Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients. Start by slicing the onion and tomato. Chop the lettuce and set everything aside for easy assembly later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef. Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Use a spatula to break the meat apart and mix it with the onions. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cheese. Once the beef is cooked, lay the slices of American cheese over the meat mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt.
Step 5: Toast the Buns. While the cheese is melting, toast the hoagie buns in a separate skillet or in a toaster until golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich. Spread mayonnaise on the inside of the buns. Spoon the chopped beef and cheese mixture generously into each bun. Top with chopped lettuce and slices of tomato.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy! Serve your chopped cheese sandwiches hot, and enjoy every flavorful bite of this NYC classic!