If you’re a fan of authentic Philly cheesesteaks or just curious about what makes them truly iconic, this listicle is for you. We’ll break down the two most famous cheese options—Cooper sharp provolone and Cheez Whiz—explaining their origins, flavor profiles, and why each has a devoted following. Whether you’re ordering at a South Philly joint or making one at home, understanding these cheeses will help you appreciate the classic Philly cheesesteak on a deeper level.
Cooper Sharp Provolone: The Traditional Favorite
Cooper sharp provolone is a real cheese made from cow’s milk, aged to develop a tangy, sharp flavor that complements the savory steak. It melts beautifully, creating a creamy yet slightly firm texture that holds up well against the juicy meat and sautéed onions. Many purists argue that sharp provolone offers a more authentic and balanced cheesesteak experience, especially in the Italian-American communities of Philadelphia where this cheese has been a staple for decades.
Cheez Whiz: The Iconic Convenience Classic
Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese sauce introduced by Kraft in the 1950s and quickly adopted by many Philly cheesesteak vendors for its ease of use and distinctive flavor. It’s smooth, gooey, and intensely cheesy with a salty, slightly artificial tang that some fans say perfectly complements the fatty, thinly sliced ribeye. Despite its processed nature, Cheez Whiz remains a cultural symbol of Philly cheesesteaks and is especially popular among tourists and locals who prefer a messy, indulgent sandwich.
Flavor Profiles Compared
Cooper sharp provolone delivers a complex, slightly nutty and tangy flavor derived from natural aging, which balances the richness of the beef. In contrast, Cheez Whiz offers a more straightforward, salty, and creamy taste with a hint of processed cheese funk that cuts through the meat’s fattiness. Choosing between them often comes down to whether you want a nuanced cheese experience or a bold, unmistakably cheesy punch.
Texture and Melt Quality
Cooper sharp provolone melts into a smooth, slightly elastic layer that clings to the steak and bread without overwhelming the sandwich’s structure. Cheez Whiz, being a liquid cheese product, coats the meat in a velvety, almost sauce-like consistency that can be messier but also ensures every bite is loaded with cheese. The difference in melt texture affects how the sandwich feels in your mouth and how easily it holds together while eating.
Historical Origins in Philly Cheesesteaks
The cheesesteak originated in the 1930s with Pat Olivieri, who initially used provolone cheese before Cheez Whiz was invented. Cheez Whiz wasn’t introduced until the 1950s and gained popularity because it was inexpensive, had a long shelf life, and melted quickly. Over time, both cheeses became entrenched in Philly cheesesteak culture, with some iconic shops favoring one over the other, often sparking friendly debates among locals and visitors alike.
Regional Preferences Within Philadelphia
South Philadelphia, home to the original cheesesteak shops, tends to favor Cooper sharp provolone or American cheese, emphasizing traditional ingredients. Meanwhile, many shops in Center City and tourist-heavy areas lean towards Cheez Whiz as a crowd-pleaser and convenience option. This regional variation means that your cheesesteak experience might differ depending on where you order, reflecting the diverse tastes and traditions within the city.
Health and Ingredient Considerations
Cooper sharp provolone is a natural cheese with fewer additives, typically containing milk, salt, enzymes, and cultures. Cheez Whiz, as a processed cheese product, contains emulsifiers, preservatives, and artificial flavors, which some consumers prefer to avoid. For those mindful of ingredient quality or dietary restrictions, Cooper provolone is often the healthier, less processed choice.
Pairing with Bread and Steak
Both cheeses pair best with thinly sliced ribeye steak and a sturdy Italian roll, but their cheese characteristics influence the overall sandwich balance. Sharp provolone’s firmer melt allows the beef flavor to shine through, while Cheez Whiz adds a creamy, salty coating that can dominate the palate. This difference affects how you experience the interplay of bread, meat, and cheese in every bite.
Preparation and Serving Differences
Cooper sharp provolone requires slicing and careful melting, often layered over the steak on the grill or under a sandwich press. Cheez Whiz, by contrast, is typically warmed and spooned directly onto the steak, speeding up service and simplifying prep. This convenience factor made Cheez Whiz a favorite in busy shops and is one reason why it remains so popular despite its processed nature.
Fan Base and Cultural Impact
Cooper sharp provolone is beloved by cheesesteak connoisseurs and those seeking a more traditional, artisanal sandwich experience. Cheez Whiz has a cult following among fans who appreciate its nostalgic, indulgent qualities and the iconic status it holds in Philadelphia pop culture. The rivalry between the two cheeses reflects broader conversations about authenticity, convenience, and taste that define the city’s food scene.
How to Choose
When deciding between Cooper sharp provolone and Cheez Whiz for your Philly cheesesteak, consider flavor preference, texture, and authenticity. If you want a sharp, natural cheese that complements the steak without overpowering it, go with Cooper provolone. If you prefer a creamy, gooey, and distinctly cheesy sauce that melts instantly and delivers a nostalgic Philly vibe, Cheez Whiz is your pick. Also, think about the setting—homemade sandwiches often benefit from the natural cheese’s complexity, while busy shops may favor Cheez Whiz for speed and consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cheez Whiz actually cheese?
Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese product containing real cheese but also emulsifiers, oils, and preservatives, making it different from natural cheese like provolone.
Can you use other cheeses on a Philly cheesesteak?
Yes, some shops use American cheese or even mozzarella, but Cooper sharp provolone and Cheez Whiz remain the most iconic and traditional options.
Which cheese melts better on a cheesesteak?
Cheez Whiz melts instantly into a smooth sauce, while Cooper provolone melts into a creamy but firmer layer. Both melt well but provide different textures.
Is one cheese healthier than the other?
Cooper sharp provolone is generally less processed and contains fewer additives than Cheez Whiz, making it a better choice for those concerned about artificial ingredients.
Where can I find authentic Cooper sharp provolone?
Cooper sharp provolone is widely available in specialty cheese shops, some grocery stores, and directly from the Cooper Cheese Company, based in Ohio, which produces this popular cheese.
Why do some people swear by Cheez Whiz on cheesesteaks?
Many fans love Cheez Whiz for its nostalgic flavor, creamy texture, and the iconic Philly cheesesteak experience it represents, especially in classic shops like Pat’s King of Steaks.
Final Thoughts
The choice between Cooper sharp provolone and Cheez Whiz on a Philly cheesesteak ultimately comes down to personal taste and what kind of cheesesteak experience you’re seeking. Cooper provolone offers a natural, sharp, and balanced flavor that highlights the quality of the steak and bread. Cheez Whiz delivers an indulgent, creamy, and unmistakably Philly cheese punch that’s beloved for its convenience and cultural cachet. Both cheeses have earned their place in Philadelphia’s culinary history, so trying both is the best way to appreciate this iconic sandwich’s full spectrum.
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