13 Best Cheeses for Roast Beef Sandwich in 2024 [Must Try]

Every roast beef sandwich aficionado knows that a sandwich is only as good as its components, and when it comes to creating the perfect roast beef sandwich, one thing is non-negotiable - the selection of cheese. When describing the romance between roast beef and its accompanying cheese, it's all about balance, about tangoing flavors that harmonize with the rich, succulent roast beef.

So, which cheese holds the crown in this gastronomic kingdom? We are all familiar with the classic contenders like Swiss or Cheddar, but there's a whole universe of melt-in-your-mouth cheeses just waiting to be explored. Today, let's embark on a flavor-packed journey and delve into the world of the best cheeses for roast beef sandwich. Are you ready to sink your teeth into this gloriously cheesy extravaganza? Because I certainly am. Let's dive in!

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A Little Something About Roast Beef Sandwiches

There's a universe of flavors, textures, and tastes, packed in each bite of a well-crafted roast beef sandwich. Tender, juicy slices of roast beef, nestled between two slices of your favorite bread, spiked with condiments, crowned with cheese - it's a love story that needs no introduction.

The Importance of Cheese in a Sandwich

Cheese, in any sandwich, works like the unseen hero of a blockbuster movie. Often understated, but oh-so-essential! It's the gooey, melty delight that holds together your sandwich, adds a creamy texture, and showers it with a burst of flavor. Cheese on your sandwich is like sunshine on a clock - it just makes everything better. Different cheeses lend different flavors and textures, making your roast beef sandwich a canvas for culinary artistry. Let's explore the dairy galaxy and dig deeper into the best cheese for a roast beef sandwich.

Why Roast Beef and Cheese is a Heavenly Combination

Among the pantheon of classic American sandwiches, the roast beef sandwich holds a special spot. And the cheese? It's like the perfect accomplice to the meat. The juicy, savory notes of the roast beef harmonize with the creaminess and richness of the cheese, creating a melody of flavors that dance on the palate.

A roast beef sandwich is like a beautiful piece of music - the bread is the rhythm, the roast beef is the melody, but the cheese…well, the cheese is the harmony. It ties everything together, it's the soul of the sandwich. Whether you favor a traditional choice like Swiss or a daring option such as blue, the best cheese for a roast beef sandwich can take your sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary.

Ready for a gastronomic adventure? Your pass to the best cheese expedition is right here!

13 Best Cheeses for Roast Beef Sandwich in 2024

Selecting the perfect cheese to complement your roast beef sandwich can feel like a culinary puzzle. After all, the cheese you pick plays a pivotal role ensemble of flavors. The cheese not only adds its own flavor profile but also enhances the richness of the roast beef and the crunch of the veggies. Let's unleash the fantastic flavors of these 13 best cheeses which offer an avalanche of taste to any roast beef sandwich.

1. Swiss Cheese: The Creamy Classic

Swiss Cheese is a bone fide crowd-pleaser. It's everything you could ever want in a cheese - it's slightly sweet, mildly tangy, and wonderfully creamy, making it a popular choice for sandwich lovers. What I find irresistible about Swiss cheese is its elasticity, allowing it to melt into a rich and gooey blanket that wraps around the roast beef.

The next time you assemble your roast beef sandwich, don't underestimate the magic of a creamy slice of Swiss cheese. Each bite promises a taste of creaminess that wonderfully enhances the flavor of roast beef, leaving your taste buds craving for more.

While you can unquestionably enjoy Swiss cheese in its raw form, it's cheese alchemy at its best when melted. So, treat yourself by toasting your sandwich until the Swiss cheese has transformed into a molten pool of deliciousness that enriches the flavors of your sandwich.

2. Ciabatta: The Italian Touch

Ah, Ciabatta! This Italian cheese doesn't always get the recognition it deserves in the house of sandwiches. Often overshadowed by its popular counterparts, Ciabatta is rich, creamy, and has a certain tang to it that complements the savory taste of roast beef perfectly.

Pairing roast beef with Ciabatta invites a union of robust flavors that simply scream ‘amore.’ The cheese not only creates a fascinating contrast against the robust flavor of roast beef but also forms a harmonious relationship with the meat that is nothing short of splendid.

Mastering the art of the Ciabatta-roast beef combo can be a little tricky, but when done right, the result is unbelievably satisfying. Just be sure to add thin slices of Ciabatta, allowing the cheese to melt quickly and evenly, embracing the roast beef with its creamy charm.

3. Havarti: A Danish Delight

If you're looking for a cheese variety that can inject some subtle sophistication into your roast beef sandwich, Havarti is your perfect match. This Danish cheese is smooth, and buttery, with a hint of tangy sweetness that you can't help but fall in love with. When this cheese meets a tender piece of roast beef, the result is a masterful collaboration of flavors.

Havarti's creamy texture and mild flavor make it an adaptable option in a roast beef sandwich. But don’t let Havarti’s soft demeanor fool you. As delicate as it might be, it shines brightly, enriching the sandwich with its luscious creaminess, and creating the perfect backdrop for the bold flavors of roast beef.

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4. Blue Cheese: Adventure for the Taste Buds

Be prepared to ascend on a gastronomic journey like no other! Blue cheese, with its strong and pungent flavor profile, is not for the faint-hearted. It offers a kick to the tastebuds, a sharp contrast against the succulence of roast beef.

When smeared generously onto a roast beef sandwich, blue cheese's bold taste creates a concoction of flavors that are rich, intense, and entirely gratifying. This cheese variety might seem intimidating at first, but once you've built a liking for it, every bite sends you on a thrilling flavor ride.

The key with blue cheese is to spread it lightly to ensure its strong flavor doesn’t overpower the richness of the roast beef.

5. Brie: Taste of France

Brie is a French cheese that's mild, creamy, and the epitome of luxury. It’s a testament to the French’s love for indulgent flavors and sure enough, it brings a touch of elegance to your roast beef sandwich.

Brie is like that delicate thread that binds the entire fabric of the sandwich together. It uplifts the flavors of the roast beef, adding a luxurious creaminess that's nothing short of divine. It’s one of those cheeses that you have to experience firsthand to truly capture its essence in a roast beef sandwich.

6. Mozzarella: The Ever-Popular Choice

For lovers of all things classic and homely, the mozzarella and roast beef combination is a duo that's hard to beat. Yes, mozzarella - the ever-favorite, ever-popular cheese - is a fantastic choice for a roast beef sandwich. When baked, it melts into soft, stretching ribbons of ooey-gooey goodness that will make you swoon.

Despite its mild flavor, it provides a comforting creaminess that pairs splendidly with the savory roast beef. It stands quietly in the background, letting the roast beef take center stage while sneakily enhancing every bite with its gentle, creamy texture.

7. Gouda: A Dutch Treat

Gouda cheese, hailing from the Netherlands, is indeed a treat for your palate. With its rich, buttery, and slightly sweet flavor, Gouda makes for a fantastic addition to any roast beef sandwich. There's something about Gouda's creamy texture and mild but distinctive flavor that just pulls you in.

Getting the best of Gouda in your roast beef sandwich is no rocket science. Add a slice or two of Gouda on top of your roast beef, and let the heat from the beef gently melt the cheese. Its nutty sweetness complements the robust, savory roast beef, creating a blend of flavors that are bound to make your mouth water.

Remember, Gouda gets creamier and more flavorful as it melts, so to experience it in all its glory, try heating your sandwich a bit. The result? A sandwich that lets you savor the gooey goodness in every bite.

8. Cheddar: The Cheesy Classic

When you talk about cheeses, you simply cannot ignore Cheddar. This sharp, tangy cheese is an undeniable classic in the cheese realm. Its robust flavor profile pairs like a dream with roast beef, making it a go-to for any roast beef sandwich.

The secret weapon in cheddar's arsenal is its uncanny ability to offer a flavor that is sharp yet not overpowering. The result is a sandwich that carries a creamy and slightly piquant taste, enhancing the flavor of the roast beef manifold.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of Cheddar too. There's a world beyond mild and sharp cheddars, and exploring them can take your sandwich from good to incredible. Smoked cheddar with roast beef, anyone? Yes, please!

9. Provolone: An Italian Masterpiece

If any cheese can claim adaptability as its core strength, it has to be Provolone. This Italian masterpiece beautifully merges with all the flavors of a roast beef sandwich, while also making its distinct presence felt.

When paired with roast beef, Provolone brings a unique depth to the sandwich. It strikes a glorious balance, offering a subtly sweet and slightly piquant flavor that readily syncs up with the robust flavor of the beef. Once melted, its smokey undertone adds an extra dimension to your sandwich, making each bite a culinary adventure.

Remember, Provolone melts beautifully, forming a decadent, irresistible layer around the roast beef. Personally, I would recommend you to try smoked Provolone with roast beef - the result is pure bliss!

10. Pepper Jack: The Spicy Kick

For those who prefer a dash of thrill in their sandwich, Pepper Jack is the cheese to go for. It's basically Monterey Jack cheese gussied up with jalapenos and bell peppers, lending a spicy kick to its otherwise mild flavor profile.

When combined with roast beef, Pepper Jack lends an unexpected but welcome spicy twist. The spiciness of the cheese goes perfectly with the rich flavor of the roast beef, producing a delicious sandwich that's sure to tingle your taste buds.

However, keep in mind that Pepper Jack is not for the faint-hearted. If you're one for a mild sandwich experience, you might want to steer clear. But if the idea of a hot and slightly tangy roast beef sandwich excites you, don't miss out on the Pepper Jack experience!

11. Horseradish Cheese: The Bold Challenger

Horseradish Cheese is like a secret weapon in the world of sandwich cheeses. It's not just cheese; it's an experience. This cheese brings a fiery kick to your palate, ideal for those who love a little adventure in their meals. With its bold, spicy flavor, Horseradish Cheese can elevate a roast beef sandwich from good to unforgettable.

The pungency of Horseradish Cheese is a perfect counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors of roast beef. It cuts through the meat's richness, offering a spicy zing that awakens all your senses. When you bite into a roast beef sandwich with Horseradish Cheese, expect a rollercoaster of flavors where the spiciness of the cheese and the umami of the beef complement each other exquisitely.

Using Horseradish Cheese requires a bit of balance. Too little, and you miss its boldness; too much, and it might overpower the other flavors. Just the right amount creates a tantalizing taste profile that is both invigorating and deeply satisfying.

12. Gorgonzola: The Sophisticated Twist

Gorgonzola, with its rich, earthy, and slightly pungent profile, is a choice for those who appreciate a more sophisticated twist in their sandwiches. This Italian blue cheese adds an incredible depth of flavor that transforms a simple roast beef sandwich into a gourmet delight.

Gorgonzola’s creamy yet crumbly texture complements the tender slices of roast beef, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. Its sharp and distinctive flavor adds an element of surprise, cutting through the richness of the beef and adding a sophisticated edge to every bite.

When using Gorgonzola in a roast beef sandwich, moderation is key. Its strong flavor can be overpowering if used in excess. A few crumbles or thin slices are enough to impart its unique taste without overwhelming the other components of your sandwich. Gorgonzola is a cheese that demands attention, and in the right quantity, it can turn your roast beef sandwich into a culinary masterpiece.

13. Gruyere: Swiss Splendor

Last but far from least, we have Gruyere. This Swiss gem is a little on the pricey side, but the splurge is worth it. Gruyere has a rich, nutty flavor that melts beautifully, enveloping the roast beef to create a lush spectrum of taste that is to die for.

The sweetness of Gruyere is a great contrast to the hearty roast beef, creating a decadent sandwich where no flavor is overwhelming but rather a poetic symphony that dances on your palate.

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Why Cheese Completes the Roast Beef Sandwich?

There's some form of mystic sorcery that happens when you pair a slice of choice cheese with tender roast beef in a sandwich. The result? A delightful explosion of flavor that makes you want to reach for a second serving, then a third. But have you ever paused to consider why cheese completes the roast beef sandwich?

Firstly, it's all about the smooth ensemble of textures. Roast beef in itself is undeniably delicious, but its rich, succulent nature calls for a partner that can soften its robust character. Enter cheese. Its creamy, even melty dimension offers a satisfying counterbalance, making every bite an alluring dance of textures.

Secondly, cheese infuses an extra layer of flavor. Each type of cheese carries a unique personality—some are boldly sharp, some subtly tangy, others delicately sweet. This array of flavors parlays into your sandwich, giving it an identity and ensuring that it's anything but bland.

Lastly, cheese affords a certain creamy richness that bridges the gap between the hefty roast beef and other sandwich ingredients, acting as a binding agent. Without cheese, your sandwich could feel disjointed, with each ingredient seeming to pull in a different direction.

Why High-Quality Cheese Matters for Your Roast Beef Sandwich?

When compiling the ingredients for your roast beef sandwich, it's tempting to grab whatever cheese package is nearest. Resist that urge. The quality of cheese you use in your sandwich is paramount and here's why.

High-quality cheese inevitably translates to superior flavor. With all respect to cheap, mass-produced cheeses, they simply can't compete with the depth of flavor offered by artisanal or high-quality varieties. Using high-quality cheese means adding a level of complexity to your sandwich that general-grade cheeses just can't provide.

Additionally, the texture of cheap cheese is often rubbery and unappetizing, especially when melted. High-quality cheese, on the other hand, melts into a pool of gooey goodness, enriching your sandwich with a texture that’s both comforting and indulgent.

In essence, investing in high-end cheese breathes life into your roast beef sandwich. It's like swapping out a flat, black-and-white picture for a vibrant, colored version. So, go ahead and splurge a little on quality cheese. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you!

How to Blend Different Cheeses for a Unique Roast Beef Sandwich?

Creating a unique and scrumptious roast beef sandwich takes culinary curiosity and open-mindedness. To make the most out of the cheese world's diversity, we should explore numerous possibilities through cheese blending. It's not as daunting as it sounds! Here's how you can blend different cheeses to create a distinctive roast beef sandwich.

1. Pick Your Cheese

Two to three choices usually do the trick. Here's what you should focus on when choosing your cheese blend:

1. Flavor: Mixing cheeses with varying flavors is key. For instance, consider pairing a mild cheese like Mozzarella with a bolder option like Blue Cheese.
2. Texture: Combine cheeses of different textures. Cheddar, being firm and smooth, can be paired with a soft and creamy Brie.

2. Prepare Your Cheese

Grate or thinly slice your selected cheeses. This not only ensures that the cheese melts evenly, but this step is also crucial to achieve that amazing cheese pull we all crave!

3. Layer Your Cheese

Sprinkle or layer your cheeses on the roast beef. Incorporate both cheeses evenly so that each bite ensures a burst of flavor!

4. Melt

Finally, heat your sandwich until the cheese starts to melt. Just remember, patience is key here!

Given, blending different cheeses requires some experimentation. However, it’s definitely a delicious experiment that any cheese enthusiast will enjoy!

To get you started, here's a nifty cheese combo table for your next roast beef cheese blend:

Mild Cheeses	Bold Cheeses
Mozzarella	Blue Cheese
Havarti	Pepper Jack
Brie	Gouda

Don't be afraid to forge your own cheese path! Allow your curiosity to drive your culinary adventures. Whether it's a subtle Havarti-Provolone mix or a spicy Pepper Jack-Blue cheese concoction, dare to make your roast beef sandwich an unforgettable experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

What a delightful ride through the realm of cheeses it has been! Cheese, in its many flavors and forms, truly stands as a co-star, not just a sidekick, in the world of roast beef sandwiches. Each variety, from Ciabatta to Gruyere, spins its own tale on your taste buds – be it creamy, robust, mild, or spicy! And now armed with this guide on the best cheeses for roast beef sandwiches, you're all set to get creative in your sandwich-making endeavors.

Mix and match, try out new combinations, or stick to your old faithful. Ultimately, it is all about what suits your palate and stirs up that delightful mirth only a good sandwich can offer. So cozy up, make your sandwich, and don't forget to tell me about your cheesy adventures – because the world of cheese awaits!