These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes combine all your favorite flavors in a messy, fun way! You’ll enjoy juicy beef, melted cheese, and tender peppers packed in a soft bun.
They’re perfect for a quick dinner when you want something hearty and satisfying—plus, who can resist cheesy goodness? I love serving mine with a side of crispy fries! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star! You can substitute turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian choice, crumbled tempeh or mushrooms work great for a similar texture.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add sweetness and crunch. If you’re not a fan of green bell peppers, feel free to use red or yellow bell peppers. Sweet onions or shallots can be a lovely substitute for the onion.
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds a deep umami flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce can be used in a pinch, though it might darken the color of the dish slightly.
Beef Broth: A foundational ingredient that adds moisture. You can swap it for chicken broth or even vegetable broth to keep it light and flavorful.
Cheese: Provolone is classic for cheesesteaks, but feel free to experiment! Cheddar or mozzarella can work just as well, according to your taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Flavor in My Sloppy Joes?
The key to making flavorful sloppy joes lies in layering your ingredients correctly. Start by sautéing the onions and bell peppers until soft. This adds a sweet base of flavor. Cooking the garlic briefly afterward keeps it fragrant and tasty without burning it.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet before adding vegetables, allowing them to soften for about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic for the last minute so it remains aromatic.
- Make sure to brown the beef well for rich flavor, stirring often to break it up.
- Let the mixture simmer to develop the flavors before serving. This helps all the ingredients blend beautifully!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 4 hamburger buns (or potato rolls)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time frying up the veggies and beef, letting the mix simmer, and then assembling your sandwiches. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them together for about 5 minutes, or until they are nice and soft.
2. Add Garlic and Ground Beef:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells wonderful. Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s browned all the way through.
3. Mix in Sauces and Broth:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Now it’s time to add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and beef broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
After simmering, remove the skillet from the heat. Now, take the sloppy joe filling and divide it evenly among the hamburger buns. Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the filling on each sandwich, then cover with the top half of the buns.
5. Optional Broiler Step:
If you like your cheese extra melty and the buns a little toasted, you can put the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for a few minutes. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are ready to serve! Enjoy them hot, and feel free to add any sides you like. Dig in and enjoy this tasty twist on a classic dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and be mindful that these meats tend to dry out more quickly, so you may want to add a bit more broth if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
If you don’t have provolone, other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack work well! Just keep in mind that different cheeses have varying melt characteristics, so choose one based on your flavor preference.
How Should I Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if the mixture seems too dry!
Can I Freeze the Sloppy Joe Filling?
Yes! The sloppy joe filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving on buns.
