Get ready for a fun twist on a classic! These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes combine juicy ground beef with colorful peppers, onions, and melted cheese, all on a soft bun.
Honestly, who can resist that gooey cheese? I always end up making extra because they disappear fast at my dinner table! Try adding your favorite toppings like pickles or hot sauce! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for good flavor and moisture. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken can work too, just be aware they might need extra seasoning.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, feel free to use a sweet onion like Vidalia. Red onion could add a nice color, too!
Green Bell Pepper: This gives a fresh crunch, but you can swap it with any bell pepper color. For some heat, try jalapeños or even a poblano pepper which adds a smoky flavor.
Provolone Cheese: This adds that creamy gooeyness! If provolone isn’t available, mozzarella or Swiss cheese could do the trick. I like adding a hint of sharp cheddar for more flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Stays Juicy and Flavors Blend Well?
Cooking ground beef properly is key to keeping it juicy while blending those flavors. Start by heating the olive oil and sautéing your veggies first to soften them up. It builds a flavorful base.
- When adding the ground beef, break it apart into small chunks right away. This helps it brown evenly.
- Don’t rush the draining step; excess grease can make the mixture too oily.
- Be sure to simmer the mixture with broth and sauces for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows all those beautiful flavors to mingle and thicken up!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices provolone cheese
For Serving:
- 4 brioche buns, toasted
- Optional: additional toppings (e.g., diced jalapeños, extra cheese)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes in about 30 minutes. Quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This is where the flavors start to come together!
2. Add Garlic and Cook Meat:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, just enough for it to become fragrant. Next, stir in the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess grease for a leaner meal.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens up a bit. You should smell that tasty aroma filling your kitchen!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Once the mixture is thickened, reduce the heat to low. Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture in the skillet. Cover it with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese is nice and melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab your toasted brioche buns and fill them generously with the cheesesteak mixture. If you like, add some extra toppings like diced jalapeños or more cheese. Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes while they’re warm!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly as leaner meats can cook faster. Ensure that it’s fully cooked before adding the broth and sauces.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the beef mixture for up to 2 months. Just make sure to defrost it in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños as a topping or incorporating some chopped serrano peppers into the beef mixture while it cooks. You can also use a spicy mustard or add a few dashes of hot sauce before serving!
Can I Use Different Cheese?
Definitely! While provolone is traditional, you can use other cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or even a pepper jack for added spice. Just ensure it’s a melting cheese for that creamy finish on your Sloppy Joes!
