These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring the best of both worlds! They combine the juicy flavors of a cheesesteak with the fun of a sloppy joe, all served on a soft bun.
They’re super easy to make, and you can layer on the cheese just the way you like it. I love adding a side of crispy fries—definitely a meal that makes everyone smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe uses ground beef for a hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works too. Plant-based ground meat alternatives can also be a hit for a vegetarian version!
Green Bell Pepper: The green bell pepper adds a nice crunch and flavor. You could substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter taste, or even use diced mushrooms for an earthier flavor.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone gives a creamy texture and great melty quality. If you can’t find it, mozzarella or even cheddar can also work! My personal favorite is always a good quality mozzarella.
Hamburger Buns: I prefer soft hamburger buns to soak up all the sauce. If you want something sturdier, consider using brioche buns or even whole grain buns for added texture and taste.
How Do I Get the Beef Mixture to Thicken Properly?
Thickening the beef mixture is key for a great sloppy joe. As the sauce simmers, it will reduce and intensify in flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- After adding the beef broth and marinara, bring it to a gentle simmer. Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning.
- Allow it to cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. This helps steam escape and thickens the sauce.
- Stir occasionally, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably soft)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes or until they are softened and fragrant. Just keep stirring occasionally to avoid burning!
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Now, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing! Increase the heat to medium-high and then add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring and breaking the beef into smaller pieces until it’s browned. If there’s extra fat in the pan, feel free to drain it off.
3. Make the Saucy Mixture:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let this mixture come to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. This will allow it to thicken up just a bit, making it perfect for your buns.
4. Prepare for Broiling:
While your beef mixture is simmering, go ahead and preheat the broiler in your oven. This will help melt the cheese perfectly later on!
5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Once the beef mixture is nice and thick, it’s time to assemble! Grab your hamburger buns and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each bun. Top each one with a slice of provolone cheese—you want that melty goodness!
6. Broil and Serve:
Carefully place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning! When they’re done, take them out and serve immediately. If you like, you can garnish with extra sautéed peppers or onions. Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and season well, as these meats tend to be milder in flavor. You may want to add a bit of extra Worcestershire sauce to boost the taste.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use finely chopped mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture. Also, replace the beef broth with vegetable broth and ensure your marinara sauce is meat-free.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the beef mixture separate from the buns until you’re ready to serve. You can reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave, and toast the buns for a few minutes for added crunch!
Can I Add Other Toppings to My Sloppy Joes?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Sloppy Joes with toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even a dollop of guacamole. Hot sauce or BBQ sauce can add an extra kick if you like a bit of spice or tang!
