These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on two classics. Juicy beef, melted cheese, and flavorful veggies all piled into a soft bun come together for a tasty meal!
Who knew Sloppy Joes could be so cheesy? I love serving these with a side of crispy fries; the messier, the better! Your family will be asking for seconds for sure! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of the dish! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy flavor. For a leaner option, go for ground turkey or chicken, which still work well in this recipe.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you prefer something sweeter, use a red or yellow bell pepper. They’re delicious and add a pop of color!
Provolone Cheese: It’s creamy and melts beautifully. If you can’t find provolone, try mozzarella or cheddar. They’ll give a different, but still tasty, twist to your Sloppy Joes.
Hamburger Buns: Brioche buns are my favorite because they’re soft and slightly sweet. If you’re looking for a healthier bun, whole grain or gluten-free options fit well too.
How Do I Ensure the Sloppy Joe Mixture is Perfectly Thick?
Getting that ideal thickness for your sloppy joe mix can be tricky. After adding the liquids, it’s important to let it simmer. That way, flavors marry and excess moisture cooks away.
- Once combined, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it seems too watery, you can simmer it a little longer.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings at the end—adding a bit more salt or pepper can really bring out the flavors!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
- Olive oil for cooking
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they become softened and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic smells amazing!
3. Cook the Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain some off!
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Preheat the Broiler:
While the mixture is simmering, go ahead and preheat your oven’s broiler, so it’s ready for melting the cheese!
6. Prepare the Sandwiches:
After the sloppy joe mixture is thickened, divide it evenly among the hamburger buns. Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each filling.
7. Broil the Sandwiches:
Put the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and place them under the broiler. Broil for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the cheese is melted to perfection, take them out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute! Just be aware that it may be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil when browning it to keep the mixture moist. The flavor will still be delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
If you can’t find provolone, mozzarella cheese works perfectly as a substitute. For a sharper flavor, you can also use cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a little kick. Just make sure to melt it under the broiler.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sloppy joe mixture up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, then assemble with the buns and cheese as directed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the sloppy joe mixture on the stove or in the microwave. You can also toast the buns again for a fresh texture before serving!
