If you love the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want the simplicity of a Sloppy Joe, then this recipe is exactly what you're looking for! Our Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes combine the best of both worlds, giving you the savory goodness of sautéed beef, onions, and bell peppers, smothered in melted cheese, all served in a hearty bun. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual weekend gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So keep reading to learn how to make this mouthwatering recipe step by step!
What Are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a delightful twist on two beloved comfort foods: the classic Philly cheesesteak and the all-American Sloppy Joe. While the traditional cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese on a hoagie roll, the Sloppy Joe version swaps thin slices for ground beef, adds in a sweet and tangy sauce, and serves it on a soft sandwich bun. The result is a savory, cheesy, and messy sandwich that’s easy to make but bursting with flavor. It's the perfect fusion of flavor and convenience, with a deliciously gooey texture that's both satisfying and nostalgic.
Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Before you begin making these irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 4 sandwich buns (preferably soft brioche or hamburger buns)
Ingredient List for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe Toppings
To elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, consider adding these optional toppings:
- Pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Sliced pickles for a tangy crunch
- Extra melted cheese on top for an extra gooey bite
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- A dash of hot sauce for those who like some heat
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to customize this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:
- Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish. The flavor will still be savory and delicious.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Cheese options: While provolone is the classic choice for a Philly cheesesteak, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, American cheese, or even pepper jack if you want more spice.
- Buns: Brioche buns are soft and buttery, making them ideal for sloppy sandwiches, but regular hamburger buns, ciabatta rolls, or hoagie rolls also work well.
- Add more veggies: You can add more vegetables to the mix, such as sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or even thinly sliced zucchini for a bit more nutrition.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Push the cooked ground beef to one side of the skillet. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) to the other side. Cook until the veggies are softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir them together with the beef.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined and cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors intensify.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the mixture is ready, place slices of provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Once the cheese is gooey and melted, it's time to assemble the sandwiches.
- Toast the Buns (Optional): While the cheese is melting, you can toast the sandwich buns in a separate skillet or under the broiler for extra crunch. Toasting the buns adds a nice texture contrast to the sloppy filling.
How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet and browning the ground beef.
- Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in seasonings like Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- Add beef broth to deglaze the pan and create a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly, then melt provolone cheese on top.
- Serve the cheesy beef mixture on toasted buns for the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef: Ground beef can become dry and tough if overcooked. Make sure to cook it just until browned and crumbly, then let it simmer in the sauce to absorb the flavors.
- Skipping the veggies: The onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms are essential for capturing the authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor. Don’t skip these ingredients!
- Not using enough cheese: The cheese is what makes these sandwiches extra special, so don’t skimp on it. Be sure to melt enough cheese into the beef mixture for that signature gooeyness.
- Forgetting to toast the buns: Toasting the buns might seem like an extra step, but it helps prevent the sandwich from getting soggy and adds a delightful crunch.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, presentation matters just as much as flavor. Here are some serving tips to make your meal look as amazing as it tastes:
- Serve each Sloppy Joe with a side of crispy fries or a simple green salad to balance out the rich flavors.
- Place a toothpick through the sandwich to hold it together if it’s particularly messy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve the sandwiches on a wooden board or slate platter for a rustic, inviting look.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
These hearty sandwiches are best served hot, straight from the skillet. They pair wonderfully with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple garden salad. If you're looking to impress at a party or gathering, serve the Sloppy Joes as sliders on mini buns so guests can easily enjoy them as finger food. Add pickles, chips, or a dill spear on the side for extra crunch!
Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
- Individual portions: Serve the Sloppy Joes in small cast iron skillets or on mini wooden boards for an eye-catching individual presentation.
- Family-style: Serve the filling in a large skillet or pot and let everyone build their own sandwiches. Provide a variety of toppings so guests can customize their meal.
- Slider-style: For smaller servings, use slider buns and serve the mini sandwiches as part of a game-day spread or casual get-together.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe Tips
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the beef filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet, adding a little broth if needed to loosen it up, and melt the cheese just before serving.
- Double the recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled for a crowd. Just be sure to use a larger skillet or cook the beef in batches.
- Freeze leftovers: The beef mixture freezes well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stove for an easy meal later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, then add the cheese just before serving.
Q: Can I use other types of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used instead of beef. The cooking time will remain the same, but the flavor may vary slightly.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and ensure that all condiments (like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce) are gluten-free.
Q: What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
A: Provolone is traditional, but you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well for that perfect gooey texture.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mashup—combining the bold, hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the ease and messiness of a Sloppy Joe. With simple ingredients, customizable options, and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. Whether you serve them with fries, a salad, or just on their own, these sandwiches are sure to become a family favorite. Don’t wait—give this recipe a try today and enjoy the delicious fusion of two American classics!
PrintPhilly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe
This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe combines the flavors of the classic Philly cheesesteak with the ease of sloppy joes. Juicy ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and gooey melted cheese come together in a savory sandwich, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It's a hearty dish that's both kid-friendly and perfect for casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: 1 sandwich
- Method: 450
- Cuisine: 6g
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Green bell pepper
- Onion
- Garlic
- Beef broth
- Ketchup
- Worcestershire sauce
- Provolone cheese
- Salt & pepper
- Hamburger buns
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in beef broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce; simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Melt provolone cheese into the mixture.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Serve with fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Toast the buns for extra crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
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