Get ready for a fun twist on a classic dish with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes! This dish combines ground beef, melted cheese, and tasty peppers all on a soft bun. It’s messy, but oh-so-delicious!
You’ll love digging into this tasty creation, even if it means extra napkins! I like to serve mine with crispy fries on the side—because why not make it a party? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy texture. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work too, but you may lose some flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness. Yellow onions are great for this, but red onions could add a nice color. If you need a milder taste, green onions are a good choice.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds crunch and sweetness. If green is too bitter for your taste, red or yellow bell peppers are sweeter alternatives, or you can leave them out altogether.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone gives the authentic Philly taste. However, mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar can also work. Experiment with different cheeses for a twist!
Hamburger Buns: Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, perfect for these Sloppy Joes. Whole wheat or even gluten-free buns can substitute if needed.
How Do I Get the Vegetables Just Right?
Sautéing your onions and bell peppers properly is key for flavor in this recipe. Start by heating olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until they become tender.
- Make sure to stir occasionally so they don’t stick and burn.
- When you add the garlic, cook for just 1 minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt!
This step creates a flavorful base for your beef mixture, making all the difference in taste!
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner ready in about 30-35 minutes! It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nice and tender.
2. Add Garlic and Brown the Beef:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off!
3. Make the Sauce:
Once the beef is browned, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, and a bit of salt and pepper into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens up a bit.
4. Melt the Cheese:
After the mixture has thickened, reduce the heat to low and lay the slices of provolone cheese right on top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt nicely.
5. Assemble and Serve:
If you’d like, you can toast the hamburger buns for a little extra crunch. Once ready, take the bottom half of each bun and spoon the cheesy beef mixture on top. Place the top half of the bun on, and it’s time to dig in! Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley if you want to add a pop of color!
Enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink. You may want to add a bit more seasoning, as turkey can be milder in flavor compared to beef.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or finely chopped mushrooms and lentils. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll have a hearty and delicious vegetarian Philly cheesesteak sloppy joe!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Can I Freeze These Sloppy Joes?
Yes, you can freeze the sloppy joe mixture for up to 2 months! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stove or in the microwave.
