These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes combine the classic flavors of cheesesteaks with the ease of sloppy joes. Juicy beef, melted cheese, and soft buns come together for a real treat!
What’s better than a sandwich that’s messy and delicious? I love serving these with a side of crunchy chips. Guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 (meat to fat) for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but it will alter the flavor profile.
Green Bell Pepper: Besides green, you can use red, yellow, or orange peppers for sweetness. If you want to skip the peppers, try adding a bit of chopped spinach or kale instead.
Onion: I prefer using yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked. You can substitute with red onions for a sharper taste or shallots for a milder flavor.
Mushrooms: They add a nice umami flavor, but you can totally leave them out or replace them with zucchini if you’re avoiding mushrooms.
Provolone Cheese: A classic choice, but feel free to swap with mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer. For a more intense flavor, aged provolone is great too!
How Do You Make Sure Your Sloppy Joes Are Packed with Flavor?
To elevate the flavors in your Sloppy Joes, focus on cooking the vegetables until they’re soft and fragrant. This builds a strong base for your dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating olive oil in the skillet; this prevents sticking and enhances flavor.
- Sauté the onions and bell peppers first until they’re nice and soft—about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and mushrooms (if using) next—this only needs another few minutes.
- When adding the ground beef, break it up well for even cooking and browning.
- Don’t rush the simmering phase! Letting the mixture cook down will intensify the flavors.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
- Olive oil, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish. That’s just enough time to whip up a delicious, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these ingredients until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes. Keep them moving around in the pan to avoid burning.
2. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Once the onion and bell pepper are softened, toss in the minced garlic and the sliced mushrooms, if you’re using them. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is fragrant and lovely. Your kitchen will smell great!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, raise the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to your skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Stir and let it brown for about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, be sure to drain it off so you get a nice, tasty mix.
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Next, stir in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and add some salt and pepper to taste. Bring this flavorful mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, letting it thicken up nicely. Give it an occasional stir!
5. Melt the Cheese:
When your mixture is nicely thickened, place the slices of provolone cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes. This step adds that perfect cheesy goodness!
6. Toast the Buns and Assemble:
If you like, you can toast your hamburger buns for extra flavor. Once they’re nice and warm, fill each bun generously with the cheesesteak mixture. Don’t be shy with that filling!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes immediately, and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite! They make a fantastic meal for family or friends—everyone will love them!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust any seasoning as needed, since different meats have different flavors!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or chopped mushrooms as the base. Sauté the mushrooms until they reduce their moisture content before adding the broth and sauces. You’ll still get that delicious cheesesteak flavor while keeping it meat-free!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the sloppy joe mixture! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
These sloppy joes are best served hot, right after they’re made! Pair them with a side of crispy fries or potato chips for a classic experience. You can also add toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or extra cheese for a delicious twist!
