These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! With tender beef, gooey cheese, and sweet peppers all piled high on a soft bun, they’re super tasty and messy—in a good way!
I love how quick they are to whip up! Perfect for when you’re hungry but don’t want to spend the whole evening cooking. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a meal that involves getting a little messy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The base for this dish is ground beef. You can opt for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I prefer a mix of beef for flavor and richness!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it for shallots or omit it entirely.
Green Bell Pepper: These add crunch and a slight bitterness. Red or yellow bell peppers work too for a sweeter taste. You can also try diced mushrooms for a different flavor.
Provolone Cheese: It’s key for that classic cheesesteak flavor. If provolone isn’t available, consider using mozzarella or even cheddar for a different twist. I sometimes mix cheeses for extra creaminess.
Buns: Brioche buns are soft and flaky, perfect for holding the filling. You can use whole wheat buns or hoagie rolls if you prefer a sturdier sandwich. Just ensure they’re toasted!
How Do I Ensure My Sloppy Joes Have Great Flavor?
The key to flavorful Sloppy Joes lies in building layers of taste during cooking. Start with browning the ground beef well; this enhances the flavor. After that, adding the veggies helps create a rich base while they soften and sweeten.
- Cook the beef until browned, then add onions and peppers until they’re soft.
- Don’t forget the garlic! It should be added last to keep its vibrant flavor.
- The mixture of beef broth and spices really brings everything together, so let it simmer. Thicker sauces stick better to your buns!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
For the Buns:
- 4 brioche buns or other sandwich rolls
- Optional: hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. If there’s a lot of fat in the pan, drain it off carefully.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Stir them in and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Include the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, paprika, and add some salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 10 minutes. This will help it thicken up a little.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the mixture is simmering, take another skillet or toaster to toast your brioche buns until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
6. Add Cheese to the Mixture:
Once the beef mixture has thickened, stir in the shredded provolone cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and everything is combined into a cheesy delight.
7. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Spoon the cheesy beef mixture right onto the toasted buns. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top!
8. Time to Serve!
Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes hot with optional hot sauce on the side for that extra kick. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be mindful that it can be a bit drier than beef, so you might want to add a splash more beef broth or a bit of olive oil to ensure it stays moist during cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, allow the beef mixture to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to add in mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños for an extra kick. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything is cooked evenly. For example, mushrooms may need a few extra minutes to soften up.
What Should I Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
These tasty sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with crispy fries, a simple green salad, or coleslaw. For a fun touch, you could also serve with pickle spears or potato chips on the side!
