Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Classic Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe – Family Favorite

Comfort food takes an exciting turn with these mouthwatering philly cheese steak sloppy joes that blend classic sandwich flavors into one irresistible meal.

The hearty combination delivers a punch of rich, savory goodness in every single bite.

Tender ground beef sizzles with caramelized onions and bell peppers, creating a robust filling that captures the essence of a traditional Philly cheesesteak.

Melted cheese cascades over the meat, adding a creamy texture that elevates this dish from simple to spectacular.

Each sandwich promises a messy, delightful experience that transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into something extraordinary.

The blend of textures and flavors guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to satisfy those serious comfort food cravings with this incredible twist on a beloved classic.

What You’ll Need for Philly Sloppy Joes

Main Proteins:
  • Ground Beef: A juicy and flavorful base for this delicious sloppy joe.
Dairy:
  • Provolone Cheese: A creamy cheese that adds rich, melty goodness.
  • Butter: Smooth ingredient for sautéing vegetables.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onions, Bell Peppers, Mushrooms: A classic trio of vegetables that bring depth and texture.
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Beef Broth, Cornstarch: A perfect combination for creating a thick, luxurious sauce.
  • Ketchup, Worcestershire Sauce, Salt, Pepper: Flavor-boosting seasonings that bring excitement to the dish.
Bread:
  • Brioche Hamburger Buns: Soft and slightly sweet buns that cradle the sloppy joe filling.

Making Philly Cheese Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Sizzle the Ground Beef

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Drop in the ground beef and let it develop a deep brown crust by cooking undisturbed for 3-4 minutes.

Chop and break the meat, continuing to cook until about half the beef shows a rich caramelized surface.

Transfer the beef to a separate plate, keeping the flavorful fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Caramelize the Veggie Mixture

Melt butter in the same skillet.

Add the chopped ingredients:
  • Onions
  • Bell peppers
  • Mushrooms

Allow the vegetables to brown without stirring for 1-2 minutes, then mix and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they turn golden and soft.

Step 3: Reunite Beef and Vegetables

Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the caramelized vegetables, mixing thoroughly.

Step 4: Create the Signature Sauce

In a small cup, whisk beef broth and cornstarch until smooth.

Pour into the skillet along with:
  • Ketchup
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Stir well and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and most liquid disappears.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Remove skillet from heat.

Stir in chopped Provolone cheese until it completely melts and coats the beef and vegetables with a creamy, gooey layer.

Step 6: Build and Devour the Sloppy Joes

Heap the cheesy beef mixture onto toasted brioche hamburger buns.

Serve immediately and prepare for a mouthwatering comfort food explosion!

Key Tips for Sloppy Joe Success

  • Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a deep, rich crust that enhances the overall taste and complexity of the dish.
  • Allow onions, peppers, and mushrooms to sit undisturbed in the skillet to create beautiful caramelized edges that add depth and sweetness.
  • Whisk cornstarch with beef broth separately before adding to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the meat.
  • Remove skillet from heat when adding Provolone to prevent overcooking and create a luxurious, creamy cheese coating that binds all ingredients together.
  • Toast brioche buns for extra crunch and stability, helping to support the hearty and juicy Sloppy Joe mixture without falling apart.

How to Save and Reheat Sloppy Joes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer the mixture to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Seal tightly, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Warm the sloppy joe mixture in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Add a splash of beef broth to restore moisture if needed.
  • Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent dryness.

What to Serve with Philly Sloppy Joes

  • Craft the Perfect Beer Pairing: Grab a crisp amber ale or hoppy IPA that cuts through the rich, meaty flavors and complements the cheesy goodness of the Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes.
  • Elevate with Wine Selection: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Malbec, whose bold fruit notes and slight spiciness will match the robust beef and caramelized vegetables.
  • Create a Refreshing Side Drink: Mix a classic Philadelphia-inspired Arnold Palmer with iced tea and lemonade, offering a tangy, cooling contrast to the hearty sandwich's intense flavors.
  • Design a Complementary Salad Companion: Prepare a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette dressing, providing a fresh, acidic counterpoint that helps balance the heavy, decadent Sloppy Joe mixture.

Fun Flavors for Sloppy Joe Variations

  • Lean Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, lower-fat version that still delivers rich flavor and protein.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Substitute beef with crumbled plant-based meat alternatives like Beyond Meat or use finely chopped portobello mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free option.
  • Low-Carb Transformation: Serve the cheesy beef mixture over cauliflower rice or inside lettuce wraps instead of traditional hamburger buns for a gluten-free and carb-conscious meal.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like vegan provolone or nutritional yeast to create a creamy texture for those with lactose intolerance or dairy restrictions.

FAQs

  • What makes this recipe different from traditional Sloppy Joes?

This version combines the classic Sloppy Joe with Philly Cheese Steak flavors, using Provolone cheese, bell peppers, and onions for an elevated twist on the traditional recipe.

  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a similar taste and texture.

  • Is this recipe spicy or kid-friendly?

The recipe is mild and not spicy, making it perfect for families and children who enjoy hearty, cheesy meals. You can easily adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

  • Do I need any special cooking skills to make this recipe?

No special skills are required. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it great for home cooks of all experience levels.

Why Philly Sloppy Joes Are a Hit

  • Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal: Perfect for busy families who want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Flavor Explosion: Combines the classic Philly cheesesteak with the beloved sloppy joe, creating a mouthwatering fusion that guarantees excitement at the dinner table.
  • One-Skillet Dish: Minimizes cleanup with a simple cooking process that develops rich, deep flavors in just one pan, making cooking and washing up a breeze.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Delivers a hearty, cheesy meal that appeals to both kids and adults, transforming an ordinary evening into a memorable dining experience.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes deliver classic sandwich flavors in a messy, irresistible comfort meal. Rich beef, melted provolone, and caramelized peppers create a delicious twist on two beloved American classics that will satisfy hungry diners.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) lean ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  • 8 ounces (8 oz) brown mushrooms, minced

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 8 ounces (8 oz) Provolone cheese slices, chopped

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 2 tablespoons (2 tbsp) butter
  • 2 tablespoons (2 tbsp) ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon (1 tbsp) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1/2 tsp) Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1/2 tsp) freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon (1 tbsp) cornstarch
  • 1 cup beef broth

Bread:

  • 6 brioche hamburger buns

Instructions

  1. Preheat a robust cast-iron skillet to medium-high temperature, creating an ideal surface for developing deep flavor profiles in the ground beef.
  2. Introduce the beef to the hot skillet, allowing a rich mahogany crust to form underneath. Strategically fragment the meat and continue cooking until approximately half exhibits a tantalizing caramelized exterior.
  3. Extract the beautifully seared beef from the skillet, preserving the rendered fat for subsequent vegetable sautéing.
  4. Melt butter into the same skillet, then gracefully introduce diced onions, vibrant bell peppers, and finely chopped mushrooms. Allow these aromatics to develop golden edges through undisturbed browning.
  5. Reintegrate the perfectly seasoned beef into the vegetable medley, creating a harmonious flavor foundation.
  6. Craft a smooth slurry by whisking beef broth with cornstarch until completely integrated. Pour this mixture into the skillet alongside ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and complementary seasonings.
  7. Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the sauce transforms into a luxurious, clingy consistency that enthusiastically embraces the meat and vegetables.
  8. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in chopped Provolone, allowing the cheese to melt into a silky, indulgent coating.
  9. Lovingly nestle the steaming, cheesy mixture atop toasted brioche buns, creating an irresistible culinary masterpiece ready to be devoured.

Notes

  • Let the beef develop a deep crust by resisting the urge to stir constantly, creating more intense flavor profiles with caramelized edges.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for healthier or vegetarian alternatives without sacrificing the signature rich taste.
  • Pat meat dry before cooking to ensure maximum browning and prevent steaming, which helps achieve that delectable crispy exterior.
  • Choose low-sodium beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to control salt content, making the dish more diet-friendly for those monitoring sodium intake.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star