The Truth About Philly Cheesesteak Cheese (Spoiler: It’s Cooper®)

When it comes to the ultimate Philly cheesesteak, there’s one debate that never seems to settle. What cheese is on a Philly cheesesteak? Some swear by Cheez Whiz. Others insist on provolone. But if you’ve ever tasted a truly authentic, Northeast-style cheesesteak, the kind that makes your eyes close and your shoulders relax with the first bite, you already know the answer.

It’s Cooper® Sharp American Cheese. And not just because we say so. Because generations of deli-goers in Philadelphia and New York have known it all along.

Why the Right Cheese Makes or Breaks Your Cheesesteak

Thinly sliced ribeye matters. The onions need that perfect caramelized edge. The roll should be soft inside and crusty outside. But the cheese? That’s the soul of the sandwich.

Too bland, and it disappears. Too oily, and it ruins the balance. The key is a cheese made to provide the rich, savory depth that turns a good sandwich into a legendary one.

That’s why so many home cooks and even professional chefs search for the best cheese for Philly cheesesteak. They’re not just looking for meltability, though that’s key. They want flavor that stands up to the meat, texture that clings without gumminess, and that unmistakable sharpness that cuts through the richness.

Enter Cooper®.

Cooper® Sharp: The Deli Secret Everyone’s Talking About

For over 100 years, Cooper has been the go-to at deli counters across the Northeast, not because it’s flashy, but because it works. Made with a bold yet balanced sharpness, Cooper Sharp American cheese melts like a dream while holding onto its identity.

Unlike mass-market singles that turn slick or rubbery under heat, Cooper delivers a creamy, velvety melt that blankets every ribbon of beef and onion in golden, savory comfort. It’s sharp enough to add dimension, but never so aggressive that it overwhelms.

And yes, it’s the cheese that’s been quietly powering legendary cheesesteaks in Philly delis long before food blogs existed.

What Cheese Is on a Philly Cheesesteak? Let’s Settle This

You’ll hear three answers most often:

1. Cheez Whiz – The classic choice. Iconic, yes, but more nostalgic than nuanced. It’s smooth and salty, but lacks complexity.

2. Provolone – A drier, milder option favored by some South Philly spots. It melts decently but can feel waxy or bland next to juicy steak.

3. American Cheese (the right kind) – Specifically, sliced or shredded, or even sauced (“‘wit wiz, please), sharp American, like Cooper®. This is the unsung hero: rich, melty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

So when people ask, “What type of cheese for Philly cheesesteak gives you that perfect balance?” the answer isn’t just tradition. It’s taste science. Cooper hits the sweet spot between creaminess, sharpness, and melt performance that no other cheese replicates quite as well.

More Than Just a Sandwich Upgrade

Here’s the thing about Cooper®. It’s not just for cheesesteaks. While it absolutely reigns supreme in that iconic role, its versatility is part of its magic.

Think about it:

• Oozing from a toasted grilled cheese with tomato soup? Perfection.

• Swirled into mac & cheese with smoked pulled pork? A crowd-stopping main course.

• Melted over burgers, breakfast sandwiches, or even roasted veggies? Suddenly, weeknight dinners feel like celebrations.

But back to the cheesesteak, because that’s where Cooper earned its stripes. When you use Cooper Sharp, you’re not just making a sandwich. You’re tapping into more than a century of deli culture, regional pride, and culinary reliability.

As Bon Appétit put it: “Just add Cooper® and everything will be okay.” And honestly? They’re not wrong.

Ready to Taste the Difference?

If you’ve been experimenting with different cheeses and still haven’t found the one, it might be time to go back to the source. The truth is, the best Philly cheesesteak cheese isn’t a secret. It’s just been waiting for you to discover it.

For a deeper dive into why Cooper® Sharp is the gold standard and how to build the ultimate cheesesteak at home, check out our comprehensive guide: What Cheese Is on a Philly Cheesesteak? Why Cooper® Sharp Reigns Supreme.

Because when it comes to cheesesteaks, authenticity matters. Flavor matters. And Cooper? Well, it’s just the cheese that makes everything okay.

Boy oh boy, your sandwich is about to level up.