The Philly cheesesteak, a symphony of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and caramelized onions nestled in a hoagie roll, is a culinary icon. But even the most legendary dishes benefit from complementary flavors and textures. Knowing what goes good with a Philly steak sandwich elevates the experience from a quick bite to a memorable meal. This guide explores the best appetizers, side dishes, drinks, and even desserts to create the perfect Philly cheesesteak feast.
Appetizers to Kickstart Your Cheesesteak Experience
Before diving into the main event, tantalize your taste buds with appetizers that complement, not compete with, the rich flavors of the cheesesteak. The goal is to awaken the palate and prepare it for the savory indulgence ahead.
Classic Choices for a Crowd-Pleasing Start
Fried Pickles: The tanginess of fried pickles provides a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the cheesesteak. The crispy batter adds a textural element that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Their acidity cuts through the fat of the cheese and steak.
Mozzarella Sticks: A classic appetizer for a reason, mozzarella sticks offer a comforting warmth and cheesy pull that pairs well with the cheesesteak. Serve them with marinara sauce for a tangy counterpoint.
Onion Rings: Crispy, golden onion rings offer a sweet and savory crunch that complements the cheesesteak’s soft texture. The sweetness of the onions balances the salty meat.
Elevating the Appetizer Game
Spicy Shrimp Skewers: For those seeking a bit of heat, spicy shrimp skewers provide a welcome kick. The spice profile should be carefully chosen to avoid overpowering the cheesesteak’s flavors. Consider a chili-lime marinade.
Mini Crab Cakes: A touch of elegance can be added with mini crab cakes. Their delicate flavor and crispy exterior offer a sophisticated start to the meal. Serve with a remoulade sauce for added zest.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Served with crusty bread or tortilla chips, spinach and artichoke dip offers a creamy, savory indulgence that complements the cheesesteak’s richness. The earthy flavors of the spinach and artichoke provide a nice balance.
Side Dishes That Complement the Cheesesteak
Choosing the right side dishes is crucial to creating a well-rounded meal. The ideal sides should complement the cheesesteak’s flavors and textures without overwhelming them.
Classic Comfort Food Companions
French Fries: The quintessential side for any sandwich, French fries offer a salty, crispy counterpoint to the cheesesteak’s savory richness. Consider different variations like waffle fries, curly fries, or sweet potato fries for added variety. Seasoned fries are a great option.
Coleslaw: A refreshing and tangy coleslaw provides a welcome contrast to the cheesesteak’s richness. The crisp vegetables and creamy dressing offer a light and palate-cleansing element.
Mac and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a comforting and indulgent side that complements the cheesesteak’s flavors. Consider adding bacon or jalapenos for an extra kick.
Lighter and Healthier Options
Side Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing and healthy counterpoint to the cheesesteak. Choose a mix of greens, vegetables, and a light dressing to avoid overpowering the main course.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, offer a healthy and flavorful side that complements the cheesesteak’s richness. The smoky char adds depth of flavor.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides a delightful contrast to the savory cheesesteak. Their soft texture and earthy flavor make them a satisfying and nutritious side.
Drinks That Perfectly Pair With a Philly Cheesesteak
The right beverage can elevate your cheesesteak experience, cleansing your palate and complementing the sandwich’s flavors. From refreshing sodas to crisp beers, the options are plentiful.
Classic and Refreshing Choices
Soda: A classic choice, soda offers a refreshing and bubbly accompaniment to the cheesesteak. Popular options include cola, root beer, and ginger ale. The sweetness cuts through the richness of the cheesesteak.
Iced Tea: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea provides a refreshing and thirst-quenching option that complements the cheesesteak’s savory flavors. Lemon or peach iced tea adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade provides a welcome contrast to the cheesesteak’s richness. Its citrusy flavor cleanses the palate and prepares it for the next bite.
Adult Beverages to Enhance the Experience
Beer: A cold beer is a classic pairing for a cheesesteak. Lighter lagers and pilsners offer a refreshing and crisp counterpoint to the sandwich’s richness. IPAs can also work, but choose one with a balanced hop profile to avoid overpowering the flavors. Amber ales offer a great middle ground.
Wine: While not the most traditional pairing, certain wines can complement a cheesesteak. A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, can work well. The wine should be fruity and low in tannins to avoid clashing with the cheese and steak.
Sweet Endings: Desserts That Complement a Philly Cheesesteak
While a dessert might not be the first thing that comes to mind after a hearty cheesesteak, a sweet ending can provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal. The key is to choose desserts that are not too heavy or rich.
Light and Refreshing Options
Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad offers a refreshing and healthy dessert that cleanses the palate after the savory indulgence of the cheesesteak. Choose a mix of seasonal fruits for optimal flavor.
Sorbet: A light and refreshing sorbet, such as lemon or raspberry, provides a palate-cleansing dessert that contrasts with the cheesesteak’s richness. Its icy texture and tart flavor offer a satisfying conclusion to the meal.
Indulgent Yet Balanced Choices
Brownies: A fudgy brownie can satisfy a sweet craving without being too heavy. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of warm and cold.
Cheesecake Bites: Miniature cheesecake bites offer a creamy and indulgent dessert in a manageable portion. Choose a flavor that complements the cheesesteak, such as vanilla or chocolate.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Pairings for the Adventurous Palate
For those seeking more unconventional pairings, there are numerous options to explore. These pairings require a more adventurous palate but can offer a unique and memorable culinary experience.
Spicy and Savory Combinations
Jalapeno Poppers: The heat of jalapeno poppers provides a bold contrast to the cheesesteak’s savory richness. The creamy cheese filling and crispy breading add textural elements that complement the sandwich.
Chili Cheese Fries: A classic combination, chili cheese fries offer a hearty and flavorful side that complements the cheesesteak’s richness. The spicy chili and melted cheese add an extra layer of indulgence.
Unexpected Flavor Profiles
Pickled Vegetables: A variety of pickled vegetables, such as kimchi or pickled ginger, can provide a tangy and refreshing counterpoint to the cheesesteak’s richness. Their acidity cuts through the fat and cleanses the palate.
Mediterranean Mezze Platter: A mezze platter with hummus, baba ghanoush, and pita bread offers a diverse range of flavors and textures that complement the cheesesteak. The earthy flavors of the hummus and baba ghanoush provide a grounding element.
Ultimately, the best pairings for a Philly steak sandwich are those that you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new flavor combinations that tantalize your taste buds. The key is to find a balance between complementary flavors and textures, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your cheesesteak experience!
What are some classic side dishes that complement a Philly cheesesteak?
Classic sides that pair wonderfully with a Philly cheesesteak often focus on complementing the richness of the meat and cheese. Potato-based sides are a popular choice, such as crispy french fries (especially loaded fries), potato salad, or even tater tots. These provide a satisfying textural contrast and a neutral flavor base to balance the savory sandwich. Onion rings are another excellent option, adding a bit of sweetness and crunch.
Beyond potatoes, consider sides with a bit of acidity to cut through the richness. Coleslaw, especially a tangy vinegar-based slaw, can provide a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing offers a healthy and palate-cleansing option. Pickles, whether dill or sweet, also offer a sharp, contrasting flavor that complements the cheesesteak perfectly.
What are some non-traditional, yet delicious, side dish options for a Philly cheesesteak?
Venture beyond the classics and explore some unexpected, yet delightful, side dishes to accompany your Philly cheesesteak. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus, offer a healthy and flavorful counterpoint to the richness of the sandwich. Their natural sweetness, enhanced by roasting, provides a pleasant contrast to the savory meat and cheese.
Consider also delving into international flavors. A spicy corn salad with black beans and peppers can add a Southwestern kick, while a creamy macaroni salad with a hint of Dijon mustard offers a comforting and slightly tangy complement. Even a simple cup of tomato soup, especially one with a grilled cheese crouton, can be a surprising and satisfying pairing.
What kind of beverages pair well with a Philly cheesesteak?
The ideal beverage to accompany a Philly cheesesteak should either cleanse the palate or complement the savory flavors. Classic choices include an ice-cold soda, such as cola or root beer, which provides a sweet and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the sandwich. Beer, particularly a light lager or a crisp IPA, also works well, cutting through the cheese and leaving a clean finish.
For those seeking non-alcoholic options, consider iced tea, lemonade, or even a simple glass of water with lemon. These beverages offer a refreshing and palate-cleansing experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a cherry soda or a cream soda, which can complement the savory flavors in an unexpected and delightful way.
What kind of dipping sauces can enhance the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak?
While a Philly cheesesteak is delicious on its own, a well-chosen dipping sauce can elevate the experience. For a classic pairing, consider a simple aioli or garlic mayonnaise. The creamy texture and garlicky flavor complement the meat and cheese perfectly. Another popular choice is a cheese sauce, either the same kind used on the sandwich or a different variety like a sharp cheddar.
For a bolder flavor, explore options like a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce. These sauces add a kick and a depth of flavor that can cut through the richness of the cheesesteak. Conversely, a horseradish sauce provides a sharp and pungent contrast, while a creamy ranch dressing offers a familiar and comforting flavor profile.
Are there any soup pairings that complement a Philly cheesesteak?
Soup might seem like an unusual pairing for a sandwich, but certain varieties can be surprisingly complementary to a Philly cheesesteak. A classic choice is a hearty tomato soup, whose acidity cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese. The warm, comforting flavors provide a balanced and satisfying meal.
Another excellent option is a creamy potato soup or a cheese soup. These soups offer a similar flavor profile to the cheesesteak but in a different texture, creating a cohesive and comforting meal. For a lighter option, consider a vegetable soup or a broth-based soup with noodles, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
What desserts pair well after eating a Philly cheesesteak?
After indulging in a savory Philly cheesesteak, a dessert that’s not too heavy or sweet is ideal. A simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light sorbet provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing end to the meal. The cool temperature and subtle sweetness offer a pleasant contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Alternatively, consider a slice of fruit pie or a light pastry, such as a cream puff or an éclair. These desserts offer a touch of sweetness without being overly heavy. For chocolate lovers, a small piece of dark chocolate or a chocolate-covered strawberry provides a satisfying and sophisticated conclusion to the meal.
What are some healthy side dish options for a Philly cheesesteak?
Balancing the indulgence of a Philly cheesesteak with a healthy side dish is a great way to create a more balanced meal. Steamed or grilled vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, offer a nutritious and low-calorie option. Season them simply with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon to enhance their natural flavors.
Another excellent choice is a side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. Opt for a variety of colorful vegetables to maximize nutrient intake. You could also consider a side of fruit salad, providing a refreshing and naturally sweet counterpoint to the savory cheesesteak. These options provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats.