These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! Juicy beef, melted cheese, and peppers come together in a messy but tasty bun. It’s a comfort food lover’s dream!
Who knew Sloppy Joes could be so cheesy and satisfying? I never have leftovers when I make these—everyone gobbles them up! Just make sure to have napkins ready! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in your sloppy joes. If you’re looking for lighter options, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Prefer plant-based? Try a meat substitute like lentils or a veggie burger crumbled up for a tasty twist.
Green Bell Pepper: Fresh green bell peppers bring a nice crunch. If you don’t have them, red or yellow bell peppers are great substitutes—they’re sweeter and just as colorful! For a bit of heat, jalapeños can also be an exciting addition.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone melts beautifully. If it’s hard to find, mozzarella is a good alternative. Cheddar also works, but remember, it offers a sharper taste. I sometimes mix cheeses for extra flavor!
Hamburger Buns: Traditional buns are perfect, but if you want something different, try hoagie rolls or even whole wheat buns for a healthier choice. Gluten-free buns are widely available if you need a gluten-free option.
How Do I Get the Ground Beef Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked ground beef starts with the right technique. You’ll want to break it apart gently while it cooks to ensure even browning and prevent clumping. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the ground beef over medium heat. This allows it to cook evenly without burning.
- Use a spatula to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown better and cook faster.
- If there’s too much grease, grab a bowl or cup to drain it off. This keeps your dish tasty and not greasy!
Taking these steps will make your filling deliciously rich without any unpleasant oiliness. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning (or salt and pepper to taste)
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
For the Buns:
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional: sliced pickles or jalapeños for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re at soft. This will make your filling flavorful!
2. Browning the Beef:
Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook the mixture until the beef is fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it from the skillet.
3. Mixing in the Sauces:
Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and steak seasoning. Bring the mixture to a nice simmer and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes. This will allow the flavors to mix and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Melting the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of the provolone cheese and mix it in until it melts. This adds a creamy texture to your filling!
5. Toasting the Buns:
While the beef mixture cools slightly, toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or under a broiler to your liking. Toasting gives them a nice crunch!
6. Assembling the Sloppy Joes:
Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and spoon the Philly cheesesteak filling over it. Top with the remaining provolone cheese for extra cheesiness.
7. Extra Melting (Optional):
If you want a gooey finish, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese even more. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn!
8. Serving Time:
Serve these hot Sloppy Joes with pickles or jalapeños on the side, if you like a bit of crunch or heat. Place the top half of the bun over the filling, and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be aware that these meats may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them as they brown to avoid drying them out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep flavors rich without meat. Enjoy the same great taste without the meat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the sloppy joe mixture for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Use Different Cheese Varieties?
Yes! While provolone is traditional, feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese for a creamier texture. Just remember to adjust the amount based on the meltability of the cheese you choose!
