Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

If you're a fan of both Philly cheesesteaks and sloppy joes, then you’re in for a treat! Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes combine the best of both worlds into a mouthwatering, easy-to-make sandwich that’s bursting with flavor. The savory beef, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions come together in a rich, hearty filling that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Follow along for this irresistible Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes recipe and find out how to make this flavorful mashup at home.

What are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are a delicious combination of two beloved American sandwiches: the iconic Philly cheesesteak and the nostalgic sloppy joe. Traditionally, Philly cheesesteaks are made with thinly sliced steak, onions, and cheese on a hoagie roll, while sloppy joes feature ground beef cooked in a tangy tomato-based sauce. In this recipe, we’re merging the flavors of Philly cheesesteaks with the loose, saucy texture of sloppy joes by using seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions, peppers, and gooey melted cheese, all served on a soft bun.

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this crowd-pleasing meal:

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (lean beef is recommended, but you can also use ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced (optional for extra sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds a tangy depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon steak seasoning (optional but adds extra flavor)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)
• 6-8 soft sandwich buns (or hoagie rolls)

Cheesy Topping

• 8 slices provolone cheese (or cheese whiz for a more traditional Philly cheesesteak feel)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra cheesy goodness)

Seasonings

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Garnishes (Optional)

• Sliced pickles
• Hot sauce or ketchup

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes is how customizable they are. Here are a few suggestions for altering the recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences:

• Meat Substitutes: If you prefer a leaner protein, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken. For a vegetarian version, try using crumbled plant-based meat alternatives or even lentils.
• Cheese Options: While provolone is the classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, you can also use American cheese, mozzarella, or even a processed cheese sauce for a more traditional sloppy joe experience. Vegan cheese works great for a dairy-free option.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the buns and serve the filling in lettuce wraps or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb take on this dish.
• Spicier Version: Add sliced jalapeños to the sautéed vegetables or mix in a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up.
• Extra Vegetables: You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach to the mix for an extra boost of veggies.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of olive oil, then toss in the ground beef. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks, stirring occasionally until browned all over. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, then toss in the diced onions, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper (if using). Cook the vegetables over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Season the Meat: Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and steak seasoning (if using). This will give the meat that signature Philly cheesesteak flavor with a hint of sweetness and tang.
4. Create the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetable mixture, stirring well to combine. This will help thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the beef broth, continuing to stir until the mixture is well incorporated. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the meat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Melt the Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Lay the slices of provolone cheese over the top of the beef mixture, allowing the cheese to melt into the meat. You can also stir in shredded mozzarella for an even cheesier filling. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 2 minutes to help the cheese melt evenly.
6. Toast the Buns (Optional): For a little extra texture, toast your sandwich buns in a separate skillet with a bit of butter or olive oil until golden and crispy.
7. Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted buns, top with any garnishes you like, and serve immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Sauté the vegetables just until they are soft but still slightly crisp. Overcooked veggies can become mushy and lose their vibrant flavor.
• Skipping the Cheese Melt: Don’t rush the cheese-melting step! Allowing the cheese to melt directly into the beef mixture adds a creamy, gooey texture that is essential for this dish.
• Using Too Much Broth: While it’s important to create a sauce for the sloppy joe filling, using too much liquid can result in a runny mixture that’s difficult to eat. Stick to the recommended amount of broth and let the sauce thicken before serving.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are deliciously messy by nature, so serve them up on soft buns or hoagie rolls to soak up all that flavorful filling. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Classic Sides: Serve alongside crispy French fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad.
• Dips and Sauces: Consider offering a small bowl of ketchup, mustard, or even cheese dip on the side for dipping or extra topping.
• Pickle On the Side: A crunchy dill pickle spear makes a great complement to the rich and savory flavors of this dish.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Skillet Presentation: Serve the Philly cheesesteak sloppy joe filling straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Garnished Plates: Once the sloppy joes are assembled, garnish each plate with some fresh herbs (like parsley) or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a finished look.
• Serve in Mini Buns: For a fun party option, serve the filling in mini slider buns for a bite-sized version of this recipe that’s perfect for entertaining.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop and melt the cheese before assembling the sandwiches.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, onions, and peppers. They provide a much deeper and richer flavor than pre-chopped or frozen alternatives.
• Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a crowd, this recipe is easy to double or triple. Just make sure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate all the ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and melt the cheese before assembling the sandwiches.
2. Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat crumbles can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter or vegetarian option.
3. What type of cheese works best? Provolone is the classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, but you can also use mozzarella, American cheese, or even cheese whiz for a more traditional touch.
4. Can I freeze the sloppy joe filling? Yes, you can freeze the filling in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy!
5. How can I make this recipe healthier? For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or chicken, whole-wheat buns, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to boost nutrition.

Conclusion

Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are the ultimate comfort food fusion, bringing together the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the saucy goodness of a sloppy joe. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick, easy, and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. With customizable options and plenty of cheesy goodness, this recipe is one you’ll want to make over and over again. Enjoy your delicious Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!

Print