These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic! They’re made with tender beef, gooey cheese, and mixed with sweet onions and peppers all piled high on a bun.
Who wouldn’t love a bite of this messy goodness? With just a few ingredients, it’s a great weeknight meal that tastes like a treat. I can’t get enough of the cheesy, meaty mix—it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This helps create a hearty base for the Sloppy Joes. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. Just be aware they may need a bit more seasoning for flavor.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds a fresh kick. You can swap it for any color bell pepper, like red or yellow, if you prefer a sweeter taste. For a spicier twist, try using jalapeños.
Onion: Small onions provide a nice sweetness. Shallots make a wonderful substitute if you’re looking for a milder onion flavor. You can even skip the onions altogether if needed.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully. For a different flavor, switch to mozzarella or cheddar. Gouda also adds a nice smoky element if you’re feeling adventurous!
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the veggies. Feel free to use vegetable or canola oil instead. Butter also gives a rich taste if you prefer.
How Do I Get My Beef Mixture to Thicken Perfectly?
Thickening your Sloppy Joe filling is crucial for a tasty sandwich. After adding the liquids, simmer the mixture so the flavors combine and the excess moisture evaporates. Follow these helpful steps:
- Let it simmer for at least 5-10 minutes to cook off some liquid.
- If you find it too runny, you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water. This will help it set quickly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Keep the heat at medium so you don’t scorch the bottom, and adjust as needed for the right consistency! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 burger buns or hoagie rolls
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes for cooking and baking. So, in just under half an hour, you can have delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes ready to enjoy!
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 hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they are softened, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick to the pan.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the beef apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink; this should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain some off to keep things from being too greasy.
3. Mix in the Seasonings:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly as it cooks.
4. Preheat the Oven:
While the beef mixture is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it ready to melt the cheese on your sandwiches!
5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Take the bottom half of each bun or roll and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture on top. Place a slice of provolone cheese over the beef for that delicious melty goodness!
6. Bake the Sandwiches:
Carefully place all the open sandwiches on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, cover each sandwich with the top half of the bun. Serve them hot and enjoy your tasty Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes with friends or family! Yum!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, and you may want to add a little extra seasoning since turkey can be milder in flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Provolone Cheese?
If you don’t have provolone cheese on hand, mozzarella cheese is an excellent substitute as it melts well and has a mild flavor. You could also try cheddar cheese for a sharper taste. Just keep in mind that each cheese will slightly alter the flavor profile of your Sloppy Joes!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating—just cover your plate to retain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance. Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the mixture on the stove and assemble the sandwiches with the cheese and buns as directed!
