These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on two favorites! Ground beef, peppers, and onions come together with melty cheese, all piled onto soft buns.
I love how messy yet tasty these are! It’s the perfect meal for a relaxed dinner. Don’t forget the napkins—this is one delicious adventure! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for this recipe, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try ground sausage or plant-based ground meat as alternatives.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds a fresh crunch. You can replace it with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter taste. Zucchini or mushrooms can work too for a different texture and flavor.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone is my favorite because it melts beautifully. Mozzarella or cheddar are great substitutes if you can’t find provolone. For a kick, try pepper jack cheese.
Beef Broth: I recommend using low-sodium beef broth to control the salt. You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth in a pinch if you want a lighter flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Toasted Buns?
Toasting your buns ensures they stay firm and delicious, even with the juicy filling. Here’s how to do it right:
- Position your oven rack at the top before preheating the broiler.
- Slice the buns and lay them cut side up on a baking sheet.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on them! They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
- Remove them as soon as they are golden brown and crispy. This makes a big difference in texture when you top them with the meaty mixture.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns or brioche buns
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes in about 35 minutes. Fast and perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the 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 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, throw in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This is when your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
3. Brown the Beef:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks. Make sure it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain it off.
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, beef broth, and marinara sauce. Season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This step allows the mixture to thicken slightly and develop fantastic flavors.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the beef is simmering, preheat your oven broiler. Place the hamburger buns cut side up on a baking sheet. Toast them under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes, just until they’re lightly browned. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Once your beef mixture is ready, use a spoon to scoop it onto each toasted bun. Add a slice of provolone cheese on top of each serving. Yummy!
7. Broil to Melt the Cheese:
Place the baking sheet back under the broiler for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want that gooey goodness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. If you like, garnish your cheesesteak sloppy joes with some chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve them warm and enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as ground turkey may require a bit longer to brown properly. You might also want to add a touch more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the quality, it’s best to keep the beef mixture separate from the buns until you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze the Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Yes! The sloppy joe mixture freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove until warmed through.
What Toppings Can I Add Besides Cheese?
Feel free to get creative! Some delicious options include sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños for a kick, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce for added sweetness. You could also add a slice of avocado or fresh arugula for a fresh touch!
