Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

What happens when you combine the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the easy, comforting appeal of a sloppy joe? You get an incredibly delicious meal that’s quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe has all the elements of both iconic dishes—juicy beef, melted cheese, sautéed onions and peppers—served in a soft bun. Keep reading to learn how to make this family-favorite dish, plus tips and variations to make it your own!

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What Are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the perfect marriage of two beloved American sandwiches. Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak features thinly sliced beef, onions, peppers, and cheese served on a hoagie roll. On the other hand, a sloppy joe consists of ground beef cooked in a tangy tomato-based sauce and served on a bun. By combining elements from both, Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a cheesy, beefy delight, offering the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the easy-to-make, saucy texture of a sloppy joe. The result? A hearty, flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious meal:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean beef preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or 4-6 slices of provolone)
• 4 hamburger buns (or hoagie rolls for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak feel)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter, for toasting buns (optional)
• Optional toppings: sliced pickles, extra cheese, or sautéed onions

Substitutions and Variations

The great thing about this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe is that it's highly customizable. Whether you're looking to tweak the ingredients for dietary reasons or just want to experiment with flavors, here are a few ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten up the recipe or if you prefer a leaner meat.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based ground beef alternatives and a vegan cheese option to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
• Cheese Variations: Provolone is traditional in Philly cheesesteaks, but you can also use mozzarella, American cheese, or even Cheez Whiz for a more authentic Philly experience.
• Roll Alternatives: Don’t have hamburger buns? Use hoagie rolls, French bread, or even toasted slices of sourdough.
• Add More Veggies: If you're a veggie lover, feel free to add extras like sliced red bell peppers or even spinach for added nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, add in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make these tasty Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes? Follow this easy step-by-step guide to prepare a meal that’s ready in less than 30 minutes!

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the beef until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil if necessary, then toss in the diced onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté the veggies for about 4-5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until the garlic becomes aromatic.

Step 3: Combine Beef with Vegetables

Once the vegetables are sautéed, return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir well to combine the beef and vegetables.

Step 4: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and beef broth. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If the mixture seems too runny, you can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this slurry into the beef mixture, and let it cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the beef mixture. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and combined with the beef. Alternatively, if you’re using sliced provolone, lay the slices over the top of the beef and let them melt without stirring for a gooey, cheesy topping.

Step 7: Toast the Buns (Optional)

If you prefer, butter your hamburger buns or hoagie rolls and toast them lightly in a skillet or in the oven for extra crunch and flavor.

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

Here’s a quick breakdown of how to cook Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes:

1. Cook the ground beef until browned and drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the vegetables (onions, peppers, mushrooms, and garlic) until soft and fragrant.
3. Combine the beef with the veggies and stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and beef broth.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Thicken the sauce with cornstarch slurry if needed.
6. Melt the cheese into the beef mixture.
7. Toast the buns (optional) and assemble the sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Beef: Be careful not to overcook the ground beef, which can make it dry. Cook it just until it's browned and no longer pink.
• Undercooking Vegetables: Sauté the onions and peppers until they're soft for the best flavor. Undercooked veggies can leave an unpleasant crunch in the dish.
• Forgetting to Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Make sure to taste the beef mixture before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or even extra Worcestershire sauce if needed to enhance the flavors.
• Not Toasting the Buns: While toasting the buns is optional, it adds an extra layer of texture and prevents the bread from getting too soggy under the saucy beef mixture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are best served hot and fresh off the skillet. Here are some serving and presentation tips to make your dish stand out:

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Top with Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, add a little extra shredded cheese on top right before serving.
• Sautéed Onions: If you love onions, add extra sautéed onions on top of the sandwich for an additional layer of flavor.
• Pickle Slices: For a bit of tang, serve with sliced pickles on the side or even tucked into the sandwich.
• Serve with Sides: This dish pairs well with French fries, a side salad, or even potato chips for a crunchy contrast.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Rustic Skillet Serving: Serve the beef mixture directly from the skillet at the table for a family-style meal.
• Individual Portions: Assemble the sandwiches on a large platter and garnish with fresh parsley or more cheese for a crowd-pleasing display.
• Mess-Free Buns: To avoid sloppy sandwiches, place a piece of parchment paper or foil underneath the sandwiches when serving, making them easier to eat without the mess.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just wait to add the cheese and toast the buns until just before serving for the best texture.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This mixture freezes well! Cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop and add cheese before serving.

Q: What type of cheese should I use?
A: Provolone is the traditional choice for Philly cheesesteaks, but you can also use mozzarella, American cheese, or even Cheez Whiz for a more authentic Philly vibe.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use gluten-free buns or rolls and ensure your ketchup and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

Q: Can I use another type of meat?
A: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well as a replacement for ground beef in this recipe.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes offer a delicious twist on two classic American sandwiches, blending the hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the easy-to-make style of a sloppy joe. With tender ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted cheese served in a soft bun, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or gathering. Customize the recipe to suit your tastes, and enjoy this satisfying, flavor-packed meal! Try it tonight and experience the ultimate comfort food fusion!

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