Why Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Are a Must-Try
What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect blend of flavors, with seasoned beef, sautéed veggies, and melted cheese, all served on a soft toasted bun. Plus, it’s a quicker, easier version of the traditional cheesesteak without sacrificing any of the flavor. This recipe combines comfort food with a touch of excitement, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a relaxed weekend meal.
Ingredients List:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Timing
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Cook the Ground Beef: Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
Add Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the diced green bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 4-5 minutes.
Season the Beef: Stir in garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and flour. The flour helps thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, making sure everything is well combined.
Add Beef Broth: Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Melt the Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, place the provolone cheese slices over the beef mixture. Let the cheese melt before stirring it in.
Toast the Buns: While the beef is cooking, toast your buns. You can either toast them in a skillet with a bit of butter or pop them in the oven for a few minutes until they’re golden brown.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted buns, and you’re ready to serve!
Best Ground Beef for Juicy Sloppy Joes
For the juiciest sloppy joes, I recommend using 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). This ensures that the beef is flavorful and tender but not overly greasy.
How to Achieve the Perfect Cheesesteak Flavor
To capture that authentic cheesesteak flavor, the key is in the seasonings. Worcestershire sauce adds depth, while the green peppers and onions bring a traditional cheesesteak taste. Don’t forget to use provolone cheese—it melts beautifully and adds that signature cheesiness.
Tips for Toasting Buns to Perfection
I always recommend toasting the buns for that added crunch. Spread a little butter on the insides of the buns, then toast them in a hot skillet until golden brown. It helps prevent the sloppy joes from getting too soggy.
Toppings and Cheese Options for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Provolone is the classic choice, but if you prefer something different, American cheese or Cheez Whiz work well too. You can also add toppings like sautéed mushrooms or even a little hot sauce if you like extra heat.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Variations and Substitutions
1- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
2- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground beef for a vegetarian twist. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.
3- Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Best with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes pair perfectly with fries, potato chips, or a simple side salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve them with mac and cheese for an ultra-comforting meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until hot, and toast fresh buns.
Can You Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Yes! The meat mixture freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 30g
Conclusion
These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful twist on two beloved classics. The combination of savory beef, melty cheese, and toasted buns is something I always look forward to, and I’m sure you’ll love it too. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe delivers big flavors without a ton of effort.