiches.

Now that you know the difference, the next time someone asks, “What’s the difference between a cheesesteak and a Philly cheesesteak?”—you can confidently answer!

So, are you team Philly cheesesteak, or do you love a good cheesesteak with extra toppings? Let me know in the comments!

Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich from Philadelphia, made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Sandwich

Cuisine American

Servings 2 sandwiches

Calories 850 kcal

Equipment

• Griddle or Cast Iron Pan

Ingredients

  

Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients

• 1 lb ribeye steak thinly sliced
• 2 Amoroso hoagie rolls or any soft hoagie roll
• 1/2 cup Cheez Whiz or provolone/American cheese
• 1 medium onion thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Thinly slice the ribeye steak. If needed, freeze for 30 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.
• Heat a griddle or cast iron pan over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil.
• Saute the onions in butter until soft and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
• Increase heat to high and cook the ribeye steak, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, chopping with a spatula as it browns.
• If using provolone or American cheese, place slices on top of the hot steak and let them melt. If using Cheez Whiz, warm it separately.
• Lightly toast the hoagie rolls to prevent sogginess.
• Assemble the sandwich by loading the steak into the roll and topping with melted cheese and sautéed onions.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For the most authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, use Amoroso hoagie rolls and Cheez Whiz. Avoid adding extra toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or mayo.

Keyword Beef, Philly Cheesesteak, Sandwich