As I rummaged through my fridge one busy afternoon, a delightful idea sprang to mind: why not blend two comfort food favorites into one luscious dish? Enter the Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes—an imaginative hybrid that combines the iconic savory depth of a Philly cheesesteak with the warm, comforting essence of a Sloppy Joe. This recipe is not only quick to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights, but it also offers endless customization to please every palate. Picture sinking your teeth into a soft bun filled with a thick, cheesy, and meaty mixture, complemented by caramelized onions and colorful peppers. Whether you’re serving it up for game day or simply craving a cozy meal, these Sloppy Joes are sure to become a new favorite at the table. Ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Let’s get cooking!
Why Choose Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
Comforting Fusion: This recipe combines the best of two worlds, offering a rich blend of flavors and textures that pleases every palate.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can serve up this hearty meal in no time—ideal for busy weeknights!
Customizable Delight: Whether you’re a fan of spicy jalapeños or prefer a mild mozzarella, you can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste.
Mouthwatering and Filling: The combination of beef, cheese, and sautéed vegetables creates a satisfying dish that will keep you and your loved ones full and happy.
Perfect for Everyone: From family dinners to game day gatherings, these Sloppy Joes are a surefire crowd-pleaser that will make you the star of the table.
If you’re in the mood for more comfort food ideas, check out my Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese for another delicious twist!
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Beef – The primary protein for the dish, delivering juiciness. You can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Provolone Cheese – Adds creaminess and rich flavor; mozzarella works too for a milder taste.
• Butter – Used for sautéing vegetables; olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
• Onions – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor if preferred.
• Bell Peppers – Adds color and crunch; feel free to switch any bell pepper or poblano for a spicy kick.
• Mushrooms – Enhances umami flavor and texture; can be omitted if desired.
• Beef Broth – Adds moisture and flavor to the mixture; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a desirable consistency; all-purpose flour is a possible substitute but may alter texture.
• Ketchup – Provides sweetness and tang; barbecue sauce can offer a unique twist.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds depth of flavor; soy sauce can be substituted if desired.
Let’s get started on crafting this dish that embodies the cozy comfort of Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to get nice and hot. Add your ground beef to the skillet, spreading it into an even layer without stirring for about 3-4 minutes. This will help achieve a lovely caramelization; look for a rich brown color on the beef before flipping and breaking it apart.
Step 2: Set Aside the Meat
Once the ground beef is beautifully browned, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This allows the flavorful bits left in the pan to impart extra taste to the vegetables that will follow, so don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt a couple tablespoons of butter over medium heat, allowing it to froth. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté undisturbed for about 1-2 minutes until they start to take on a little color, then stir to combine and continue cooking until softened, roughly 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth and cornstarch until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet. Add in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to enhance the savory goodness of your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Stir the mixture well to combine all the delightful flavors, then bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it clings beautifully to the meat and veggies, creating a hearty filling.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped provolone cheese. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and creates a creamy coating around the beef and vegetables. This step adds that delightful cheesy element, making your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes irresistibly delicious.
Step 7: Serve on Buns
While the filling is cooling slightly, toast your brioche buns in the same skillet or in a toaster until golden. Generously spoon the thick, cheesy beef mixture onto the warm buns, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Serve immediately and get ready to share this comforting dish with family and friends.
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe to make it truly yours, bringing delightful flavors and textures to life!
Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for turkey to create a lighter, leaner version without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food guilt-free.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist that packs a punch. Each cheese adds its own personality to the dish!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the mixture for an exciting heat that elevates traditional flavors. If you’re a fan of spicy food, this is a must-try!
Veggie Delight: Substitute mushrooms with roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a delightful earthiness that complements the dish beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how flavorful it becomes!
BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet twist that takes your Joes to a whole new level of yum! This variation is perfect for those summer barbecues.
Gluten-Free Buns: Opt for gluten-free buns to cater to dietary restrictions without compromising taste or texture. Everyone deserves to enjoy this comforting dish!
Make it Vegetarian: Use lentils or black beans as a base instead of meat for a hearty yet wholesome twist that still delivers on flavor. Enjoy this comfort food without meat!
If you’re hungry for more inspiration, check out my delicious Cream Cheese Squares or explore how to use leftovers creatively with Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese. Each option will bring you one step closer to a satisfying meal!
How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Fridge: Store any leftover Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the mixture moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filling in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the filling in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also use a microwave, stirring every minute to ensure even warming.
Buns Storage: Keep your buns in a cool, dry place for up to a week, or freeze them in an airtight bag for up to 3 months; just toast before serving!
Make Ahead Options
These Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal fuss on busy nights! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the mixture and let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. To maintain quality, store the provolone cheese separately and add it just before reheating. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then stir in the cheese until melted. Spoon the mixture onto toasted brioche buns, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
What to Serve with Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Elevate your meal experience by pairing delicious sides and beverages that complement the rich and savory flavors of this hearty dish.
Crispy French Fries: Perfectly golden with a light crunch, they add a satisfying contrast to the juicy Sloppy Joes that everyone will love.
Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy side that balances the richness, adding a lovely crunch that cuts through the cheesy goodness of the sandwich.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted bread brings an irresistible aroma and a deliciously crunchy texture, making it a perfect accompaniment.
Chips and Guacamole: For a fun twist, serve tortilla chips with creamy guacamole. The fresh avocado adds an exciting flavor profile that pairs beautifully.
Sweet Potatoes Wedges: Roasted until crispy, their natural sweetness complements the savory filling, adding a delightful contrast to your plate.
Light Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens and veggies tossed in a zesty vinaigrette provides a bright, crisp component that balances the heaviness of the Sloppy Joes.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing drinks serve as the perfect thirst-quenchers, offering a citrusy contrast that enhances the dish’s bold flavors.
Chocolate Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies. Their rich, chocolaty essence will satisfy any dessert cravings after such a hearty feast.
Expert Tips for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Beef Browning: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned to enhance the flavor. Avoid stirring too soon; let it caramelize for a rich taste.
Veggie Sautéing: For optimal caramelization, sauté onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms undisturbed at first. Stir only after 1-2 minutes to achieve the best texture.
Smooth Thickening: When mixing cornstarch with beef broth, whisk thoroughly to prevent clumps. This ensures your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes have a velvety sauce.
Toasty Buns: Toast your brioche buns just before serving. This not only adds a delicious crunch but also helps hold the filling without getting soggy.
Custom Flavoring: Feel free to customize the recipe! Add jalapeños for heat or experiment with different cheeses to create your ideal version of this comfort food classic.
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
Absolutely! Look for ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 for juiciness and flavor. This will ensure your Sloppy Joes are rich and satisfying. If you’re watching your fat intake, ground turkey is an excellent leaner alternative.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store any leftover Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the mixture cool before sealing to keep it fresh and delicious!
Can I freeze the filling? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze the filling for up to 3 months! To do this, let the mixture cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out excess air and seal tightly. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating and serving.
What should I do if my Sloppy Joe filling is too runny?
If you find your filling is too runny, don’t worry! Simply mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering filling. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I make these Sloppy Joes vegetarian?
Very! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based option, like lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or beyond meat. Use vegetable broth in the sauce for added flavor, and you’ll create a delicious vegetarian version that everyone will enjoy!
Is there an alternative to provolone cheese?
Absolutely! If you’d like a different flavor, consider using mozzarella for a milder taste, or opt for sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a kick. Each cheese will bring something unique to your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes!
Ultimate Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to get nice and hot. Add your ground beef to the skillet, spreading it into an even layer without stirring for about 3-4 minutes.
- Once the ground beef is beautifully browned, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt a couple tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté undisturbed for about 1-2 minutes, then stir and continue cooking until softened, roughly 3-5 minutes.
- Return the browned beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth and cornstarch until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet. Add in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped provolone cheese until completely melted.
- Toast your brioche buns in the same skillet or in a toaster until golden, then spoon the thick, cheesy beef mixture onto the warm buns.