Irresistibly Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Delight

Imagine stepping into a lively Philadelphia deli, the aroma of sizzling beef, sweet onions, and melted cheese mingling in the air. Now, picture that dynamic flavor experience transformed into a comforting, home-cooked meal—cue the Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes! This recipe is a delightful fusion of two beloved classics, marrying the savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak with the ease of traditional Sloppy Joes. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a quick dinner on the table that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.

Not only does this dish serve up a comforting taste of indulgence, but it also allows for a surprisingly efficient weeknight meal! Whether it's a busy Tuesday or a relaxed weekend gathering, everyone will adore the gooey, cheesy medley nestled in your choice of toasted brioche buns. So, are you ready to create a dish that's both hearty and hassle-free? Let’s dive into the cravings that this fusion will satisfy!

Why love Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to make, taking only 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of seared beef, sweet onions, and rich provolone cheese guarantees that every bite is bursting with mouthwatering taste.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its familiar yet unique twist, this dish is sure to win over family and friends alike.

Comforting Texture: The gooey cheese melds beautifully with the meaty filling, creating a truly satisfying meal.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with chips and pickles for a quick side or serve alongside your favorite salad for a lighter touch. For a creamy side dish, check out our Creamy Steak Pasta.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Ingredients

• Get ready to savor the magic of Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes with these essential ingredients!

For the Filling
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor for sautéing vegetables.
• White Onion – Provides a base flavor, caramelizes for sweetness.
• Green Bell Pepper – Adds texture and sweetness.
• Lean Ground Beef (90/10 blend) – Provides the meaty foundation for this savory dish.
• Beef Stock – Enhances the depth of flavor; can be substituted with water.
• Ketchup – Adds a nice sweetness and tang to the sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enriches the dish with umami and depth.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory profile and aroma.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning craftsmanship.
• Black Pepper – Adds just the right kick to balance flavors.
• Provolone Cheese – Provides that melty, cheesy goodness; divided for sauce and topping.

For the Sandwich
• Brioche Buns – The perfect base for your luscious sloppy joes; opt for store-bought or homemade for the utmost freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add 1 thinly sliced white onion and 1 finely chopped green bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 6-7 minutes until they soften but do not brown. You'll know they’re ready when the onion turns translucent and the bell pepper is tender, releasing a sweet aroma into your kitchen.

Step 2
Next, add 1 pound of lean ground beef (90/10 blend) to the skillet with the sautéed onions and bell peppers. Use a spatula to break the beef into small pieces, cooking for about 5-6 minutes until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, and watch for the beef to develop a nice, rich color that complements the sautéed veggies.

Step 3
Now, stir in ½ cup of beef stock, ¼ cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper into the meat mixture. Allow the combination to simmer for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken. The aroma should be enticing as the flavors meld together—we’re getting closer to those Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!

Step 4
As the mixture simmers, chop 8 ounces of provolone cheese into ½-inch pieces. Once the meat mixture has thickened beautifully, remove the skillet from the heat and stir the chopped cheese right into the filling until it melts through the meaty medley. This step will ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are delightfully gooey and irresistible!

Step 5
While the cheese melts into the filling, preheat your oven to broil. Slice your brioche buns in half and place them cut side up on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Once toasted, layer some provolone cheese on each bun half, then generously top with the cheesy meat mixture. Serve these luscious Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes while they're warm and gooey for the best experience!

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to infuse some heat into the filling. Feel the warmth dance on your taste buds!
Cheese Switch: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings a new character to the dish.
Mushroom Lover: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms alongside the onions and peppers for an earthy depth. Mushrooms add moisture and richness you’ll love.
Veggie Delight: Use lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian take. You won’t miss the beef with this hearty substitution!
Garlic Lovers Unite: Toss in minced fresh garlic when sautéing the veggies for an aromatic boost. The fragrance alone will tantalize your senses!
BBQ Twist: Substitute half of the ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist. It’s a game-changer for your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh chopped parsley, basil, or thyme into the meat mixture for an aromatic flair. Fresh herbs elevate every bite to a new level!
Bun Alternatives: Swap brioche buns for whole wheat or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Each choice offers a new adventure in dining!

Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Vegetable Softening: Ensure onions and bell peppers just soften—not brown. Overcooking can lead to bitterness in your sloppy joe mixture.
Meat Browning: Cook the ground beef until it's evenly browned for the best flavor. Avoid cooking it too long to prevent dryness.
Sauce Thickness: Simmer the sauce until it thickens for maximum flavor. A too-thin sauce can result in soggy buns.
Cheese Melting: Stir in the provolone just before serving for a gooey texture. Letting it melt too long can make it tough.
Storage Wisdom: Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes can be refrigerated for up to 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Store in airtight containers for freshness.

Storage Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while maintaining the drool-worthy texture.

Freezer: If you're looking to save some for later, freeze the sloppy joe mixture in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure it's completely cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of beef stock to loosen the mixture if needed.

Bun Storage: Keep brioche buns in a cool, dry place, or freeze them if you won’t use them right away. Toast fresh buns right before serving for that perfect crunch!

What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Elevate your dinner game with delightful sides that perfectly complement the cheesy, savory goodness of your messy masterpiece!

Crispy Potato Chips: A classic crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey filling. Their saltiness perfectly balances the sandwich's richness.
Dill Pickles: The tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the sloppy joes. Their crunch enhances the overall texture, providing that satisfying bite.
Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, this refreshing side offers a cool contrast to the warm sandwich, making every bite a delightful experience.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness harmonizes with the savory beef and cheese while adding a fun, crispy twist to your meal.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette introduce brightness and freshness, elevating the rich flavors of the sloppy joes.
Beer or Lemonade: Pair your meal with a chilled beverage to refresh your palate, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes.

These pairings not only highlight the flavors of the main dish but also create a wholesome, satisfying dining experience. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner even on the busiest of nights! You can prepare the meat mixture, including onions, bell peppers, and spices, up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the best quality, be sure to let it cool completely before sealing. When you're ready to serve, just reheat the mixture over medium heat until warmed through, then stir in the provolone cheese until melty. Toast your brioche buns fresh right before serving for that perfect balance of flavors and textures!

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using lean ground beef with a 90/10 blend. This gives your sloppy joes a robust meaty foundation without being overly greasy, allowing the other vibrant ingredients to shine through.

How should I store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to let the mixture cool down before placing it in the fridge to keep it fresh. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop for the best flavor retention and consistency.

Can I freeze the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes mixture?
Yes, you sure can! To freeze, let the sloppy joe mixture cool completely and then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef stock if necessary.

Why did my Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes turn out watery?
If your mixture is a bit runny, it might be due to not allowing it to simmer long enough to thicken. Aim for that 4-5 minutes of simmering time. If it still seems too thin, you can stir in a touch of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up. Always keep an eye on the heat, as well; too high can result in a burnt flavor while preventing the mixture from thickening.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Definitely! If you or someone you're serving has allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. The recipe contains dairy (from the provolone cheese) and gluten (from the brioche buns). For a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free buns, and for dairy-free, look for plant-based cheeses that melt well. Be sure to check the labels in case of cross-contamination.