Get ready for a fun twist on a classic! Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes combine all the tasty flavors of a cheesesteak with the messy goodness of sloppy joes. Yum!
This dish is loaded with ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and gooey cheese. Plus, it’s super easy to make—a big win for busy nights! I love serving it with crispy fries on the side! 🍔🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show, providing a rich and meaty base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or plant-based beef.
Onion and Green Bell Pepper: These veggies add sweetness and crunch. If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, try using diced mushrooms or even zucchini. Vidalia onions can also be a delicious swap for a sweeter flavor.
Provolone Cheese: The gooey cheese brings this dish together. For a zippier taste, you could use mozzarella or even cheddar. If you’re avoiding dairy, a cashew or almond cheese could work as a tasty alternative.
Worcestershire Sauce: It adds a depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding anchovies, a bit of soy sauce with a dash of lemon can nicely replace it. Alternatively, a splash of liquid smoke gives it a different but delicious twist.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor?
To ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are packed with flavor, focus on sautéing your vegetables well. Cook the onions and peppers until they’re just tender, and don’t rush the browning of the beef; this adds a nice richness to the dish.
- Start by heating olive oil in the skillet before adding onions and peppers. They should sizzle right away for even cooking.
- When browning the beef, break it apart into small pieces. This ensures that it gets a good caramelization, which enhances the flavor.
- Let the mixture simmer long enough for the flavors to meld together; about 5–10 minutes is perfect. If you have time, letting it sit longer lets everything flavor up nicely!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably toasted)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and lightly browned.
2. Add Garlic and Ground Beef:
Next, throw in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its beautiful aroma. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart, cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
3. Mix in the Sauces and Spices:
Now it’s time to flavor things up! Stir in the beef broth, marinara sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will make your Joes super tasty!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Once the mixture is nice and thick, reduce the heat to low. Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture, letting it melt for a couple of minutes. The gooey cheese will take this dish to another level!
5. Assemble and Serve:
Finally, it’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve the cheesy sloppy joe mixture on toasted hamburger buns, and feel free to add any extra cheese on top if you’re a cheese lover! Dig in and savor your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that ground turkey might require a bit more seasoning since it’s milder in flavor. You can also add a splash of soy sauce or more Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste.
What If I Don’t Have Provolone Cheese?
No worries! If provolone isn’t available, you can easily substitute it with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Each will bring a slightly different flavor but will still make for a delicious Sloppy Joe.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and it will still be hearty and satisfying!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the mixture on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it looks dry. You can also freeze the filling for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
