There’s something undeniably fun about merging two beloved classics into one mouthwatering meal. Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes take the best elements of a juicy Philly cheesesteak—tender seasoned beef, sweet peppers, and gooey provolone—and wrap them in the comforting, saucy embrace of a sloppy joe. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, a cooking time of about 20 minutes, and a brief 5-minute rest before serving, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing friends at a potluck, these sandwiches bring a playful twist to lunch or dinner that’s bound to elicit smiles and requests for seconds.
Crafted with simple, accessible ingredients and designed for beginner cooks, this dish highlights the harmony of flavors in every bite. Ground beef simmers alongside vibrant onions and green bell peppers, all coated in a tangy blend of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and steak sauce. A quick cornstarch slurry transforms the mixture into a thick, luscious gravy that clings to each bun. Topped with slices of provolone and briefly broiled until melted and bubbly, every sandwich delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a wave of savory richness. At only 450 calories per serving, it strikes a delicious balance between indulgence and practicality. Get ready to dive into a dinner that feels like a special treat yet comes together in a flash!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Before you fire up the skillet, let’s get acquainted with the heart of this recipe: the ingredients that bring balanced flavors and textures. Each component plays a unique role, from the foundational richness of the beef to the melty finish of provolone. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef
Provides the hearty base and rich, meaty flavor. Opt for an 80/20 blend for a perfect balance of juiciness and flavor.
- Olive oil
Helps to coat the skillet and ensures the beef browns evenly. Delivers a hint of fruitiness that enhances the overall profile.
- Onion
Adds sweetness and subtle pungency when sautéed. The natural sugars caramelize and deepen the savory base.
- Green bell pepper
Brings a mild, crisp freshness that cuts through the richness. Offers vibrant color and a slight vegetal crunch.
- Ketchup
Introduces a sweet-tart tomato dimension. Balances the savory notes and contributes to the signature sloppy joe texture.
- Worcestershire sauce
Offers a savory-malty punch with hints of tamarind and anchovy. Elevates umami depth in every bite.
- Steak sauce
Deepens complexity with tangy, slightly smoky undertones. Works alongside Worcestershire to mimic authentic Philly seasoning.
- Cornstarch
Acts as a thickening agent to create a glossy, clingy sauce. Ensures the beef mixture holds together nicely on the bun.
- Beef broth
Forms the liquid foundation for the cornstarch slurry. Infuses extra savory richness and moisture.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for final seasoning. Adjust to taste to highlight all the other flavors.
- Hamburger buns
Serve as the perfect vessel for this saucy filling. Soft and sturdy, they cradle the sloppy goodness.
- Provolone cheese
Melts into creamy, stretchy goodness. Provides that unmistakable Philly cheesesteak finish with a mild, buttery note.
HOW TO MAKE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Let’s dive into the cooking process: you’ll be browning meat, sautéing veggies, building layers of flavor, and finishing with a quick broil to achieve that perfect cheesy top. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a plateful of irresistible sandwiches ready in no time.
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess fat pooling in the skillet, carefully drain it off to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables, stirring frequently, until they soften and begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the overall flavor.
3. Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and steak sauce. Mix well to ensure every morsel of beef and vegetable is evenly coated with the tangy-sweet blend. Let it bubble for a minute so the flavors meld.
4. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in beef broth to form a smooth slurry. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir to combine. Allow it to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Preheat your oven to broil. Arrange the hamburger buns on a baking sheet, cut side up, ready to receive the melty topping.
6. Spoon the prepared beef mixture onto the bottom halves of each bun, creating an even layer. Top each with a slice of provolone cheese, draping it to cover the filling completely.
7. Broil the sandwiches for 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. You want the cheese to become melted and bubbly without crossing into burnt territory.
8. Remove from the oven and gently cover with the top halves of the buns. Serve immediately while still hot and gooey.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Once your sandwiches are piled high with melty provolone and savory beef, it’s time to think about presentation and perfect pairings. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a laid-back game-night spread, these serving ideas will help you elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes into a memorable feast.
- Pair with crispy fries or sweet potato wedges
A side of golden oven-baked fries or wedges offers a satisfying crunch. Season them with garlic powder and a sprinkle of Parmesan to echo the savory notes in your sloppy joes.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad
Balance the indulgence with a simple mixed greens salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite feel lighter.
- Offer a pickle bar
Provide an assortment of pickles—dill spears, bread-and-butter slices, or spicy pickled jalapeños. Their bright acidity and briny snap complement the creamy, saucy filling.
- Add a homemade slaw
A crunchy coleslaw dressed in a light, vinegar-based dressing introduces texture and a subtle tang. It layers on freshness when spooned atop the sloppy joe filling.
HOW TO STORE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
After enjoying these delectable sandwiches, you might find yourself with extras—and that’s a great problem to have! Proper storage is key to preserving both flavor and texture, so your leftovers taste just as amazing as they did freshly made. Here are your best options for keeping your sloppy joes in prime condition.
- Refrigerator Storage
Transfer any leftover beef mixture to an airtight container once it cools to room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems too thick.
- Freezing for Longer Shelf Life
For extended storage, portion the cooled filling into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out excess air. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Separate Buns and Filling
To prevent soggy bread, store buns in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them separately. Assemble just before serving to keep buns soft and fluffy.
- Reheat with Mozzarella or Cheddar Twist
When reheating, switch up the cheese by stirring in shredded mozzarella or cheddar right before the final melt. Cover the skillet or microwave-safe dish briefly for a quick melt and renewed cheesiness.
CONCLUSION
Thank you for joining me on this delicious journey through Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes! We’ve explored how simple ground beef, vibrant veggies, and a flavor-packed sauce come together to create a fun, satisfying meal. From an easy 10-minute prep to a quick broil that melts the cheese just right, this recipe offers the perfect balance of convenience and scrumptiousness. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, these sloppy joes are designed to make cooking approachable without skimping on taste. With an estimated 450 calories per serving and flexible options for spice levels or leaner meats, it’s a versatile dish that caters to different preferences and dietary needs.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder, or save it digitally so you can whip up these sandwiches whenever the craving strikes. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to troubleshoot any questions you might have. I’d love to hear how your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes turn out—drop a comment, share your serving hacks, or ask for tips if you hit a snag. Your feedback helps make this community even more flavorful and fun. Happy cooking, and here’s to many cheesy, saucy bites ahead!
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Description
Combine the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the fun of sloppy joes! Savory beef, melted provolone, and colorful veggies come together for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and steak sauce. Mix well until the beef and vegetables are evenly coated.
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In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in beef broth and pour the mixture into the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Preheat your oven to broil. Place the hamburger buns on a baking sheet, cut side up.
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Spoon the prepared beef mixture onto the bottom halves of each bun. Top each with a slice of provolone cheese.
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Broil the sandwiches for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
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Remove from the oven and cover with the top halves of the buns. Serve immediately.
Note
- For a spicier version, consider adding red chili flakes or jalapenos.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Try using different cheese varieties, like cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat and assemble when ready to serve.
