Philly cheesesteaks, a mouthwatering combination of thinly sliced tender meat, melted cheese, and soft bread. But what side dish for Philly cheese steak sandwich is best?
Here, we explore the perfect sides with Philly cheesesteak and stop any sandwich from being a bit boring. Regarding side dishes, there are endless possibilities, from a classic picnic side dish to a refreshing soda shake and more.
In our guide, you can learn some of the best things to accompany your Philly cheesesteak recipe. By the end, you’ll better understand what goes with Philly cheesesteaks to make a meal you’ll never forget and want time and time again. (Learn How Many Chicken Breasts Are In A Pound)
Why Consider Serving a Side Dish for Philly Cheesesteak?
Regarding savoring a mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak, have you ever wondered about the importance of serving a side dish? The combination of thinly sliced tender meat, melted cheese, and soft bread is a culinary delight.
However, adding a well-chosen side dish can elevate Philly cheesesteaks to new heights.
Creating a Flavorsome Harmony
A thoughtfully selected side dish has the potential to enhance and complement the flavors of your beloved cheesesteak. Traditional options like crispy onion rings and French fries contrast the tender meat and soft bread.
A Balanced Culinary Journey
While the cheesesteak is a symphony of savory goodness, a well-paired side dish can provide balance and prevent flavor fatigue. Consider introducing a refreshing salad, like a zesty cilantro lime slaw or a vibrant cherry tomato salad.
Unleashing Endless Creativity
The world of side dishes is a playground of possibilities. They offer countless contrasting flavors, like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or crumbled feta cheese for a twist to the cheesesteak experience.
What Kind Of Cheese Goes On A Philly Cheesesteak?
If one question often arises when discussing the iconic Philly cheesesteak, it isn’t what are the best Philly cheesesteak sides; it’s “what kind of cheese goes on top?
This delectable sandwich, featuring thinly sliced tender meat, has been a culinary staple in Philadelphia for decades. The choice of cheese plays a crucial role in defining the flavor profile of this beloved dish. (Read Can You Freeze Cotija Cheese)
The Classic: Cheez Whiz
Cheez Whiz holds a special place in the hearts of true Philly cheesesteak enthusiasts. With its smooth and creamy texture, this processed cheese sauce melts beautifully over the meat and infuses it with a rich and tangy flavor.
Provolone: A Milder Alternative
For those seeking a cheese with a more subdued flavor, provolone steps up to the plate. This semi-soft Italian cheese delivers a mild, buttery taste that pairs harmoniously with the tender meat.
American Cheese: The All-American Favorite
If you’re a fan of the classic American cheeseburger, why not bring that same nostalgic flavor to your Philly cheesesteak? American cheese melts effortlessly and boasts a mild, creamy taste that complements the meat.
Venturing Beyond: Personalized Cheese Choices
Some cheesesteak aficionados opt for cheddar, with its sharp and robust flavor profile. Others enjoy the creamy and slightly tangy notes of Swiss cheese.
4 Best Philly Cheese Steak Sides
One of the most iconic foods in Philadelphia is the Philly Cheese Steak, but what could be better than a delicious sandwich? A well-paired side dish that complements the flavors and textures of this beloved dish can take your meal to the next level.
Here are four best Philly Cheese Steak sides you should consider on your next trip to Philly.
Garlic Dill Pickles
Garlic dill pickles are a classic addition to any picnic spread. These crunchy and flavorful pickles can be made quickly at home with just a few simple ingredients.
- To make garlic dill pickles, start by slicing fresh cucumbers and placing them in a jar with sliced garlic cloves and fresh dill sprigs.
- Next, mix vinegar, water, salt, and sugar in a saucepan and boil.
- Pour the hot mixture over the cucumbers in the jar and add olive oil for extra flavor.
- Seal the jar tightly and let it sit at room temperature for several hours before refrigerating.
Once chilled, these garlic dill pickles will be enjoyed alongside your favorite Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Consider packing these pickles and other classic picnic items like potato salad, deviled eggs, and fruit salad for your next outdoor gathering. (Learn How Long Is Deli Cheese Good For)
Cherry Tomato Salad
Cherry tomato salad is an excellent accompaniment to a Philly cheesesteak meal. The cherry tomatoes’ sweetness balances out the cheese’s saltiness in the sandwich. It also provides a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of potato fries that are typically served alongside cheesesteaks.
To make a simple cherry tomato salad, start by halving or quartering fresh cherry tomatoes and tossing them with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Incorporating a side dish like cherry tomato salad into your Philly cheesesteak meal can provide balance and freshness to complement the savory flavors of salty cheese and potato fries.
Cilantro Lime Slaw
Cilantro Lime Slaw is the perfect side dish to serve with Philly Cheesesteak. This flavorful slaw is made with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a little honey for sweetness—the tangy taste of the lime pairs well with the richness of the cheesesteak.
Although onions are a classic topping for cheesesteaks, sometimes there can be too many onions on top which can overpower other flavors.
German Potato Salad
German potato salads are a classic dish that originated in Germany and have since become popular worldwide. Regarding pairing German potato salad with other dishes, there are many options. Another great option is to pair German potato salad with a Philly cheesesteak from Geno’s Steaks.
In conclusion, German potato salad is an excellent addition to any meal or occasion. Whether you serve it alongside tender bread or pair it with a Philly cheesesteak from Geno’s, this top-of-the-Philly cheesesteak sides never fails to impress.
12 Philly Cheese Steak Sides
Philly cheesesteak is the ultimate comfort food, a perfect meal for the occasion. Another great side dish for Philly cheesesteak is coleslaw. Shredded cabbage, mixed with mayonnaise and vinegar, provides a refreshing contrast to the meaty sandwich.
Roasted Broccoli Rabe
Roasted broccoli rabe is a perfect side dish to pair with Philly cheesesteak.
The resulting dish has a slightly charred flavor that pairs well with the juicy meat of a Philly cheesesteak.
Another great side option for Philly cheesesteak is crispy golden batter fries.
Parmesan Zucchini Spears
These spears are a healthy alternative to fries and have a crispy batter that goes well with the cheesesteak.
To add an extra layer of flavor, try cooking these Parmesan Zucchini Spears in bacon grease instead of oil.
Fried Okra
Fried okra is a southern cuisine staple that pairs well with Philly cheesesteak.
An air fryer is one of the easiest ways to cook fried okra. The air fryer provides a crispy texture without all the oil and mess associated with deep-frying.
Avocado Fries
Avocado fries are a delicious and unique twist on traditional French fries.
If you’re seeking something to pair with your Philly cheesesteak, consider adding some crunchy pickles to your plate.
These tangy treats add a burst of flavor and texture that complements the rich beef and melted cheese in your sandwich. You can also try drizzling a mustard vinegar dressing over your cheesesteak for an extra kick of tangy flavor. (Learn How Long Does Sliced Cheese Last)
Potato Wedges
Potato wedges are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course, including a Philly cheesesteak.
One great way to elevate your potato wedge game is by serving them alongside a creamy avocado dip to add flavor to each bite.
Onion Rings
When pairing onion rings with Philly cheesesteak, there are a few things to consider.
First, the onion rings’ deep-fried nature helps balance the cheesesteak’s richness.
Some people like thicker slices of onion rings and a spicy kick by including seeded chili pepper in the cornmeal or beer-infused batter.
Overall, onion rings make an excellent addition to any Philly cheesesteak meal.
Fried Pickles
In a classic Philly cheesesteak recipe, the star of the show is the beefsteak. However, plenty of side dishes perfectly complement this savory sandwich.
Fried pickles offer a tangy and crunchy contrast to the rich flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.
Whether you’re serving up your Philly cheesesteaks at home or ordering from your favorite local spot, don’t forget to add some fried pickles.
Fried onions can be an alternative to pickles to serve with Philly cheesesteak favorite recipe.
French Fries
French fries are a classic and popular side dish that pairs well with many meals.
One such meal is the Philly cheesesteak, which typically comprises thinly sliced roast beef and melted American cheese on a hoagie roll.
The salty and crispy texture of the French fries can complement the savory flavors of the sandwich, making for a satisfying meal.
Blooming Onion
The blooming onion is a classic side dish that goes well with a Philly cheesesteak.
This deep-fried appetizer features a large onion sliced to resemble a flower, dredged in powdered seasonings and spices, and then in the deep fryer until crispy and golden brown.
Italian Sauteed Mushrooms
Italian Sauteed Mushrooms are a perfect side dish to pair with Philly Cheesesteak. These mushrooms are cooked in olive oil, butter, garlic, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. Drizzle the cooking juices over your beef; you’ll see why this is among the best Philly cheesesteak sides.
Last, roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can make great side dishes alongside Philly Cheesesteaks. Toss sliced bell pepper covered in olive oil and season before roasting using the oven method or toss them in the air fryer until they achieve their desired doneness.
Cookies And Cream Milkshake
One of the best things about Philly cheesesteaks sides is how well they go with the sandwich. If you want something to complement your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, consider adding some fries or onion rings on the side.
Another classic pairing for a Philly cheesesteak is an Italian roll. This bread has just the right amount of chewiness and density to hold up against all the juicy meat and cheese in your sandwich. However, to wash it down, you have a choice of suitable drinks. The first is a cookies and cream milkshake.
Root Beer Float
Pour root beer float if you’re seeking a sweet treat to pair with your Philly cheesesteak. For those who despise okra or other vegetable sides typically served with cheesesteak, top your root beer with whipped cream to finish on a high.
