What Are Good Sauces For Philly Cheesesteaks? 5 Options

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Back in the 1900s, **Philadelphia** gave us the iconic Philly cheesesteak, a favorite sandwich across the United States.

However, what sets a great Philly cheesesteak apart is the sauce. The right sauce can take this sandwich to the next level, adding flavor and texture to every bite. 

But what are good sauces for Philly cheesesteaks?

I’ll share with you some of the best sauces to pair with your Philly cheesesteak, from classic options to more adventurous choices. Whether you prefer a tangy, spicy, or creamy sauce, we’ve got you covered. 

5 Best Sauces For Philly Cheesesteaks

1. Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is arguably the most classic and popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks. It’s a creamy and savory sauce that perfectly complements the melted cheese in the sandwich. 

The cheese sauce [1] is typically made with a blend of cheeses, including provolone and American cheese, melted down with milk or cream to create a smooth and velvety consistency. 

It adds an extra layer of richness and depth of flavor to the sandwich and is a must-try for any cheese lover, whether homemade or store-bought.

2. Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli sauce adds a delicious and bold flavor to the Philly cheesesteak. This sauce is made by blending garlic, mayonnaise, and lemon juice, resulting in a smooth and creamy consistency. 

The garlic provides a savory and pungent flavor that pairs well with the savory steak and melted cheese, while the mayonnaise adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess to the sandwich. 

The tanginess from the lemon juice adds an extra layer of complexity to the aioli.

3. Hot Sauce

For those who love a little bit of spice in their food, hot sauce is an excellent choice to add to your Philly cheesesteak. The hot sauce comes in various heat levels and flavors, so you can choose one that matches your preference. 

“I said you could sue a ham sandwich. It’s not going to change anything. Well, you can audit a ham sandwich, and it won’t change anything.”

– John Fetterman, United States Senator

Hot sauce [2] adds a spicy kick to the sandwich, which balances well with the savory flavors of the steak and cheese. Hot sauce can also be used sparingly or generously, depending on your tolerance for heat. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different hot sauce flavors to find the perfect match for your Philly cheesesteak.

4. Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce is a popular choice for many dishes and is no different for Philly cheesesteaks. This sweet and tangy sauce adds a smoky flavor to the sandwich that complements the savory flavors of the steak and cheese. 

The tanginess balances the sauce’s sweetness, resulting in a complex and delicious flavor.

Additionally, the thickness of the barbecue sauce provides a rich and sticky texture to the sandwich, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a saucier sandwich. 

5. Peppers and Onions

While not technically a sauce, sautéed peppers and onions are a classic topping for Philly cheesesteaks that adds flavor and texture. The sweetness and crunchiness of the peppers and onions perfectly complement the savory flavors of the steak and cheese. 

They can be cooked in butter or oil to bring out their natural flavors and then added to the sandwich with or without the cheese. 

“Greatness lies in the harmony of flavors, and a well-crafted sauce is the secret ingredient that transforms a Philly cheesesteak from ordinary to extraordinary.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Adding peppers and onions provides a healthy and flavorful way to add some vegetables to your sandwich, making it an excellent choice for those who want to add some nutrition to their meal. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When enjoying a delicious Philly cheesesteak, the proper sauce can make all the difference.

There are many great sauces, from classic options like cheese sauce, sautéed peppers, and onions to more adventurous choices like garlic aioli and hot sauce. 

Whether you prefer a tangy, spicy, or creamy sauce, there is a perfect match out there for you.

While it’s important to remember that traditional Philly cheesesteaks do not typically include ketchup or mustard, it’s always a good idea to experiment and customize your sandwich to your liking. 

References:

1. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/cheese-sauce
2. https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-hot-sauce-reviews.html