How does one create the perfect cheesesteak? Many professional and home chefs begin with a hearty helping of Cooper® Sharp. I had a chance to chat with Cooper cheese’s Brand Manager, Michelle Spoerl, to learn more about why this offering is dominating the space.
“Cooper Sharp—available in White 5 lb, Yellow 5 lb, Black Pepper 5 lb, White 30 oz, and White Shred—is often considered one of the best options for cheesesteaks because of its creamy texture, meltability, and rich flavor,” Michelle told me. “Some cheeses melt. Cooper Sharp transforms. It gets ultra-creamy, ultra-gooey, and perfectly coats every bite of beef—no weird separation, no greasy mess. Just pure, melty magic.”
Soft yet firm, creamy yet structured—Cooper Sharp holds its own on a sandwich. It melts like a dream but still gives consumers that satisfying bite, making every cheesesteak a true indulgence.
“Cooper Sharp isn’t shy. It brings a smooth, rich, slightly tangy sharpness that enhances the steak instead of overpowering it. Every sandwich bite is a perfect balance of beefy, cheesy goodness,” Michelle continued. “Cheesesteak lovers in the Northeast know—Cooper Sharp is the cheese of choice. A staple in the Philly cheesesteak scene, it’s beloved by locals and cheesesteak purists alike.”
One look at the Cooper cheese social channels and it’s evident that consumers and foodservice operators alike are passionate about Cooper Sharp for their beloved cheesesteaks. More than 300 restaurants in the Northeast specifically mention Cooper in their menus, according to Michelle.
“In a high-volume foodservice setting, chefs appreciate how consistently well Cooper Sharp melts into the sandwich, creating that iconic cheesesteak experience,” Michelle said.
Cooper Sharp is the same rich, creamy, ultra-melty cheese home cooks would find in their favorite cheesesteak shop, trusted by generations. Whether they grab it freshly sliced from the deli or a loaf to slice at home, Cooper Sharp brings the flavor, nostalgia, and melt that make every homemade cheesesteak a masterpiece.
Beyond the classic cheesesteak, Cooper Sharp’s smooth, creamy melt makes burgers juicier, grilled cheese sandwiches gooier, and mac and cheese downright irresistible—one cheese, endless possibilities.
“Consumers love Cooper and get excited when they see it at the deli, and Cooper brings that loyal following to retailers and foodservice operators,” Michelle pointed out. “A robust marketing plan, with the online store, retail, and restaurant locators, ensures fans know where to find Cooper, driving consumers to purchase.”
The Cooper cheese brand also maintains an active and engaging social media presence across TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn. By partnering with popular influencers and chefs, Cooper highlights mouthwatering cheesesteaks and other delicious recipes, expanding its reach and reinforcing its reputation.
“Cooper cheese has expanded our partnerships, becoming the official cheese of the Philadelphia Union professional soccer team and forming a partnership with Philadelphia Eagles star player Cooper DeJean. These initiatives strengthen Cooper’s connection to the local community and reinforce its status as the go-to cheese for Philly’s most iconic sandwich,” Michelle added.
Cooper cheese is manufactured with the needs of both retailers and foodservice operators in mind. Its cheese is available in a variety of convenient forms—loaves and pre-shred—making it easy to use and serve in applications beyond cheesesteaks.
Attendees of the upcoming IDDBA show June 1–3 will get a closer look at everything Cooper has to offer, so be sure to mark your calendars!
