Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the ultimate mashup of two comfort food favorites, bringing all the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak into the approachable, messy fun of a sloppy joe. Juicy ground beef, caramelized onions, sautéed bell peppers, and a generous layer of gooey melted cheese come together to create a filling that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. Served on soft, toasted sandwich rolls, these hearty sandwiches are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I still remember the first time I made these for a game night with friends. The smell of sizzling beef and veggies had everyone hovering around the kitchen, and when the sandwiches hit the table, they disappeared almost instantly. The beauty of this recipe is how quickly it comes together without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—swap out the beef for ground turkey or add mushrooms for an extra twist.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a casual family dinner, or a gathering with friends, Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Pair them with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even some onion rings, and you’ve got a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Game day meals
  • Casual gatherings
  • Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Here’s why Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes will become a go-to favorite:

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
  • Comfort Food Classic: Combines the best parts of a cheesesteak and a sloppy joe in one dish.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or adjust the flavors to your liking.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these messy, cheesy sandwiches.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients to create a filling and delicious meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 sandwiches
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • 4 sandwich rolls (or hamburger buns)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef: The base of the recipe, ground beef provides the hearty, savory flavor typical of a cheesesteak.
  • Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully into the mixture for that classic Philly cheesesteak taste.
  • Peppers and Onions: Essential for replicating the flavor profile of a traditional Philly cheesesteak.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and umami to the beef mixture.
  • Beef Broth: Creates a saucy consistency that brings everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes:

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Cook the Beef: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Season the Mixture: Stir the cooked vegetables and beef together. Add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Make it Saucy:

  1. Thicken the Filling: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir until fully incorporated. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens into a saucy consistency.
  2. Melt the Cheese: Lay the provolone slices over the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes. Stir the melted cheese into the beef mixture until evenly combined.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

  1. Toast the Rolls (Optional): Lightly toast the sandwich rolls or buns for extra texture and flavor.
  2. Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe filling onto the bottom halves of the rolls. Top with the remaining halves and serve immediately.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes can be served in various ways:

  • Classic Sandwich: Serve on toasted sandwich rolls with a side of potato chips or fries.
  • Open-Faced Style: Spoon the filling over toasted bread or rolls for a lighter option.
  • With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
  • Game Day Spread: Serve alongside nachos, wings, and other party foods for the ultimate game day feast.

Additional Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Here are some tips to ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes turn out perfectly:

  • Use Lean Beef: For less grease, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey.
  • Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the sandwich rolls helps prevent them from getting soggy.
  • Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the filling as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to your liking.
  • Experiment with Cheese: If you don’t have provolone, try mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese for a different flavor.
  • Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Here are 10 variations you can try for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes:

  1. Mushroom Philly Sloppy Joes: Add sliced mushrooms to the vegetable mix for an earthy flavor.
  2. Cheddar Philly Sloppy Joes: Swap provolone for sharp cheddar cheese for a tangy twist.
  3. Turkey Philly Sloppy Joes: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
  4. Spicy Philly Sloppy Joes: Add diced jalapeños and a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
  5. BBQ Philly Sloppy Joes: Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
  6. Bacon Philly Sloppy Joes: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for added richness.
  7. Philly Sloppy Joe Bowls: Serve the filling over rice or mashed potatoes instead of sandwich rolls.
  8. Veggie Philly Sloppy Joes: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian version.
  9. Cheesesteak-Stuffed Peppers: Use the filling to stuff bell peppers and bake for a low-carb option.
  10. Philly Sloppy Joe Sliders: Serve the filling on mini slider buns for a fun party appetizer.

Freezing and Storage for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

  • Freezing: The filling can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
  • Storage: Store leftover filling in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes easier:

  • Large skillet or sauté pan – Essential for cooking the ground beef and veggies evenly.
  • Flat griddle – Perfect for toasting buns or melting cheese directly on top of the meat mixture.
  • Mandoline slicer – For thinly slicing onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables to achieve even cooking.
  • Bench scraper – Makes it easy to transfer chopped vegetables or cooked meat from the cutting board to the pan.
  • Cheese grater – For freshly shredding cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a better melt.
  • Burger press (optional) – Helps shape and flatten meat portions if you want a more uniform look before cooking.
  • Non-stick spatula – Ideal for stirring the meat mixture and ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
  • Slow cooker (optional) – Can be used to keep the meat mixture warm for serving at parties or events.
  • Basting brush – Great for buttering and toasting hoagie rolls or buns for added flavor.
  • Sandwich press or panini maker (optional) – Can be used to press the assembled sandwiches for a crispy, melty finish.

Frequently Asked Questions for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

  1. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
  2. What type of rolls should I use?
    Soft sandwich rolls, hamburger buns, or even hoagie rolls work well.
  3. Can I use a different type of meat?
    Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles are great substitutes.
  4. What other cheeses can I use?
    Mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese are great alternatives to provolone.
  5. How can I make this recipe healthier?
    Use lean ground meat, whole-grain rolls, and add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
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Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes


  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

 

 
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the best of two classic dishes. With tender, flavorful beef, melty cheese, and soft rolls, these sandwiches are perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a game day party, or just looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of Philly cheesesteak in a fun, sloppy joe style!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added tanginess)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup beef broth
  • 4 slices provolone cheese (or 1 cup shredded provolone)
  • 4 soft sandwich buns (toasted if preferred)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best, but you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Provolone Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and provides the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor. Substitute with mozzarella or American cheese if preferred.
  • Bell Peppers and Onion: These sautéed veggies add sweetness and crunch, making the sandwich hearty and flavorful.
  • Beef Broth: Adds richness to the sauce. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Brings out the savory, umami flavors in the beef.

Instructions

Cook the Meat and Veggies:

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened and slightly caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Ground Beef: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Season and Add Sauces: Stir the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard (if using) into the beef mixture. Sprinkle the flour over the meat and mix well to coat evenly.
  2. Add Beef Broth: Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to combine. Simmer the mixture for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

  1. Melt the Cheese: Turn off the heat and lay slices of provolone cheese over the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Alternatively, you can mix shredded provolone directly into the beef.
  2. Toast the Buns: If desired, lightly toast the sandwich buns in a dry skillet or under the broiler for added texture.
  3. Serve: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted buns. Serve immediately and enjoy!

 

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 500-550 kcal
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 25g

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a mouthwatering fusion of two all-time favorites, bringing the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak to the comfort of a sloppy joe. Featuring tender, seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and gooey melted cheese, all piled onto soft, toasted buns, this dish is the ultimate comfort food indulgence.

Quick and easy to prepare, these sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or game-day gatherings. You can even customize the recipe with your favorite cheese (provolone, American, or cheddar) and add mushrooms for an extra hearty twist. Serve with a side of fries, chips, or a crisp salad to complete the meal.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike, delivering big, cheesy flavor in every bite.

I’d love to see how your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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