These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! With juicy beef, melted cheese, and colorful bell peppers all on a soft bun, every bite is a treat.
They’re easy to whip up and perfect for a family dinner. I love to serve them with some crispy fries on the side—because who can resist fries? 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of your dish, giving it that delicious meaty flavor. If you want to make it a bit healthier, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. Personally, I love using grass-fed beef for richer taste.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds crunch and flavor. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can be used too for a sweeter taste. If you’re not a fan of peppers, try using diced mushrooms for a different texture.
Onion: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing and sweetness. If you need a milder flavor, go for sweet onions or even shallots. I often add a bit more onion than the recipe calls for because I love the flavor.
Cheeses: Mozzarella lends creaminess, while provolone adds that classic cheesesteak touch. Feel free to substitute with American cheese for a gooey melt or cheddar for a sharper flavor. My favorite combo is a mix of cheddar and mozzarella!
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce gives a unique depth. If you don’t have any, soy sauce can be a decent alternative. Just use less, as soy sauce is saltier!
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky, but following some simple steps can lead to the best results.
- Start with a hot skillet; this helps to brown the meat properly.
- Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks so it browns evenly, about 5-7 minutes is ideal.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if you have a lot, cook in batches.
- Make sure to drain excess fat after browning for a lighter dish that doesn’t soggify the buns.
By taking your time here, you’ll elevate the flavor and texture of your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
For Assembly:
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche or soft rolls)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking, and then another 5 minutes assembling the sandwiches. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften. Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly.
2. Add Garlic and Ground Beef:
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until it smells yummy. Increase the heat to medium-high and throw in the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
3. Make the Sauce:
Next, stir in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
4. Add Cheese and Toast Buns:
Take the skillet off the heat and mix in the mozzarella and provolone cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Meanwhile, if you like, you can lightly toast your hamburger buns in a skillet or in the oven for a little extra crunch.
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spoon the juicy beef and cheese mixture onto the bottom half of each bun and place the top half on top to complete your sandwich. Serve these warm and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit lighter, so you might want to adjust the seasonings slightly for added depth.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat before assembling your Sloppy Joes. Toast the buns fresh right before serving for the best texture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef and cheese mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, then assemble on fresh buns. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 3 months!
What Cheese Can I Use as a Substitute?
If you don’t have mozzarella or provolone, you can use other melting cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile a bit, but it’s sure to be delicious!
