Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes – Quick & Cheesy Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes take the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and combine them with the messy, satisfying goodness of a sloppy joe.

This easy, 30-minute meal is packed with savory ground beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and melty provolone cheese, all served on a toasted bun.

It’s the perfect recipe for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a delicious alternative to traditional sloppy joes with a bold, cheesy twist.

Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an easy meal prep option, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

The balance of tender beef, gooey cheese, and perfectly seasoned vegetables makes each bite irresistible.

Best of all, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and is incredibly simple to prepare.

Keep reading to learn how to make this satisfying and flavorful meal in no time.

What Are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are a fusion of two classic comfort foods: the rich and savory taste of a Philly cheesesteak and the hearty, saucy goodness of a sloppy joe.

Instead of thinly sliced steak, ground beef is used, making the dish more budget-friendly and easy to prepare.

Traditional Philly cheesesteak ingredients like onions, bell peppers, and provolone cheese are mixed into the beef, creating a flavorful filling that’s served on toasted sandwich buns.

The result is a cheesy, meaty sandwich with a slightly sweet and tangy sauce, making it a family-friendly meal that’s both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 4 sandwich buns, toasted

Optional Additions

• ½ cup sliced mushrooms for added umami flavor
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness
• Buttered and toasted brioche buns for a richer flavor
• A drizzle of hot sauce or BBQ sauce for extra tanginess

Substitutions and Variations

• Meat Options: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Cheese Choices: If you prefer, substitute provolone with American cheese, Swiss cheese, or mozzarella.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve the beef mixture over lettuce wraps or in a low-carb tortilla instead of a bun.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground beef and a vegan cheese alternative for a meatless version.
• Gluten-Free: Serve over a baked potato or use gluten-free buns.

Recipe Instructions to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Cook The Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Brown The Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add Seasonings And Sauce
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pour in the beef broth and mix well. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Thicken The Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water, then pour it into the skillet. Stir well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Melt The Cheese
Reduce heat to low and place the provolone cheese slices over the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble The Sloppy Joes
Spoon the beef mixture onto toasted sandwich buns and serve immediately.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Skipping The Cornstarch: Without thickening the sauce, the mixture may be too runny and soak through the buns.
• Not Toasting The Buns: Toasting adds a nice crunch and prevents the bread from getting soggy.
• Overcooking The Beef: Cooking the beef too long can make it dry. Be sure to cook just until browned.
• Forgetting To Drain Grease: If using high-fat ground beef, drain excess grease to prevent the sandwich from becoming greasy.

Serving And Presentation Tips

• Serve with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or extra cheese for added appeal.
• Use thick, buttery buns like brioche or potato rolls for an elevated taste.
• Pair with a pickle spear for a classic sandwich experience.

Expert Tips

• Use a combination of provolone and cheddar for a deeper, more complex cheesy flavor.
• Make a double batch and store leftovers for easy meal prep.
• If you want an extra saucy mixture, add an extra ¼ cup of beef broth.
• Let the beef sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

FAQs

Can I make Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze the beef mixture?
Yes, let it cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with these sandwiches?
Serve with fries, chips, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella, or even Pepper Jack can work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes offer a delicious twist on two beloved comfort foods, combining the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the heartiness of a sloppy joe.

Quick to prepare and packed with cheesy, meaty goodness, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Try it tonight and enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love.