These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic! Juicy ground beef mixed with peppers, onions, and gooey cheese, all piled on a soft bun, make for a tasty meal.
They’re messy in the best way possible! Who can resist a bit of cheese dribbling down their chin? 😄 Perfect for game night or anytime you need a comfort food fix!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I recommend 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can be a great substitute, but the taste will differ slightly.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you prefer, you can use sweet onions or shallots. Also, red onion provides a nice color and milder flavor.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds a nice crunch and earthy flavor. You could swap it out with red, yellow, or even poblano peppers for a different twist.
Cheese: Provolone is the classic choice here for its meltability and flavor. If you can’t find it, Swiss or even cheddar will work just fine, depending on your taste.
Buns: Soft brioche buns are perfect for this recipe due to their richness. However, you can also use classic hamburger buns or any bread you prefer, just be sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling!
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Perfectly Cooked and Flavored?
Cooking the beef properly and ensuring it’s flavorful is crucial. Start by breaking it apart well while browning to ensure even cooking. Here’s how:
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning. This helps to brown the meat without drying it out.
- Drain any excess fat after browning; too much grease can make your dish soggy.
- Add seasonings timely. Sprinkle salt and pepper while cooking for better absorption.
Letting your mixture simmer after adding the broth and sauces allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep stirring occasionally to avoid sticking!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese
For the Buns:
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably soft brioche)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be sautéing vegetables, browning the beef, and creating a delicious cheesy mixture—all perfect for a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are softened. This will give your dish a great flavor base!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat before moving to the next step.
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens—mix it all together and taste to see if it needs more seasoning!
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly, which makes for a deliciously sloppy filling!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Place the slices of provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a couple of minutes. The cheese will melt beautifully, making everything extra cheesy!
7. Prepare the Buns:
If you like, you can toast the hamburger buns for a little extra crunch. Then, spoon the beef and cheese mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun, and place the other half on top.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are ready to be devoured! Serve them hot and enjoy this hearty meal with friends or family—it’s a delicious twist on a classic!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will work well in this recipe. Just remember that turkey can be leaner, so you might want to add an extra tablespoon of olive oil during cooking to keep it moist.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider mixing in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, or you can add some diced jalapeños when you sauté the onions and bell peppers. For extra flavor, try a spicy mustard instead of regular mustard!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also pop them in the microwave for a quick option, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Definitely! While provolone is traditional, you can swap it out for other cheeses such as cheddar or American if you prefer. Just keep in mind that each cheese has a different melting point and flavor, so choose one that you enjoy!
