There’s no denying it—Philly cheesesteak is one of the most beloved sandwiches in American food culture. But what type of bread is used for Philly cheesesteak? The answer is just as important as the steak and cheese. The perfect roll holds everything together, soaks up the juices, and delivers the ultimate bite.
Traditional cheesesteaks rely on hoagie-style rolls, specifically Amoroso or Liscio’s, which are soft yet sturdy enough to handle all that delicious filling. But what makes them special? Can you use a different type of bread? And if you’re making a homemade cheesesteak, what should you look for in a roll?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the best bread for Philly cheesesteaks, explore alternative options, and even share expert tips on getting that perfect bite.
For more classic sandwich inspiration, check out this guide to making the perfect garlic bread for sandwiches. Now, let’s dive in!
The Role of Bread in an Authentic Philly Cheesesteak
Why Bread Matters for a Classic Philly Cheesesteak
You might think the star of a Philly cheesesteak is the steak, but without the right bread, you won’t get that authentic taste and texture. The perfect roll does three key things:
Holds everything together – It should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the steak, cheese, and toppings without falling apart.
Soaks up the juices – A good roll absorbs just enough steak drippings to add flavor without becoming soggy.
Adds to the texture – Soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside—this balance is crucial.
A flimsy, overly soft bun will collapse under the weight of the fillings, while a tough, crusty roll makes it harder to bite into. The goal? A light, chewy texture that enhances the sandwich without overpowering the flavors.
“A great Philly cheesesteak roll isn’t just a container—it’s an essential ingredient that completes the sandwich.”
Traditional vs. Modern Bread Choices
For decades, what type of bread is used for Philly cheesesteak? had a simple answer: Amoroso’s rolls. This legendary Philadelphia bakery has been supplying cheesesteak shops with their signature rolls for generations.
However, in recent years, other bakeries like Liscio’s and Sarcone’s have gained popularity, offering slight variations in texture and flavor. While Amoroso’s remains the gold standard, many shops experiment with different hoagie rolls to add their own twist.
On the other hand, some modern versions of cheesesteak sandwiches swap traditional hoagie rolls for options like brioche buns, French bread, or even ciabatta. While these alternatives work, they create a different eating experience—sometimes softer, sometimes crispier, but not quite the classic Philly style.
So, does the bread really make a difference? Absolutely. The right roll ensures the sandwich feels balanced, with every bite packed with flavor. In Part 2, we’ll take a deep dive into the most traditional bread used for Philly cheesesteaks and why it works so well.
The Traditional Bread for Philly Cheesesteak
Why Amoroso Rolls Are the Gold Standard
If you ask any Philadelphia native what type of bread is used for Philly cheesesteak, the answer is almost always Amoroso rolls. These iconic rolls have been a staple of the city’s cheesesteak culture for decades.
So, what makes them perfect for a cheesesteak?
🥖 Soft, Yet Sturdy: The interior is light and airy, allowing it to soak up juices without falling apart. Meanwhile, the slightly crisp crust gives the sandwich structure.
🥖 Mild Flavor: The subtle taste of Amoroso rolls enhances the cheesesteak without overpowering the steak and cheese.
🥖 Perfect Size: At about 12 inches long, these rolls can hold plenty of filling without becoming too bulky or difficult to eat.
“A great Philly cheesesteak isn’t just about steak and cheese—it’s about the perfect roll that holds it all together.”
However, if you’re outside Philadelphia, finding Amoroso rolls can be a challenge. That’s why many restaurants and home cooks turn to similar alternatives.
Can You Use Other Hoagie Rolls?
While Amoroso’s is the gold standard, other bakeries make excellent hoagie rolls that work just as well. Some popular choices include:
Liscio’s Bakery Rolls: Similar to Amoroso’s, these rolls are slightly denser but still soft inside.
Sarcone’s Bakery Rolls: These have a chewier crust and are often used in high-end cheesesteak shops.
Generic Hoagie Rolls: As long as the roll is soft inside with a light crust, it can work well for a homemade cheesesteak.
“If you can’t get Amoroso rolls, go for any hoagie roll with a soft interior and just enough crust to hold up.”
How to Choose the Best Bread for a Homemade Cheesesteak
What to Look for in a Good Cheesesteak Roll
If you’re making a Philly cheesesteak at home, picking the right bread is just as important as choosing the steak and cheese. Here’s what to look for:
Soft Yet Sturdy Texture: The bread should be soft enough to bite into easily but strong enough to hold steak, cheese, and toppings without breaking apart.
✔️ Light, Slightly Crisp Crust: A roll that’s too tough will make the sandwich hard to eat, while one that’s too soft won’t provide enough structure.
✔️ Mild Flavor: The roll should complement the steak and cheese, not compete with them. Avoid breads with strong flavors like sourdough or sweet brioche.
If you can’t find Amoroso or Liscio’s rolls, French baguettes, Italian sub rolls, or even ciabatta can work in a pinch. Just make sure they’re not too crusty!
Toasted or Not? The Great Debate
Some cheesesteak purists argue that a true Philly cheesesteak should never be toasted because the soft roll is part of the experience. However, others prefer a lightly toasted roll to add crunch and prevent sogginess.
🔥 Reasons to Toast:
- Helps keep the sandwich from getting soggy.
- Adds a slight crispiness that some people enjoy.
- Works well if you’re using a roll that’s slightly too soft.
❄️ Reasons to Skip Toasting:
- Traditional cheesesteaks are served on soft, untoasted rolls.
- Toasting can make the bread too crunchy, changing the texture of the sandwich.
- If your roll is fresh, it shouldn’t need toasting.
“Want the best of both worlds? Lightly toast only the inside of the roll for extra structure while keeping the outside soft.”
By now, you know exactly what type of bread is used for Philly cheesesteak and how to choose the best one for your homemade version. But what if you want to get creative? In Part 4, we’ll look at alternative breads and unique twists on the classic cheesesteak roll!
Alternative Breads for Philly Cheesesteak
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options
For those with dietary restrictions or looking for a lower-carb alternative, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a Philly cheesesteak without traditional hoagie rolls.
🥖 Gluten-Free Hoagie Rolls: Many bakeries now offer gluten-free hoagie rolls that mimic the texture of traditional Amoroso rolls. Look for brands with a soft interior and a light crust to avoid crumbling.
🥬 Lettuce Wraps: If you’re skipping bread altogether, a crisp lettuce wrap can hold the steak and cheese while keeping things fresh and low-carb. Romaine or iceberg lettuce works best due to their sturdy texture.
🧀 Cheesesteak-Stuffed Peppers: Another creative twist is using bell peppers as a natural “bun.” Roast or lightly grill them before stuffing them with steak, onions, and cheese.
“Even if you can’t have traditional rolls, you can still enjoy a delicious cheesesteak with creative bread alternatives!”
Creative Twists on the Classic Cheesesteak Bread
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is served on a hoagie roll, some variations bring a new and exciting spin to the dish.
Brioche Buns: For a slightly sweeter, buttery twist, brioche buns create a rich and indulgent version of the cheesesteak.
🥖 Ciabatta: If you love a bit of crunch, ciabatta bread offers a firmer bite and a slightly rustic texture that soaks up all the steak juices.
🥖 French Baguette: A thin, crispy baguette creates a fusion between a cheesesteak and a French dip sandwich. It’s great if you love a crispy exterior!
🥖 Texas Toast: For an extra cheesy and buttery experience, using thick Texas toast adds crunch and soaks up extra cheese sauce.
“The beauty of a cheesesteak? You can make it your own. Whether you go classic or creative, it’s all about balancing flavors and textures.”
Expert Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Roll
Secrets from Philadelphia Chefs and Bakers
What type of bread is used for Philly cheesesteak? According to top Philadelphia cheesesteak makers, the answer is simple: the bread should never overshadow the filling—it should complement it. Here are some insider tips:
🥖 Always Go Fresh: A fresh roll makes a huge difference. Day-old bread gets too chewy or dry, making the sandwich harder to eat.
🔥 Warm It Up: Even if you don’t toast it, slightly warming the roll makes it softer and helps absorb the flavors of the steak and cheese.
💧 Steam for Softness: If your roll feels too firm, wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave it for 10 seconds to soften it up.
🍞 Pick the Right Size: A 10 to 12-inch roll is ideal—it holds enough filling without overwhelming the bread-to-filling ratio.
“A cheesesteak is all about balance. The roll should never be too chewy or too soft—it should hug the ingredients perfectly.”
Avoiding Common Mistakes When Choosing Bread
Even with the best steak and cheese, the wrong bread choice can ruin a cheesesteak. Here’s what to avoid:
✅ Too Crunchy: Baguettes are often too hard, making bites difficult and causing fillings to spill out.
✅ Too Flimsy: Soft rolls absorb steak juices too quickly, falling apart and making a messy sandwich.
Sweet Breads: Brioche and Hawaiian rolls can make the sandwich too sweet, overpowering the savory steak and cheese flavors.
By following these tips, you’ll always get the perfect balance of texture and taste in your cheesesteak!
FAQs
What Is the Best Bread for a Philly Cheesesteak?
The best answer to what type of bread is used for Philly cheesesteak? is Amoroso rolls. These classic hoagie-style rolls are soft inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and sturdy enough to hold all the steak, cheese, and juices without falling apart. If you can’t find Amoroso’s, Liscio’s hoagie rolls or Sarcone’s rolls are great alternatives.
Can I Use a Baguette for a Philly Cheesesteak?
While a baguette might seem like a good idea, it’s not the best choice. The thick, crunchy crust makes it harder to bite into, and the texture isn’t quite right for an authentic cheesesteak experience. However, if you like extra crunch, a soft French roll or Italian sub roll could work better.
How Do I Keep My Cheesesteak Roll from Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy bread, follow these tips:
Lightly toast the inside of the roll—this creates a barrier between the bread and the juices.
Don’t overload with too much sauce or oil—balance is key.
Eat it fresh! Cheesesteaks taste best when served immediately.
Where Can I Buy Authentic Philly Cheesesteak Rolls Outside of Philadelphia?
If you’re outside Philly, you can order Amoroso rolls online from specialty food retailers. Many grocery stores also carry hoagie rolls that are close to the real thing. If all else fails, visit a local bakery and ask for a soft Italian or sub roll with a light crust.
Conclusion: The Secret to the Perfect Cheesesteak Bread
At this point, it’s clear that what type of bread is used for Philly cheesesteak makes a huge difference in both taste and texture. Not only does the right bread hold all the fillings together, but it also enhances the overall eating experience. A soft-yet-sturdy hoagie roll is essential, ensuring the steak and cheese shine without overpowering the sandwich.
While Amoroso rolls are the traditional go-to, there are also plenty of great alternatives. For instance, Liscio’s and Sarcone’s rolls offer similar textures and flavors. However, the key is to find a roll that is light inside, slightly crisp outside, and fresh enough to absorb the flavors without falling apart. Whether you stick to tradition or experiment with a creative twist, choosing the right bread will always take your cheesesteak to the next level.
So, the next time you’re making a cheesesteak at home, keep in mind that the bread is just as important as the steak and cheese! Therefore, don’t be afraid to try different rolls, but always aim for the perfect balance of softness and structure.
Looking for even more sandwich inspiration? Check out our other recipes for delicious hoagies and subs! 🥖🔥
