Game Day Eats with a Twist: Wild Smoked Salmon Cheesesteak by Chef Kahlil Floyd
In Philly, cheesesteaks are more than food — they’re part of our culture, our sports rituals, and our city pride. So what happens when you take this iconic sandwich and give it a bold, unexpected twist? Enter Chef & Owner Kahlil Floyd of The Tattooed Pig (in Media and Aston, PA) and Plum Caterers, who teamed up with Sugartown Smoked Specialties to create a Wild Smoked Salmon Cheesesteak that’s ready to steal the game day spotlight.
Meet the Chef: Kahlil Floyd
Chef Kahlil isn’t afraid to break the rules. Known for his hearty, flavor-packed BBQ at The Tattooed Pig and his refined event menus with Plum Caterers, he brings the same creativity and passion to every dish. His style blends comfort food with finesse — and this cheesesteak proves it.
The Cheesesteak Reinvented
Instead of the classic ribeye, Chef Kahlil reaches for Sugartown’s Hot Smoked Wild Alaskan Salmon — tender, smoky, and rich with flavor. The salmon is flaked into juicy pieces, layered on a toasted roll, then topped with melty cheese and sautéed peppers and onions. The result? A cheesesteak that nods to tradition while standing out as something completely fresh.
Think Philly meets coastal cuisine — smoky, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent.
Why It Works For Game Day
Game day food is all about big flavors, easy eating, and crowd appeal. The Wild Smoked Salmon Cheesesteak checks all the boxes. It’s:
- Portable enough to eat while yelling at the TV.
- Packed with protein to keep you fueled through overtime.
- A conversation starter that takes your spread from basic to bold.
Pair it with your favorite cold beer, a side of chips, or even some classic BBQ sides from The Tattooed Pig, and you’ve got a lineup that wins every time.
Where Philly Flavor Meets Innovation
Sugartown’s Hot Smoked Wild Alaskan Salmon brings the heart of the recipe to life. It’s slow-smoked for a bold, savory bite that pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese and sweet peppers. For fans who want to serve something unforgettable this season, this is more than just a sandwich — it’s a Philly tradition remixed.
Wild Smoked Salmon Cheesesteak
A Philly classic gets a gourmet twist with Sugartown Smoked Specialties’ Hot Smoked Wild Alaskan Salmon. Perfect for game day, tailgates, or any time you’re craving something hearty with a touch of elegance.
Yield: 1 Cheesesteak
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green pepper, thinly sliced
- Splash of water (for steaming)
- 6–8 oz Hot Smoked Wild Alaskan Salmon, cut into strips
- ½ cup shredded cheese blend (cheddar, jack & mozzarella)
- 3 slices American cheese
- 1 long hoagie roll, split lengthwise (Chef Kahlil recommends the Tuscan Hoagie Roll from Liscio's Bakery)
- A handful of chopped romaine lettuce (or your favorite greens)
- 2–3 tomato slices
- The Tattooed Pig’s Chipotle sauce (available in store at the Media & Aston locations) or the aioli of your choice
Instructions
- Cook the veggies. Heat a flat top, griddle, or large pan over medium-high heat. Melt the butter and add sliced onions and green peppers. Add a splash of water to help the onions steam and soften. Cook until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Warm the Hot Smoked Wild Alaskan Salmon. Add strips of smoked wild salmon to the pan, on top of the onion-pepper mixture. Gently mix to warm through - avoid over-stirring so the salmon keeps its texture. Since Sugartown’s Hot Smoked Wild Alaskan Salmon is already fully cooked, you just need to warm it thoroughly.
- Melt the cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar jack and mozzarella over the salmon and veggies. Top with slices of American cheese. Fold the mixture together slightly and let it melt until gooey and combined.
- Prepare the roll. Split the hoagie roll with a serrated knife. Line with romaine lettuce and tomato slices.
- Assemble and finish. Transfer the smoked wild salmon–cheese–veggie mixture into the prepared roll. Serve hot and enjoy your smoked salmon twist on a Philly classic!
Pro Tip: Chef Kahlil drizzled his cheesesteak with his Tattooed Pig chipotle sauce (available in store in Media & Exton) for a little kick. Feel free to make your Wild Smoked Salmon Cheesesteak your own, by using your favorite sauces.
Try it yourself: Grab a pack (or two) of Sugartown’s Hot Smoked Wild Salmon, pick up your favorite rolls, and channel your inner Tattooed Pig. Whether you’re tailgating at the Linc or hosting friends at home, this is the cheesesteak your crew won’t stop talking about.
Sugartown Smoked Specialties — Made for Sharing. Made for Game Day.
Sugartown Smoked Specialties bring the perfect smoky flavor any time you’re putting food on the table! From celebrations with friends to simple weeknight dinners, from brunches to lunchboxes, our smoked meat, cheese & seafood make it easy and delicious. Our blog is full of recipes for any occasion. Read more here and follow us on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest for inspiration, how-to videos and much more!