The Chili Cheese Sandwich from Skyline Chili features tender beef chili generously layered over toasted sandwich bread, topped with a generous melting of shredded cheddar cheese, creating a savory, hearty sandwich with a rich, cheesy finish.
Equipments
- Bread knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster or grill
- Saucepan
- Ladle
- Cheese grater
- Serving spatula
- Plate or serving tray
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 8 slices sandwich bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Ground beef is the primary ingredient for the chili and should be fresh for optimal flavor and texture in your sandwich. Use canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to create a rich, tangy base that complements the spices like chili powder, cumin, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Toast sandwich bread until golden to provide a sturdy foundation that holds the warm chili and melted cheddar cheese without becoming soggy. Shredded cheddar cheese should be generously applied to achieve the signature savory, melty finish of the Chili Cheese Sandwich. Your homemade Chili Cheese Sandwich from Skyline Chili copycat menu captures the perfect balance of hearty beef chili and gooey cheese layered over toasted bread for an authentic taste experience.
Instructions
- Finely chop the onion.
- Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spatula.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add chili powder, cumin, cocoa powder, cinnamon, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour in beef broth and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer chili uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While chili simmers, grate cheddar cheese.
- Slice sandwich bread if unsliced.
- Toast bread slices on a toaster or grill until golden.
- Place toasted bread slices on a plate or serving tray.
- Ladle hot chili generously over each slice of toasted bread.
- Top each with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Optionally, broil sandwiches for 1-2 minutes to melt cheese.
- Serve immediately with a spatula.
Substitution
The Chili Cheese Sandwich from Skyline Chili copycat menu offers a flavorful experience with a blend of tender beef chili and melted cheddar cheese. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without compromising taste. If shredded cheddar is unavailable, American cheese or a mild Monterey Jack can provide a similar melty texture. Toast the sandwich bread just until golden to avoid sogginess when the chili is added. Using a well-seasoned saucepan ensures even cooking and prevents the chili from sticking or burning during preparation.
Tips
Ensure you finely chop the onion to release its flavor evenly during sauteing, which enhances the chili's taste. When browning the ground beef, break it up thoroughly to prevent clumps and allow even cooking, draining excess fat to avoid greasiness in your chili. Simmer the chili uncovered for the full 30-40 minutes to thicken the sauce and develop rich flavors; stirring occasionally prevents sticking and burning on the saucepan bottom. For the best melt, grate your cheddar cheese fresh, and consider broiling the assembled sandwich for 1-2 minutes to achieve a gooey, savory finish.
Nutritions
The Chili Cheese Sandwich offers a rich source of protein from the 1 lb of ground beef and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, supporting muscle repair and growth. The dish provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium from crushed tomatoes, along with antioxidants from spices like chili powder and cumin. Carbohydrates from the toasted sandwich bread supply energy, while the moderate fat content comes primarily from cheese and ground beef, contributing to satiety. To balance your meal, consider pairing it with a fresh vegetable side to increase fiber intake and promote digestion.
Storage
To store your Chili Cheese Sandwich, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to preserve moisture and prevent the bread from drying out. Place the wrapped sandwich in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. For reheating, use a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chili is warmed through.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that maintains the chili's hearty texture. Replace cheddar cheese with pepper jack or mozzarella to introduce a different flavor profile and melt quality. Instead of toasting in a toaster, grilling the bread on a skillet with butter adds a crispy, buttery crust. For a smoky twist, add chipotle powder or smoked paprika to the chili seasoning during cooking.
Allergies
Your Chili Cheese Sandwich contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and gluten from the sandwich bread. The ground beef chili mixture also includes ingredients like tomato paste and spices, which may cause sensitivities in some individuals. If you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or certain spices, consider using suitable alternatives or consulting allergen information before enjoying this sandwich.
Why this recipe?
Skyline Chili's Chili Cheese Sandwich combines their iconic Cincinnati-style chili with melted cheddar cheese on a fresh bun, creating a uniquely savory and tangy flavor profile. The sandwich features a generous portion of their signature meat sauce, known for its blend of spices like cinnamon and cloves, providing a distinct taste not found in typical chili dishes. You can replicate this beloved menu item at home by mastering the special chili recipe and layering it with aged cheddar, offering an authentic and satisfying experience. This approach allows chili enthusiasts to enjoy Skyline's signature flavors without leaving their kitchen, making it worth the effort to try.