Name: Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; 1 1/2 cups provolone or American cheese, shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking; Optional: extra pickled jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love Philly cheesesteaks but are looking for a quicker, easier, and more family-friendly version, these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are just what you need. The combination of ground beef and sautéed onions and peppers, topped with gooey melted cheese, creates a flavor explosion in every bite. This dish is easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings or additional seasonings.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
1 1/2 cups provolone or American cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
Optional: extra pickled jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
While the mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a separate skillet or oven until golden.
Once the meat mixture has thickened, divide it evenly between the toasted buns. Top with shredded cheese and let it melt, either by covering with a lid for a minute or placing under a broiler for a few seconds.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides or enjoy on its own.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Meat Substitution: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this recipe.
Cheese Variety: If you prefer a different cheese, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based ground meat or a hearty mushroom mix in place of the beef.
Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to spice up the dish.
Sauce Enhancements: Experiment with adding a bit of BBQ sauce or ketchup to the meat mixture for a tangy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat the meat in the microwave, though it may not keep the same texture as stovetop reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free buns or serving the filling over rice or lettuce wraps instead.

Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey works great as a leaner option. Just be sure to season it well since these meats tend to be milder in flavor.

What if I don’t have provolone cheese?

If you don’t have provolone, you can substitute with mozzarella, American cheese, or any cheese that melts well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and assemble the sandwiches.

What kind of buns work best for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Soft hamburger buns or slider buns work best for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes. You want something sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach for an extra dose of veggies. Just sauté them with the onions and peppers to soften them up before adding the beef.

Can I freeze leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Yes, you can freeze the meat mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.

How do I prevent the sloppy joe mixture from being too runny?

Make sure to let the mixture simmer long enough to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, thickening the sauce. If it’s still too runny, you can add a bit more tomato paste to help it thicken.

Can I use different seasonings?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with seasonings like Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a little garlic powder to add more depth to the flavor.

What sides go well with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes pair wonderfully with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or something different to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to please. With simple ingredients, easy prep, and loads of cheesy, savory flavor, these sloppy joes are bound to become a new family favorite. Enjoy!