Looking to take your roast beef sandwich to the next level? Check out our guide to the best cheese for roast beef sandwich, featuring a variety of options that will perfectly complement the rich, savory flavors of the beef. From sharp cheddar to creamy brie, we’ve got you covered.
Few things beat a hot, juicy roast beef sandwich with fresh-baked bread and melted cheese on top. For centuries, this iconic restaurant staple has been enjoyed by many for its delicious combination of protein and carbs in one tasty package. Not only is the classic roast beef sandwich an economical choice because you get satisfying amounts of both meatiness and carbohydrates at once, but it’s also incredibly easy to customize – making it ideal for any occasion or appetite.
Cheese is an indispensable ingredient when it comes to making a delectable roast beef sandwich. Not only does cheese add a creamy and savory flavor, but its texture also makes it essential in creating the perfect combo of ingredients that make up this classic sandwich. From mild cheddar to sharp Swiss, the type of cheese used offers versatility in building the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth bite.
When making a roast beef sandwich, the perfectly chosen cheese can take your dining experience from average to extraordinary. But with so many different types of cheeses available on the market, it can be difficult to figure out which one is best for your sandwich. Fortunately, our guide will provide you with the needed insight into finding and using the perfect cheese for your roast beef sandwich that will tantalize both your taste buds and enhance the flavor of this delectable delicacy.
What is a roast beef sandwich?
A roast beef sandwich is a type of sandwich made with cooked beef that has been roasted in an oven. The sandwich typically consists of thin-sliced beef, usually served on a sandwich roll or bun, and may be accompanied by condiments such as horseradish, mustard, mayonnaise, ketchup or barbecue sauce. It is a popular sandwich choice in many countries and can be served hot or cold. Roast beef sandwiches are a quick and easy meal choice for those on the go, and can be topped with various ingredients to add extra flavor. Whether you’re looking for a full-service lunch, an informal dinner or a soothing midnight snack, roast beef sandwiches are sure to satisfy!
What comes on a classic roast beef sandwich?
A classic roast beef sandwich typically contains thin-sliced cooked roast beef, lettuce, tomato, and either mayonnaise or mustard. A variety of other ingredients may be added to the sandwich for extra flavors, such as pickles, onions, peppers, cheese, horseradish sauce, or barbecue sauce. The preparation of the sandwich can also vary, with some people preferring to toast the bun before adding all of the ingredients. No matter how you choose to make it, a classic roast beef sandwich is sure to be delicious!
Cheese is an essential ingredient in Roast Beef Sandwiches?
Though not essential, cheese can be an excellent addition to a roast beef sandwich. Popular types of cheese used in roast beef sandwiches include Swiss, cheddar and provolone. Adding cheese to the sandwich can add an extra layer of flavor, as well as additional protein. Cheese also provides a textural contrast that enhances the overall eating experience. For a classic roast beef sandwich with cheese, try topping the sandwich with Swiss cheese and adding some horseradish for an extra kick.
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How to choose delicious cheese for a Roast Beef Sandwich?
When choosing cheese for a roast beef sandwich, it is important to consider the type of beef you are using and the overall flavor profile of the sandwich.
For example, if you are using leaner cuts of beef, then stronger flavored cheeses such as cheddar or blue cheese may be better suited for the sandwich. On the other hand, if you are using fattier cuts of beef, then milder cheeses such as Swiss or mozzarella would be a better choice.
Ultimately, the type of cheese is up to personal preference and can depend on the other ingredients that you plan to add to the sandwich.
The best cheese for roast beef sandwich
Below is a list of 13 best cheeses for roast beef sandwich that people can refer to.
1. Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is a type of cheese made with cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, or goat’s milk that has been inoculated with cultures of the mold Penicillium roqueforti. The resulting blue veins throughout the cheese give it its distinctive flavor and look.
Pros & Cons
- The pungent flavor of blue cheese can be a great addition to a roast beef sandwich
- Blue cheese has a creamy, crumbly texture that adds an interesting element to the sandwich
- The strong flavor of blue cheese may not appeal to everyone
2. Brie Cheese
Brie is a type of cheese from the region of Brie in France. It is usually made from cow’s milk and has a soft, creamy texture and slightly sweet taste.
Pros & Cons
- The creamy texture and mild sweetness of brie provide an excellent contrast to the strong flavor of roast beef
- Brie has a delicate flavor that may not be as noticeable once mixed with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
3. Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a type of hard, yellow cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a sharp and tangy flavor and is often aged for several months or years to bring out its unique flavo
Pros & Cons
- The sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar cheese adds a distinct element to the roast beef sandwich
- Cheddar cheese has a bold flavor that can overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich.
- For optimal flavor, it is best to use aged cheddar.
4. Feta Cheese
Feta is a type of cheese made from sheep’s milk or goat’s milk and has a crumbly texture and salty flavor. It is an excellent choice for adding to a roast beef sandwich, as it provides a savory contrast to the other ingredients.
Pros & Cons
- The salty flavor of feta cheese pairs well with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich Feta cheese has a strong flavor that can overpower the other flavors of the sandwich. It is best to use feta cheese in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
5. Gouda Cheese
Gouda is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk that has a mild, nutty flavor. It is usually aged for at least one year to bring out its full flavor and creamy texture.
Pros & Cons
- The mild, nutty flavor of gouda provides an interesting contrast to the other ingredients in the roast beef sandwich
- Gouda cheese has a mild flavor that may not be as noticeable when mixed with the other ingredients in the sandwich.
6. Gruyere Cheese
Gruyere is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk that has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. It is usually aged for at least six months to bring out its unique flavor and texture.
Pros & Cons
- The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of gruyere pairs nicely with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Gruyere cheese has a strong flavor that can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. It is best to use gruyere in moderation.
7. Havarti Cheese
Havarti is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk that has a semi-firm texture and mild flavor. It is usually aged for at least two months to bring out its distinctive flavor.
Pros & Cons
- The mild, buttery flavor of havarti pairs well with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Havarti cheese has a mild flavor that may not be as noticeable when mixed with the other ingredients in the sandwich. It is best to use havarti in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
8. Manchego Cheese
Manchego is a type of cheese made from sheep’s milk that has a firm texture and nutty flavor. It is usually aged for at least 3-6 months to bring out its distinctive flavor.
Pros & Cons
- The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of manchego pairs well with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Manchego cheese has a strong flavor that can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. It is best to use manchego in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
9. Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk that has a soft, creamy texture and mild flavor. It is a popular choice for adding to roast beef sandwiches, as it provides a creamy contrast to the other ingredients.
Pros & Cons
- The mild flavor of mozzarella pairs well with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Mozzarella cheese has a mild flavor that may not be as noticeable when mixed with the other ingredients in the sandwich. It is best to use mozzarella in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
10. Provolone Cheese
Provolone is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk that has a mild, smoky flavor. It is usually aged for at least four months to bring out its full flavor and creamy texture.
Pros & Cons
- The mild, smoky flavor of provolone pairs well with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Provolone cheese has a mild flavor that may not be as noticeable when mixed with the other ingredients in the sandwich. It is best to use provolone in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
11. Ricotta Salata Cheese
Ricotta salata is a type of cheese made from sheep’s milk that has a soft, crumbly texture and salty flavor. It is usually aged for at least three months to bring out its full flavor and creamy texture.
Pros & Cons
- The salty flavor of ricotta salata pairs well with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Ricotta salata cheese has a strong flavor that can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. It is best to use ricotta salata in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
12. Romano Cheese
Romano is a type of cheese made from sheep’s milk that has a sharp, salty flavor. It is usually aged for at least three months to bring out its full flavor and creamy texture.
Pros & Cons
- The sharp, salty flavor of romano pairs nicely with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Romano cheese has a strong flavor that can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. It is best to use romano in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
13. Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk that has a nutty flavor and soft texture. It is usually aged for at least 6 months to bring out its unique flavor and creamy texture.
Pros & Cons
- The nutty flavor of Swiss cheese pairs well with the other ingredients in a roast beef sandwich
- Swiss cheese has a mild flavor that may not be as noticeable when mixed with the other ingredients in the sandwich. It is best to use Swiss cheese in moderation, as too much can be overwhelming.
These are all excellent options for adding a flavorful and interesting twist to your roast beef sandwich. Experimenting with different types of cheese can help you find the perfect flavor combination to make your sandwich stand out from the ordinary.
Roast beef and cheese sandwich recipe
After discovering the list of best cheese for roast beef sandwich, it’s now time to share a little bit about the recipe for the roast beef and cheese sandwich that I know.
Do you want to make a delicious, flavorful roast beef and cheese sandwich? By following the simple steps outlined below, you can craft the perfect blend of flavors from high-quality ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of your favorite bread
- 4 ounces of thinly sliced roast beef
- 2 slices of your favorite cheese (e.g., Cheddar, Provolone, Manchego)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Directions
- Toast the bread slices in a toaster or on the stovetop.
- Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of toast.
- Layer roast beef and cheese slices onto one piece of toast, then top with lettuce and tomato (if using).
- Close the sandwich with the other piece of toast.
- Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Tips when making roast beef and cheese sandwiches
Enjoy your delicious roast beef and cheese sandwich! With these tips, you can create a tasty and unique lunch that will leave you feeling satisfied.
- Be sure to use thinly sliced roast beef, as it will be easier to bite into.
- Experiment with different types of bread to find the taste you like best.
- Use a variety of cheeses for added flavor and texture.
- Add lettuce and tomato for extra freshness.
- Toast the bread for a crispy texture.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t forget to season your sandwich with salt and pepper for added flavor.
Tricks to make the sandwich more delicious
- Try using a panini press to get a crispy grilled sandwich.
- Add some butter or olive oil to the outside of the bread before grilling it for an extra crunchy texture.
- Use a flavorful condiment such as horseradish mayonnaise or chipotle mustard to give your sandwich an extra kick of flavor.
- Add some sautéed mushrooms and onions to increase the flavor and texture of the sandwich.
- Use a strong aged cheese like cheddar, gouda, or gruyere for an intensely flavorful sandwich.
- Toast the bread in a skillet over medium-high heat for a crispy texture.
- Try adding some bacon strips to make your sandwich even more mouth-watering.
- Grill the roast beef before assembling the sandwich to get an even more intense flavor.
- Use thick slices of bread to create a hearty and filling sandwich that will keep you full longer.
Best sauce for roast beef sandwich
There are many options for a delicious sauce that pairs perfectly with a roast beef sandwich. Mayo, Dijon mustard and BBQ sauce all make great choices. For even more flavor, try mixing different sauces together like mayo and horseradish or mayo and BBQ sauce.
You can also add some sliced pickles or other vegetables to give the sandwich more texture and flavor. Another great option is to top the sandwich with a creamy béchamel sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup.
Finally, you can always go classic and just add some ketchup and mustard for an easy and tasty solution.
What do you serve with roast beef sandwiches?
A roast beef sandwich is a hearty and filling meal on its own, but it can be served with a variety of sides to make it even more complete. Popular side dishes for roast beef sandwiches include chips, fries, potato salad, coleslaw, green beans, macaroni and cheese, or baked beans.
For a light accompaniment, you can serve a side salad or some crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery sticks. You could also pair the sandwich with an appetizer such as mozzarella sticks or onion rings.
How to store cheese after use
No matter best cheese for roast beef sandwich, if it’s not properly stored, it will go bad.
It is important to store cheese properly to make sure that it does not spoil or get moldy. Cheese should be wrapped in plastic wrap or a food storage bag and kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you are storing a hard cheese, like cheddar, it will last even longer in your fridge.
If you are not going to use the cheese right away, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw the cheese in the refrigerator before using it.
- Wrap the cheese in parchment paper or waxed paper and seal with tape.
- Place the wrapped cheese into an airtight container such as a Ziploc bag or plastic storage container.
- Store the container in the refrigerator to keep it cold and prevent mold growth.
- Check on the cheese every few days to make sure it is not spoiling.
- If the cheese starts to look dry or has an odd smell, discard it immediately.
- Cheese can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator when properly stored.
- If you want to store cheese for longer periods of time, consider freezing it.
- To freeze cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze the cheese for up to three months and thaw when ready to use.
- Once the cheese has been thawed, it should be used immediately as freezing can affect its flavor and texture.
FAQs about best cheese for roast beef sandwich:
1. What can I add to beef for flavor?
You can add a variety of herbs and spices to beef for flavor. Popular choices include garlic, oregano, rosemary, thyme, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and pepper. You can also add condiments like Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar to increase the flavor.
2. What herbs are best for roast beef?
Herbs that pair best with roast beef include thyme, rosemary, oregano, and garlic. You can also add some bay leaves for a subtle flavor.
3. How do you keep roast beef moist?
To keep roast beef moist, it is important to cook the meat at a low temperature and add liquid such as broth or wine while cooking. Wrapping the beef in aluminum foil can also help retain moisture.
4. Should you put oil on roast beef?
Yes, you should always add oil to roast beef before cooking. This helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor. Olive oil is a great choice for roasting beef.
5. Best cheese for a cold roast beef sandwich?
Some great choices for a cold roast beef sandwich include cheddar, swiss, provolone and gouda. These cheeses are creamy and mild in flavor and will provide the perfect balance to your roast beef sandwich. You can also experiment with more unique flavors like blue cheese or brie for an extra kick of flavor.
6. Best cheese for a hot roast beef sandwich?
For a hot roast beef sandwich, the best cheeses are those that melt easily and quickly. Some good options include mozzarella, provolone, or American cheese. For an extra kick of flavor, try adding some goat cheese or gorgonzola to your sandwich. These will add creaminess and depth to your sandwich and will pair nicely with the beef. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some sautéed onions or mushrooms to your sandwich.
Conclusion
Cheese plays an important and integral role in a beef sandwich, adding not only texture and flavor but also deliciousness. From mild cheddar to sharp blue cheese, the varying kinds of cheese can allow a chef or home cook to customize their creation with the flavors they prefer.
Most people favor cheddar, Swiss and Havarti cheeses but depending on the individual taste and preferences, any of these cheeses could be chosen to complement roast beef sandwiches. If you’re feeling adventurous, other cheeses such as mozzarella and blue cheese can provide a unique and delicious flavor.
Above is the list of best cheese for roast beef sandwich. Depending on personal preference, everyone can choose the suitable type of cheese. The best cheese is the one that you like the most, not necessarily the most expensive one.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that no matter what type of cheese you choose for your roast beef sandwich, it should enhance the flavor of the sandwich rather than overpower it. Now all that’s left to do is pick up some bread, grab your favorite cheese, slap together a meaty masterpiece and enjoy!
