This fun twist on a classic offers all the cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak, but in a sloppy joe style! Ground beef, peppers, and onions come together for a tasty, messy treat.
Who doesn’t love a meal that requires napkins? 😂 I like serving mine on toasted buns with extra cheese melted on top. It’s simple, quick, and always a big hit at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and moisture. For a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just be mindful that leaner meats might cook differently.
Bell Pepper & Onion: Green bell pepper adds a distinct taste, but you could swap it for red, yellow, or orange peppers for a sweeter touch. Any mild onion can work; I’ve used both sweet onions and yellow onions with great results.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone is my go-to for that melty, gooey goodness. If you can’t find it, American or even mozzarella works great too! Cheese is what makes it truly irresistible!
Buns: Hoagie rolls are traditional, but I find that soft sandwich buns are delightful too. If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free buns available in stores.
How Do I Ensure the Beef Mixture Isn’t Too Watery?
A common challenge with sloppy joes is getting the right consistency. Here are some tips to keep your mixture thick and flavorful:
- Cook down the mixture: Let it simmer long enough for some liquid to evaporate.
- Thickeners: If it’s still too watery after simmering, add a quick slurry of cornstarch mixed with water and stir it in.
- Flavor first: Ensure you start with a great seasoning base by allowing the beef mixture to cook and develop flavors before adding too much liquid.
Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns, split
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for toasting buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks, ensuring it browns nicely and is fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it from the skillet.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté these together, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are nice and soft.
3. Create the Flavorful Sauce:
Now it’s time to add a burst of flavor! Stir in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce (if you decided to use it). Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes. This step is important as it helps the mixture thicken slightly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Toast the Buns:
While your filling is simmering, preheat a separate skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or butter and lightly toast the split hoagie rolls or sandwich buns until they are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Now for the fun part! Spoon a generous amount of the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Carefully lay a slice of provolone cheese over the hot meat mixture to let it melt slightly.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Place the bun tops over the cheesy filling and serve your sloppy joes immediately. Prepare for deliciousness! These messy treats are perfect for digging in with your hands—don’t forget the napkins!
Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may be a little drier than ground beef, so consider adding a bit more broth or a drizzle of olive oil while cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use chopped mushrooms or lentils for added texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using different ingredients!
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop before assembling your sloppy joes. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, and I recommend toasting fresh buns just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch!
