This fun twist on a classic combines the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the ease of Sloppy Joes. Ground beef, peppers, and melty cheese come together in a tasty mess!
If you love comfort food, this dish is a winner. I like to pile it high on a bun and enjoy with a side of fries. You might find yourself licking your plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend. It’s juicy and flavorful! If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or ground chicken works as a good substitute.
Bell Pepper: While I use green bell pepper for a slight bitterness, feel free to swap it with red or yellow peppers for a sweeter taste.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. You can use chicken broth or veggie broth if you’re out or need a different flavor.
Cheese: Provolone is classic here, but if you prefer something milder, American cheese melts wonderfully too. You could also use mozzarella if you want a stretchy cheese effect.
Ketchup: This brings a little tang. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using tomato sauce or diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sloppy Joe Consistency?
The key to a great Sloppy Joe is simmering! After cooking the meat and veggies, the mixture should cook down a bit. Start with a simmer on medium heat.
- Add the beef broth, ketchup, and spices. Stir well to combine.
- Let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- If it seems too runny, you can continue to cook it for a few more minutes, stirring gently to avoid sticking.
This way, you’ll create a perfect balance of flavors that cling nicely to your bun!
How to Make Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For Serving:
- 4 hoagie or sandwich buns, split
- 8 slices provolone or American cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes. You’ll be enjoying your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking it while breaking it into small pieces. Cook until the meat is brown and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off to keep your filling from being too oily.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, introduce the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook it for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become soft. This adds a nice flavor and texture to your filling!
3. Create the Sauce Mixture:
Now, it’s time to stir in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and the optional smoked paprika. Make sure everything is well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help thicken up the sauce and blend the flavors beautifully!
4. Toast the Buns:
While your sloppy joe filling is simmering, lightly toast the sandwich buns. You can do this in a separate pan or in the oven until they are golden brown. Toasting enhances the texture and prevents the buns from becoming soggy.
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Now, take the toasted buns and spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Enjoy the rich aroma as you layer on the toppings!
6. Add the Cheese:
To make it cheesy and melty, layer two slices of provolone or American cheese over each helping of the meat mixture while it’s still hot, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly over the filling.
7. Finish and Serve:
Finally, place the top halves of the buns on each sandwich and serve them immediately. Enjoy your yummy and hearty Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes with your favorite sides!
Dig in and relish each messy and tasty bite—this dish is sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative! It will reduce the fat content while still providing delicious flavors. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust the cooking time as needed, since turkey may take a bit longer to brown.
How Do I Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the meat mixture separate from the buns to prevent them from getting soggy. You can reheat the filling on the stove or in the microwave before serving again.
Can I Make These Sloppy Joes Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce into the mix while cooking. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level!
Can I Freeze the Sloppy Joe Filling?
Yes, you can freeze the filling! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove before serving.
