These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! Picture tasty ground beef mixed with melted cheese, peppers, and onions, all stuffed into soft buns. Yum!
Every bite is like a little party in your mouth! 🥳 I love making these on busy nights since they’re quick and easy. Serve them with fries for a perfect meal that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter flavor. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based ground meat or lentils.
Green Bell Pepper: Gives a nice crunch and sweetness. If you want a different flavor, red or yellow bell peppers work well too. For a spicier kick, a diced jalapeño could be a tasty alternative.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture. If provolone isn’t available, mozzarella or cheddar are great substitutes. For a sharper taste, try using pepper jack cheese.
Brioche Buns: I like brioche for its slightly sweet flavor and soft texture. You could also use whole wheat, regular hamburger buns, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Ground Beef?
Getting the ground beef just right is key to a delicious sloppy joe. Start by using a hot skillet to brown the meat, which locks in flavor. Break it apart with a spatula to allow even cooking. Watch for excess fat: draining it helps keep your mixture from being greasy.
- Heat the skillet before adding the beef for a nice sear.
- Cook until browned, usually 6-8 minutes. Keep an eye on color, adjusting heat if needed.
- Drain excess fat if it looks too greasy, but leave some for richness.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese
For the Buns:
- 4 hamburger buns, preferably brioche
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Drizzle some olive oil in the skillet to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft and starting to change color. This will add nice flavor to your sloppy joes.
2. Cook the Garlic and Beef:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned all over, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat if you need to!
3. Create the Flavorful Mixture:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens a bit. This will infuse all the flavors beautifully!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture. Cover your skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is nice and melted.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, you can toast your hamburger buns. You can do this in a separate skillet with a bit of olive oil or place them under a broiler until they’re golden brown. This gives the buns a nice crunch!
6. Assemble and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spoon a generous amount of the cheesesteak filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Then, place the top half of the bun over the filling. Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes immediately and enjoy this delicious twist on a classic!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey can cook a bit faster. Follow the same steps, and you’ll still create a delicious Philly cheesesteak sloppy joe!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. You can sauté them the same way as you would with ground beef, and for extra flavor, you might want to add a splash more Worcestershire sauce (look for vegetarian-friendly versions) to complement the dish.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time! After cooking, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a skillet before assembling the sandwiches.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through. You can toast the buns again for a little added crunch if you’d like!
