Cheese is an essential component of a great roast beef sandwich, adding creaminess, tang, and depth to complement the savory beef. But what cheese goes best on a roast beef sandwich? The answer depends on your flavor preferences, sandwich style, and chosen toppings. From bold cheddar to creamy provolone, the right cheese can take your sandwich to the next level.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top cheese options for roast beef sandwiches, pairing tips, and creative ways to incorporate cheese for the ultimate flavor experience. Let’s dive in!
Why Cheese Matters on a Roast Beef Sandwich
Cheese isn’t just a topping; it’s a key ingredient that enhances the flavor, texture, and overall experience of a roast beef sandwich. Here’s why choosing the right cheese is essential.
1. How Cheese Enhances the Flavor of Roast Beef
- Balancing Savory Notes: The rich, savory flavor of roast beef pairs perfectly with cheese that adds a tangy or creamy contrast.
- Adding Depth: Aged cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese bring bold, complex flavors that elevate the sandwich.
- Complementing Sauces: Cheese melts beautifully into sauces like horseradish or barbecue, creating a cohesive flavor profile.
2. Balancing Texture and Flavor in Sandwiches
- Creaminess: Cheeses like provolone or Swiss add a smooth, creamy texture that contrasts with the beef’s hearty chew.
- Sharpness: Stronger cheeses like cheddar or gouda cut through the richness of the beef and add a bold flavor punch.
- Melting Properties: The way cheese melts can turn an ordinary sandwich into a warm, gooey masterpiece.
Why Cheese is Essential
Without cheese, a roast beef sandwich can feel incomplete. The right cheese not only enhances the beef’s flavor but also ties together the other elements of the sandwich, from bread to toppings.
Top Cheese Choices for Roast Beef Sandwiches
Choosing the right cheese can elevate your roast beef sandwich, complementing its savory flavors and adding richness. Here are some of the best options to consider.
1. Cheddar: A Bold and Tangy Option
- Flavor: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy, robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich, beefy taste of roast beef.
- Best Use: Great for sandwiches with barbecue sauce, caramelized onions, or horseradish for a bold flavor profile.
- Pro Tip: Use aged cheddar for an even stronger, nuttier taste.
2. Swiss: A Classic Choice
- Flavor: Mild and nutty, Swiss cheese complements roast beef without overpowering it.
- Best Use: Ideal for French dip sandwiches or when paired with mustard or mayo for a classic deli-style sandwich.
- Pro Tip: Melt Swiss over the beef for a creamy texture.
3. Provolone: Creamy and Mild
- Flavor: Provolone has a smooth, slightly smoky flavor that works well with both hot and cold roast beef sandwiches.
- Best Use: Perfect for Italian-inspired sandwiches with roasted red peppers or pesto.
- Pro Tip: Use smoked provolone for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Blue Cheese: A Gourmet Twist
- Flavor: Bold and tangy, blue cheese adds a gourmet element to your roast beef sandwich.
- Best Use: Pair with arugula, pickled onions, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sophisticated twist.
- Pro Tip: Crumble blue cheese directly onto the beef, or mix it into a spreadable sauce.
5. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack
- Flavor: Monterey Jack offers a creamy, mild flavor, while Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick.
- Best Use: Great for Southwest-style sandwiches with jalapeños, avocado, or chipotle mayo.
- Pro Tip: Use Pepper Jack to add a zesty, spicy touch to your sandwich.
6. Havarti: Buttery and Smooth
- Flavor: Havarti’s buttery, slightly tangy flavor makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a milder cheese.
- Best Use: Pairs well with fresh greens and a touch of Dijon mustard.
- Pro Tip: Try dill Havarti for a unique twist.
Why These Cheeses Work
Each of these cheeses brings unique flavors and textures that complement roast beef’s savory, hearty profile. Whether you prefer a bold cheddar or a creamy provolone, there’s a cheese for every sandwich style.
How to Choose the Right Cheese for Your Sandwich
Selecting the right cheese for your roast beef sandwich involves considering flavors, textures, and how the cheese interacts with other ingredients. Here’s how to make the perfect choice.
1. Pairing Cheese with Toppings and Sauces
- Bold Toppings:
- Pair strong cheeses like sharp cheddar or blue cheese with robust flavors like horseradish, caramelized onions, or arugula.
- Mild Toppings:
- Opt for milder cheeses like provolone or Swiss when using subtle toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or mayo.
- Spicy Sauces:
- Use creamy cheeses like Monterey Jack or Havarti to balance the heat from jalapeños or chipotle mayo.
2. Considering Meltability
- Hot Sandwiches:
- Choose cheeses that melt well, such as provolone, Swiss, or cheddar, for gooey, comforting textures in grilled or toasted sandwiches.
- Cold Sandwiches:
- For non-melted options, soft cheeses like Havarti or crumbly blue cheese add a creamy contrast.
3. Matching Cheese to Bread and Beef Flavor
- Rye or Sourdough Bread:
- These breads pair well with bold cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or blue cheese.
- Soft Rolls or Hoagie Buns:
- Milder cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack complement the softer texture and don’t overpower the beef.
- Beef Flavor:
- Heavily seasoned or smoky roast beef pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses, while leaner, less seasoned beef benefits from sharper cheese options.
4. Balancing Complexity
- Simple Sandwiches:
- Stick to one type of cheese for a clean, straightforward flavor profile.
- Gourmet Sandwiches:
- Combine two or more cheeses, like cheddar and Swiss, to add depth and interest to your sandwich.
Pro Tip: Always consider the cheese as part of the bigger picture, ensuring it complements rather than overpowers the other ingredients.
Creative Cheese Pairings for Roast Beef Sandwiches
Taking your roast beef sandwich to the next level is all about experimenting with creative cheese combinations and pairings. Here are some innovative ideas to inspire your sandwich-making.
1. Combining Two or More Cheeses
Mixing cheeses can create a balanced flavor profile and add complexity to your sandwich.
- Cheddar and Provolone
- Combines sharpness with creaminess for a well-rounded flavor.
- Swiss and Blue Cheese
- The nuttiness of Swiss complements the bold, tangy kick of blue cheese.
- Havarti and Pepper Jack
- A buttery base with a spicy twist for a unique flavor combination.
Pro Tip: Melt the cheeses together for a gooey, cohesive texture.
2. Adding Bold Cheeses for a Gourmet Touch
- Smoked Gouda
- Adds a smoky, creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with roast beef and barbecue sauce.
- Aged Parmesan
- Shaved Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor and works well in open-faced sandwiches.
- Brie
- For a luxurious touch, pair brie with roast beef, arugula, and cranberry sauce.
3. Choosing Cheese for Different Sandwich Styles
- French Dip Sandwich
- Use melted provolone or Swiss for a classic pairing with au jus.
- Italian-Style Roast Beef Sandwich
- Pair provolone with roasted red peppers, basil, and balsamic glaze for Mediterranean flavors.
- Southwest Roast Beef Sandwich
- Opt for Pepper Jack and add toppings like avocado, chipotle mayo, and jalapeños.
Pro Tip: Match the cheese to the sandwich theme to create a cohesive flavor experience.
Why Experiment with Cheese Pairings?
Creative cheese pairings allow you to customize your roast beef sandwich to suit different occasions and flavor preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual lunch, the right cheese combination can transform your sandwich into a memorable meal.
FAQs About Cheese and Roast Beef Sandwiches
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about choosing and pairing cheese for roast beef sandwiches.
1. Can I Use Spicy Cheese on a Roast Beef Sandwich?
Yes! Spicy cheeses can add an exciting kick to your sandwich:
- Pepper Jack: A creamy cheese with a subtle heat that pairs well with fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes.
- Spicy Havarti: Infused with jalapeños or chili flakes, this cheese provides a mild, buttery heat.
- Smoked Cheddar with Chipotle: Adds a smoky, spicy flavor that enhances roast beef with barbecue or chipotle sauce.
Pro Tip: Balance the heat with creamy condiments like mayo or avocado slices.
2. What’s the Best Cheese for a French Dip Sandwich?
For French dip sandwiches, choose cheeses that melt well and complement the rich, savory au jus:
- Provolone: A creamy, mild option that melts smoothly.
- Swiss Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor without overpowering the sandwich.
- Mozzarella: Offers a mild, stretchy texture that pairs beautifully with the broth.
3. Can I Use Non-Dairy Cheese for Roast Beef Sandwiches?
Absolutely! Non-dairy cheeses are a great option for those avoiding dairy:
- Coconut-Based Cheeses: Creamy and mild, ideal for melting.
- Cashew Cheese: Offers a rich, nutty flavor for gourmet sandwiches.
- Plant-Based Cheddar or Provolone: Mimics the texture and taste of traditional cheese while remaining dairy-free.
Pro Tip: Choose non-dairy cheeses labeled “melts easily” for hot sandwiches.
4. What Cheese Works Best for Cold Roast Beef Sandwiches?
For cold sandwiches, opt for cheeses that add flavor without needing to melt:
- Havarti: Buttery and smooth, perfect for layering with fresh greens and tomatoes.
- Brie: A soft, creamy cheese that pairs well with fruit-based condiments.
- Sharp Cheddar: Adds tang and texture, even when served cold.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Roast Beef Sandwich with the Perfect Cheese
Choosing the right cheese for your roast beef sandwich can transform it into a truly delicious meal. Whether you prefer the sharp tang of cheddar, the creaminess of provolone, or the boldness of blue cheese, there’s a cheese to suit every sandwich style. Pair your cheese choice with complementary toppings, sauces, and breads for a balanced and flavorful experience.
Key Takeaways
- Bold Cheeses: Cheddar and blue cheese work well with strong flavors like horseradish or caramelized onions.
- Mild Cheeses: Provolone, Swiss, or Havarti add creaminess without overpowering the roast beef.
- Creative Pairings: Experiment with combinations of cheeses or try gourmet options like smoked gouda or brie.
With these tips, you’re ready to craft the ultimate roast beef sandwich that’s packed with flavor and texture. For more inspiration, explore our creative sandwich ideas or check out our guide to perfect soup pairings for a complete meal.