These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! Ground beef gets a cheesy upgrade with onions and peppers, all piled on a soft bun.
Who wouldn’t love a messy, cheesy bite? They’re perfect for game night or a quick dinner. I like to serve mine with extra pickles on the side—yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for ground beef for that classic flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey is a great substitute. It still gives a nice texture and works well with the other flavors.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds a refreshing crunch. If you want a bit more sweetness, try red bell peppers instead. They work beautifully in this dish!
Worcestershire Sauce: This is crucial for that savory umami flavor. If you’re out, you could mix soy sauce with a dash of vinegar as a quick alternative. It’s not exactly the same, but it will add depth.
Provolone Cheese: I love provolone for its meltiness and slight tang. Mozzarella or even cheddar could work if provolone isn’t available, but the flavor will shift a bit.
Burger Buns: Soft brioche buns are my favorite; they soak up the sauce nicely. If you’re watching carbs, try lettuce wraps for a fresh take!
How can I make sure my beef is perfectly browned?
Greenlighting the beef correctly is key to flavor! Cooking it properly makes a huge difference. When adding the ground beef, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure your skillet is hot—this helps in browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can cause steaming instead of browning. Work in batches if needed.
- Use a spatula to break it into smaller pieces, allowing all sides to brown evenly. Aim for a nice golden color.
Taking your time here will deepen the overall taste of your sloppy joes!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 4 burger buns (preferably soft brioche)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the beef mixture, plus a few minutes for cheese melting and serving. It’s a quick, hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and tender.
2. Add Garlic and Ground Beef:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, stirring until it becomes fragrant. Then increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned. If there’s too much grease, don’t forget to drain it!
3. Mix in Sauces and Simmer:
Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, and smoked paprika. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed. Let the mixture simmer on lower heat for about 10 minutes. This helps all the flavors come together and thickens the sauce a bit.
4. Melt the Cheese:
When you’re ready to serve, place a slice of provolone cheese over the beef mixture in the skillet. Cover it for a couple of minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly into the mixture.
5. Toast and Assemble:
If you like toasted buns, pop them on a skillet or griddle until they’re golden and warm. Now, pile up the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted buns. If you want a pop of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes and dive into this deliciously messy goodness. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just follow the recipe as is, and make sure to cook the turkey until it’s fully browned. The flavor will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Provolone Cheese?
If provolone isn’t your favorite, you can easily substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese. Just choose a cheese that melts well and complements the flavors of the dish for the best result.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. If you’re reheating in the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to keep the buns from drying out!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove. Toast the buns fresh before serving for the best texture!
