These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring all the cheesy, meaty goodness everyone loves! With tender beef, melted cheese, and a bit of spice, they’re a fun twist on a classic dish.
Perfect for busy nights, I love piling them high on soft buns. Trust me, you’ll find yourself sneaking back for seconds—just don’t forget the napkins! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main ingredient, providing that juicy flavor. You could use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives!
Onion and Bell Pepper: They add sweetness and crunch. You can substitute yellow or red onions for a different flavor. For the bell pepper, any color works, and even zucchini can be added for a healthy twist!
Cheese: Provolone is classic, but you could also use mozzarella or cheddar for a different taste. For dairy-free options, try vegan cheese that melts well.
Beef Broth: It adds richness to the dish. If you want a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works perfectly here. Homemade broth is great if you have it handy!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Sloppy Joes?
To achieve that comforting texture in Sloppy Joes, it’s vital to properly cook the meat and let the mixture simmer. This way, all the flavors meld nicely. Here’s how:
- Cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned. Break it apart with a spatula for even cooking.
- Let the mixture simmer after adding the broth, ketchup, and sauces. This helps thicken it and enhances the flavors.
- Allow the mixture to sit a minute after adding cheese to let it melt evenly on top!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or cheese of choice)
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty meal you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing as the garlic releases its flavor!
3. Brown the Beef:
Turn up the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Season the beef with salt and pepper, cooking it until it’s browned and no longer pink.
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Let this delicious mixture come to a simmer, and allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens up a bit.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Take the skillet off the heat and lay the provolone cheese slices on top of the beef mixture. Give it a minute to melt perfectly on top!
6. Prepare the Buns:
If you like your buns toasted, now is the time! Toast them lightly in a toaster or on a skillet. Once they’re ready, spoon the cheesesteak mixture generously onto the bottom halves of each bun. Top with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are all set! Serve them warm and enjoy a deliciously messy meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef. Just note that you should be careful not to overcook it, as these meats can dry out more quickly. Season well to enhance the flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Provolone Cheese?
If you don’t have provolone cheese, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick! Just ensure whichever cheese you choose melts well for that perfect gooey texture.
Can I Make These Sloppy Joes Vegetarian?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute like soy or beyond meat. You might want to adjust the spices, too, to suit the new texture and flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry when reheating.
