The Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it’s a beloved American classic that has won hearts and taste buds nationwide. Originating in Philadelphia, this hearty combination of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll is both comforting and deeply satisfying. Adding a dip to this iconic sandwich not only enhances its bold flavors but also adds an extra layer of indulgence to every bite. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best dips for Philly cheesesteak, from timeless sauces and gourmet twists to healthier alternatives and creative DIY recipes—perfect for anyone looking to elevate this classic with a personal touch.
Classic Dipping Sauces for Philly Cheesesteak
Some dips have become staples for pairing with Philly cheesesteaks. These classic choices enhance the sandwich without overpowering its signature flavors.
- Cheese Whiz
- As a Philadelphia original, Cheese Whiz is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteak. It provides a creamy, salty, and slightly sharp cheese flavor that melts perfectly over the beef, adding a gooey texture.
- Cheese Whiz is ideal for fans of the traditional Philly cheesesteak experience, especially when drizzled directly on the sandwich or used as a dip on the side.
- Provolone Sauce
- Provolone is a versatile cheese that brings a mild, nutty flavor to the Philly cheesesteak. Known for its smooth melting properties, provolone sauce pairs well with both beef and chicken cheesesteaks.
- When combined with onions and peppers, provolone sauce can add a creamy contrast, highlighting the sandwich’s savory elements.
- Mustard Variants
- Adding a tangy mustard sauce to your Philly cheesesteak is an excellent way to introduce a zesty flavor. Spicy or Dijon mustard provides a kick that complements the richness of the beef and cheese.
- Mustard is also a lighter alternative to heavy cheese sauces, making it ideal for those looking for a flavorful yet less rich dip.
- Ketchup and Its Variations
- While ketchup isn’t traditional, it’s a common condiment that brings a sweet and acidic balance to the savory flavors of the Philly cheesesteak.
- Try flavored ketchups like sriracha or smoked varieties for an extra twist.
For more on classic dips and party favorites, you can explore the 10 Best Party Dips by Simply Recipes.
Unique and Gourmet Dipping Sauces
If you’re feeling adventurous, gourmet dips can elevate the Philly cheesesteak into a fine-dining experience. Here are some unique options to consider:
- Truffle Aioli
- This luxurious dip made from mayonnaise, garlic, and truffle oil offers a deep, earthy flavor that works well with the umami notes of the sandwich. The truffle aroma adds sophistication and turns a simple cheesesteak into a gourmet delight.
- To make truffle aioli, simply mix truffle oil with a base of mayo, a bit of lemon juice, and finely minced garlic.
- Balsamic Glaze
- For those who enjoy a sweet and tangy contrast, balsamic glaze is a fantastic choice. The acidity in balsamic helps cut through the richness of the beef and cheese, creating a balanced flavor profile.
- Drizzle the glaze lightly over the sandwich or serve it on the side as a dip.
- Garlic Parmesan Dip
- Garlic and Parmesan cheese combine to make a rich, savory dip. This option is particularly well-suited for beef cheesesteaks, adding a punch of flavor without overshadowing the main ingredients.
- Spicy Chipotle Sauce
- Made from blending chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with mayo or Greek yogurt, this dip adds a smoky heat to the Philly cheesesteak. The smoky flavor complements the meatiness of the sandwich, and the spice level can be adjusted to taste.
These gourmet dips are perfect for anyone looking to add a creative touch to their meal. For more inventive options, check out this list of dip recipes from Bon Appétit.
Healthy Dipping Alternatives
If you’re health-conscious, there are plenty of lighter, yet still flavorful, dipping options:
- Greek Yogurt-Based Dips
- Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative to heavier cheese-based dips. It’s creamy, low in calories, and high in protein.
- For a savory dip, mix Greek yogurt with fresh herbs like dill, chives, and parsley. Add garlic powder, a squeeze of lemon juice, and salt for extra flavor.
- Avocado Crema
- Avocado provides creaminess without the saturated fats in traditional cheese dips. Blend avocado with lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt for a smooth, healthy dip.
- This dip pairs beautifully with both beef and chicken cheesesteaks, adding a refreshing and light contrast.
- Hummus Variants
- Hummus offers a savory, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with cheesesteaks. Roasted red pepper or garlic hummus provides added depth and complexity.
- Hummus can be served as a side dip or spread lightly within the sandwich for a nutritious twist.
These healthy alternatives maintain flavor and texture while offering a lighter, nutrient-packed option for dipping.
DIY Philly Cheesesteak Dip Recipes to Try at Home
Making your own dips allows for customization to fit your flavor preferences perfectly. Here are some easy recipes to try:
- Homemade Cheese Sauce
- Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp flour, 1 cup milk, 1 cup shredded cheese (provolone, cheddar, or a mix works well).
- Instructions: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly add milk while whisking continuously. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Custom Spicy Mayo
- Ingredients: ½ cup mayo, 1-2 tbsp Sriracha or hot sauce, juice from ½ lime.
- Instructions: Mix ingredients in a bowl and adjust the spiciness to taste. This dip adds a creamy, spicy layer to each bite.
- Garlic Aioli Dipping Sauce
- Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp lemon juice, salt to taste.
- Instructions: Mix all ingredients until well-blended. Garlic aioli offers a rich, garlicky flavor perfect for cheesesteaks with grilled onions or peppers.
- Avocado-Lime Yogurt Dip
- Ingredients: 1 ripe avocado, ¼ cup Greek yogurt, juice from 1 lime, salt and pepper.
- Instructions: Blend ingredients until smooth for a creamy, tangy dip.
For more DIY dip ideas and ways to complement your meal, take a look at What Goes Well with Philly Cheesesteak Sliders.
Pairing Tips for Different Types of Philly Cheesesteaks
Not all Philly cheesesteaks are created equal, and the best dip for your sandwich may depend on the type:
- Chicken vs. Beef Cheesesteaks
- Chicken cheesesteaks often have a milder flavor than beef, making them ideal for lighter dips like garlic aioli, avocado crema, or a yogurt-based dip.
- Beef cheesesteaks, on the other hand, can stand up to richer, bolder flavors like cheese sauce, spicy mayo, or balsamic glaze.
- Classic vs. Loaded Cheesesteaks
- Classic cheesesteaks—containing just beef, cheese, and onions—are versatile and pair well with nearly any dip.
- Loaded cheesesteaks with additional toppings like mushrooms, peppers, and jalapeños are better complemented by milder, creamy dips like cheese sauce or garlic Parmesan to avoid overwhelming the flavors.
- Seasonal Ingredients
- In colder months, dips with warm spices or smoked elements can add depth and warmth, while in warmer weather, light, fresh dips like avocado crema or Greek yogurt-based dips are refreshing.
Flavor Profiles and Ideal Pairings
Understanding flavor profiles can make your dip selection easier. Here’s a quick guide to choosing dips based on flavor:
- Savory and Rich Dips
- Dips like cheese sauce and garlic aioli bring out the savory depth of the cheesesteak, enhancing its robust flavor profile.
- Tangy and Acidic Dips
- Mustard and balsamic glaze offer acidity that balances the richness of the beef and cheese. They’re great for adding brightness to each bite.
- Creamy and Smooth Dips
- Aioli, avocado-based dips, and even yogurt dips bring creaminess, creating a harmonious blend with the bold flavors of the cheesesteak.
For more on achieving balance in flavors, take a look at What Cheese on Philly Cheesesteak to explore cheese selections that enhance different dips.
FAQs
Provolone, American, or Cheese Whiz are popular options. Each melts beautifully and enhances the sandwich’s savory notes.
While ketchup isn’t traditional, it’s a common condiment that adds sweetness and acidity, balancing the savory and fatty flavors of the sandwich.
Beef broth is occasionally used as a dip, particularly in French dip-style sandwiches. The broth enhances the juiciness and beefy flavor.
Greek yogurt-based dips, hummus, or avocado crema are all vegetarian-friendly options that add flavor without overpowering the cheesesteak.
Light, fresh dips like garlic aioli or avocado crema are ideal, as they complement the milder flavor of chicken without overpowering it.
Conclusion
From traditional cheese sauces to gourmet creations, there are plenty of ways to elevate your Philly cheesesteak with the perfect dip. Each option brings a unique flavor and texture, turning this classic sandwich into a personalized culinary experience that’s just right for you. Whether you crave bold and spicy flavors that add a kick or light and creamy dips that provide a refreshing balance, these dipping choices offer endless ways to enhance each bite. Experiment with different flavors, mix and match, and savor the journey of discovering your perfect match for the ultimate Philly cheesesteak indulgence. Enjoy crafting your ideal dip pairing and transforming every Philly cheesesteak into a delicious, customized experience you’ll love!