These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! Ground beef, creamy cheese, and bell peppers come together on a soft bun for a tasty meal.
What’s not to love? These sloppy, cheesy sandwiches are perfect for busy nights. I always make extra so no one leaves the table hungry—because trust me, they’ll want more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the main protein for your sloppy joes. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken work well too. I prefer lean ground beef for less grease.
Onion & Bell Pepper: These add great flavor and texture. You could swap in red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter taste. If you’re short on bell peppers, use extra onions instead.
Provolone cheese: This cheese gives an authentic Philly cheesesteak taste. If you can’t find provolone, try mozzarella or even cheddar for a different, but still delicious, flavor.
Worcestershire sauce: It’s essential for adding depth. If you’re looking for a substitute, soy sauce can work in a pinch, but adjust the salt since it’s saltier. I always keep Worcestershire on hand for its unique flavor!
How Do I Properly Sauté the Vegetables?
Sautéing your onion and bell pepper properly adds layers of taste to your dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they’re soft. Keep stirring occasionally.
- When they’re tender, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant; don’t burn it!
These steps ensure your veggies are perfectly sweet and caramelized, enhancing the overall flavor of your sloppy joes.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sloppy Joes:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 to 6 hamburger buns
Optional Garnishes:
- sliced jalapeños
- pickled peppers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or casual get-togethers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, or until they have softened nicely. This will help build a flavorful base for your sloppy joes!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and give it a good stir. Cook for another minute, just until the garlic smells wonderful and fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cook the Beef:
Now it’s time to ramp up the heat! Increase the skillet’s temperature to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep your dish nice and light.
4. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will help thicken the mixture just enough to hold it all together.
5. Melting the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the top of your beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes. The cheese will melt beautifully, adding that delicious cheesy goodness that makes these sloppy joes special!
6. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Grab your hamburger buns and spoon the cheesy beef mixture generously onto each one. Feel free to pile it on high—these sloppy joes are meant to be messy and fun!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes immediately! If you like, top them with optional garnishes like sliced jalapeños or pickled peppers for a little extra kick. Dig in and enjoy a deliciously unique twist on a classic favorite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be mindful that these meats can cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out. You may want to add a bit more beef broth to keep the mixture juicy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of broth to restore some moisture!
Can I Freeze the Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Yes, you can! Allow the cheesy beef mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What Other Cheese Can I Use?
If you want to switch up the cheese, Swiss, cheddar, or American cheese can all work wonderfully as alternatives to provolone. Just ensure to melt it properly for that gooey cheesy goodness!
