If you love the hearty, cheesy goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want to enjoy it in a fun, saucy sandwich form, you’re going to adore this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe. It takes the iconic flavors of the Philly cheesesteak—tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, melted cheeses—and transforms them into a sloppy joe that’s bursting with rich, comforting tastes and just the right amount of tang. Perfect for any casual dinner or game day feast, this recipe is a flavor-packed twist that’s easy to make and sure to become a fast favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together simply but are absolutely essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that make the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe so irresistible.
- Lean ground beef: The hearty protein base that provides rich flavor and tender texture for the filling.
- Green bell pepper: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast.
- Onion: Brings sweetness and depth when caramelized with the beef.
- Garlic: Infuses the mix with a fragrant, zesty punch.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly into the beef mixture for creamy, sharp flavor.
- Provolone cheese: Provides that signature Philly cheesesteak finish with its mild, meltiness.
- Hamburger buns: Soft, sturdy vessels to hold up to the delicious sloppy joe filling.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami depth and a touch of tanginess.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle sharpness to balance the richness.
- Beef broth: Keeps the mixture moist and flavorful.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce perfectly without clumping.
- Beef bouillon: Intensifies the beefy taste for a true Philly vibe.
- Ketchup: Adds sweetness and a hint of tomato tang that rounds out the flavors.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and browning the beef evenly.
- Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle in just a bit for gentle heat and added complexity.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors to make everything pop.
- Dried oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness to the mix.
- Dried parsley: Adds a touch of herbal brightness.
- Dried basil: Complements the savory notes with a classic Italian flair.
- Paprika: Adds smokiness and a warm color tint to the filling.
- Butter or mayo for brushing (optional): Creates a golden, crisp bun exterior when toasted.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe
Step 1: Toast Your Buns
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to get that perfect toast going. Cut your hamburger buns in half and spread a light layer of butter or mayo on each one—this step helps you achieve a beautiful golden crust that adds an irresistible crunch. Bake them for about 5 minutes until toasted and slightly crispy on the edges. This simple touch elevates the whole sandwich experience by adding texture and flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Beef with Peppers and Onions
Heat up some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add your lean ground beef along with diced green bell pepper and onions. Cooking these together allows the beef to pick up the sweet, aromatic qualities of the veggies while getting a nice, even brown that’s full of delicious flavor. Browning the meat properly is key—it locks in juices and ensures the filling stays moist and deeply savory.
Step 3: Add Garlic for Extra Flavor
Once the beef and veggies are perfectly browned, stir in chopped garlic and let it cook for an additional couple of minutes. This step amplifies the savory notes and infuses everything with a wonderful aroma that signals something amazing is coming. Fresh garlic is always worth the extra effort—it’s what brings that signature punch that makes this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe truly stand out.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth with cornstarch and beef bouillon until smooth, then pour it into the skillet while stirring constantly. This mix will thicken into a luscious sauce that coats the beef perfectly, turning the filling delightfully saucy yet not soupy. This step is where all the juicy sloppy joe magic begins, capturing all the fantastic flavors in every bite.
Step 5: Season and Stir in Flavorings
Now it’s time to add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard along with your dried herbs—oregano, parsley, basil—red pepper flakes, paprika, and salt. Stir everything together well to marry those vibrant tastes and herbs with the meat sauce. Each seasoning plays its part, giving you that classic Philly cheesesteak vibe with a tangy, savory twist that keeps things interesting and truly comforting.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese
Allow the mixture to cook gently until it’s heated through and thickened to your desired consistency. Then, sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts fully into the sauce. This step is the ultimate indulgence—oozing cheesy goodness combined with the savory beef filling creates a rich harmony that’s utterly addictive and emblematic of the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe.
Step 7: Assemble and Finish with Provolone
Fill your toasted buns generously with the cheesy beef mixture and top each with slices of provolone cheese. The last touch is popping these loaded sandwiches back into the oven for about 10 minutes or until the provolone melts and bubbles nicely. This finishing bake gives a perfectly gooey, melty top that makes every bite a blissful cheese pull moment you won’t forget.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe from delicious to wow-worthy. Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkling of extra red pepper flakes add color and just a hint more flavor. You might also consider adding a few thinly sliced pickles or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra zing. These small touches create freshness and contrast that brighten the savory richness of the sloppy joe.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with classic comfort sides like crispy French fries or onion rings for that true diner vibe. If you want to keep things lighter, a crisp green salad or some coleslaw works perfectly to cut through the richness. For a fun twist, try serving with roasted sweet potato wedges or a tangy cucumber salad—anything that provides texture and balances the boldness of the sloppy joe filling.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, turn your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe into mini sliders using small buns or dinner rolls. You can also serve the beef filling over toasted Texas toast for an open-faced sandwich style that’s perfect for dipping. Another fun idea is to stuff the filling inside roasted bell peppers for a low-carb option that still delivers all the classic flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your tasty Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe, any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The beef mixture can hold well for up to 3 days, which makes it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during a busy week without sacrificing any of the original flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep the deliciousness on hand even longer, the beef filling freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently for best texture and flavor. Just remember to toast fresh buns when serving since freezing may affect their quality.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the beef mixture on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. If you’re reheating already-assembled sloppy joes with cheese, covering them loosely with foil and warming in a 350°F oven until the cheese melts and everything is hot is a great way to keep that gooey, just-made feel.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and provolone are classic choices, you can experiment with mozzarella, American cheese, or even pepper jack if you want a little extra spice. Just choose cheeses that melt well to keep the filling creamy and satisfying.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, by substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms, you can create a delicious vegetarian version. Just cook the veggies and sauce as directed and mix in your meat substitute—it will capture much of the original flavor and texture.
How spicy is the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe?
This recipe includes red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the amount based on your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce or omit the flakes altogether. If you like it fiery, feel free to add more or include a dash of hot sauce.
What type of buns work best for sloppy joes?
Soft hamburger buns with a bit of sturdiness are ideal because they hold the juicy filling well without falling apart. Brioche buns also work beautifully for a slightly sweet balance, but avoid overly soft or crumbly buns that won’t stand up to the saucy filling.
Can I prepare the meat mixture a day ahead?
Definitely! Making the beef filling a day in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling and finishing the sandwiches with fresh provolone cheese and a quick bake.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you’ll give this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe a try because it’s just such a satisfying way to enjoy all the best parts of a Philly cheesesteak in sandwich form. The combination of tender beef, cheesy, saucy goodness, and perfectly toasted buns creates an unforgettable meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and time again.
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Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe puts a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe by infusing it with the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. Ground beef is cooked with peppers, onions, and garlic, then simmered in a flavorful sauce made with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and a blend of herbs and spices. Topped with melted cheddar and provolone cheese and served on toasted buns, this hearty sandwich is perfect for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
Cheese and Bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 6 hamburger buns
- Butter or mayo for brushing buns (optional)
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Thickening and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp beef bouillon
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for toasting the buns and melting the cheese later.
- Toast the Buns: Cut the hamburger buns in half and spread a thin layer of butter or mayo on each half if desired. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes until they are lightly toasted and golden.
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef along with the diced onions and green bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare Thickening Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together beef broth, cornstarch, and beef bouillon until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the broth mixture into the skillet with the beef and vegetables while stirring continuously. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, salt, dried oregano, parsley, basil, and paprika. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook Until Thickened: Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat until it thickens and is heated through, about 5 minutes. Once thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated into the mixture.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spoon the hot beef mixture onto the toasted bun bottoms. Top each with a slice of provolone cheese.
- Melt Cheese in Oven: Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven for approximately 10 minutes or until the provolone cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Butter or mayo on the buns before toasting adds extra flavor and crispiness but can be omitted for a lighter option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Use low-sodium beef broth and ketchup to reduce overall sodium content if needed.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this recipe.
