Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring a fun twist to a classic favorite! With ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and melty cheese, these sandwiches are both hearty and tasty.
Who doesn’t love a little mess when it comes to a good meal? I like to pile on the toppings and maybe add some chips on the side for crunch. Perfect for game nights or family dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Traditional cheesesteaks use steak, but here, ground beef makes it easy and delicious. Ground turkey is a lighter option that works just as well, offering a different flavor.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These vegetables add sweetness and crunch. Red or yellow bell peppers can replace green ones if you prefer a sweeter taste. You can skip them entirely for a simpler version, too.
Beef Broth: This adds depth. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, use low-sodium beef broth or vegetable broth. Water can be used in a pinch, just keep in mind it won’t have as much flavor.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone brings a nice melt and flavor. Feel free to swap it for mozzarella or even cheddar, depending on your taste. Just keep in mind, cheddar will give a stronger flavor.
Brioche Buns: These buns are wonderfully soft and slightly sweet. Any hamburger bun can work, but for a healthier option, try whole wheat buns or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Meat Mixture?
Cooking the meat mixture just right is key to the overall flavor. You want the beef to be browned but not overcooked. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating your skillet on medium. This way, the onions and peppers can soften before adding the meat.
- When adding the ground beef, break it up with a spoon right away. This helps it cook evenly.
- Cook until it’s browned, which usually takes 5-7 minutes. If you see any grease accumulating, carefully drain it to keep the mixture from being too oily.
- After browning, add in your liquids and seasonings. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld.
With these steps, you’ll have a tasty beef mixture that is flavorful and satisfying!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or cheese of your choice)
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20 minutes to cook, making a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be enjoying these delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they become nice and soft. This will give your dish a wonderful flavor right from the start!
2. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute. This will really amp up the aroma, so get ready to smell something delicious!
3. Brown the Meat:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add in the ground beef (or turkey). Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks! Once it’s done, drain any excess fat.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Next, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This will give the sauce a chance to thicken slightly and soak in all those yummy flavors!
5. Melt the Cheese:
In the last couple of minutes of cooking, lay the provolone cheese slices over the meat mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt beautifully.
6. Toast the Buns:
If you’d like, you can lightly toast the hamburger buns while the cheese is melting. This adds a wonderful crunch!
7. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
To serve, spoon the cheesy cheesesteak mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, and then place the other half on top. If you want, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on for a bit of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your hot and tasty Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes! They’re perfect for a quick meal or a fun gathering with friends. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey might be a bit drier, so you may want to add a little extra broth to the mix for moisture.
What if I Don’t Have Provolone Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute provolone with other melting cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just use the same amount, and melt it over the meat mixture as directed!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance! Just store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove and serve it fresh on toasted buns for a quick meal!
