Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

If you're a fan of both Philly cheesesteaks and sloppy joes, you're in for a treat! This recipe combines the best of both worlds into a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Packed with flavorful beef, melted cheese, sautéed onions and peppers, and served on a soft bun, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or looking for something fun to cook over the weekend, Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes will satisfy your cravings. Read on to learn how to whip up this mouthwatering dish step by step.

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What Are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a mashup of two classic American sandwiches—the Philly cheesesteak and the sloppy joe. The Philly cheesesteak, originating from Philadelphia, is traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and provolone cheese on a hoagie roll. The sloppy joe, on the other hand, is a loose meat sandwich made with ground beef, onions, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, usually served on a hamburger bun.

In this recipe, we combine the savory elements of a Philly cheesesteak with the saucy, satisfying texture of sloppy joes. The result is a flavorful, cheesy, and slightly messy sandwich that’s as fun to eat as it is to make!

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

To make these delicious sandwiches, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef: The base of this dish, providing the rich, savory flavor we love in both sloppy joes and Philly cheesesteaks.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the veggies.
• 1 medium onion, diced: A key component of any Philly cheesesteak, adding sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a slight crunch and a fresh flavor that complements the beef.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional): Mushrooms are not always included in traditional Philly cheesesteaks, but they add a great earthy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Brings a touch of sweetness and tang to balance the savory beef.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and richness to the meat mixture.
• ½ cup beef broth: Helps keep the mixture moist and adds more beefy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): To thicken the sauce, if desired.
• 4 slices provolone cheese: Classic Philly cheesesteak cheese, known for its creamy, slightly sharp taste.
• 4 hamburger buns or hoagie rolls: Serve the meat mixture on these soft, pillowy rolls.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the meat and veggies.

Ingredients List for the Sauce

Though Philly cheesesteaks don’t traditionally have a sauce like sloppy joes, you can create a delicious, slightly tangy sauce to coat the ground beef mixture. Here’s what you need for the sauce:

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a bit of zest and complexity to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Helps create a rich, deep flavor that complements the beef.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a little extra kick of savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Optional, but adds creaminess and helps to bind the sauce together.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. The flavor will be a little different, but still delicious.
• Cheese options: If you’re not a fan of provolone, try using American cheese, cheddar, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Low-carb option: Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes on lettuce wraps instead of buns for a low-carb or gluten-free option.
• Add spice: If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce.
• Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or use lentils to create a hearty vegetarian version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes is straightforward and only requires a few simple steps. Here’s how you can prepare them:

1. Prepare the vegetables: Begin by dicing the onion and green bell pepper. If you’re using mushrooms, slice them as well.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Break the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, tomato paste, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to create a smooth, tangy sauce.
5. Combine the ingredients: Return the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce over the meat and vegetable mixture, and stir to combine. Add the beef broth, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the mixture is too thin, you can add cornstarch to thicken it.
6. Melt the cheese: Lay the slices of provolone cheese on top of the meat mixture, and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt completely, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Assemble the sandwiches: Once the cheese is melted, spoon the beef and veggie mixture onto the hamburger buns or hoagie rolls. Serve immediately.

How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the beef: Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet until fully browned. This is the foundation of your sloppy joe mixture.
2. Sauté the veggies: Onions, peppers, and mushrooms should be sautéed until soft, which helps to release their natural sweetness and build a rich flavor base.
3. Mix the sauce: The ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and other seasonings come together to create a flavorful sauce that ties the whole dish together.
4. Simmer the mixture: Let the beef, veggies, and sauce simmer together, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Melt the cheese: Place provolone cheese on top and let it melt into the mixture, making the dish irresistibly cheesy.
6. Serve hot: Assemble on soft buns, and your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are ready to enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: Make sure to cook the beef just until it’s browned. Overcooking can dry it out, making the texture less appealing.
• Skipping the draining step: Be sure to drain the fat from the beef after browning. Leaving excess fat can make the sandwich greasy.
• Not sautéing the veggies long enough: To get the full flavor from your onions and peppers, make sure they’re soft and slightly caramelized.
• Using the wrong cheese: Provolone is the best choice for a traditional Philly cheesesteak flavor. Other cheeses may work, but provolone gives the best authentic taste.
• Forgetting to toast the buns: Toasting the buns can add a slight crunch, preventing them from getting too soggy from the beef mixture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes even more irresistible, pay attention to how you serve and present them. Here are some tips:

• Toast the buns: Lightly toasting the hamburger buns or hoagie rolls adds a slight crunch, which contrasts nicely with the saucy meat.
• Serve with sides: Pair the sandwiches with classic sides like French fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
• Keep it casual: Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun, casual dish. Serve them on paper plates with plenty of napkins for a laid-back meal.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are best served hot and fresh, right off the stove. Here are some ideas for serving:

• On hamburger buns: This is the classic way to serve sloppy joes. Soft, pillowy hamburger buns hold the beef mixture perfectly.
• On hoagie rolls: For a more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, use hoagie rolls, which are sturdier and can hold more filling.
• In a lettuce wrap: For a low-carb option, serve the meat mixture in crisp lettuce leaves instead of buns.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Rustic style: Serve the sandwiches on a wooden cutting board with some fries or chips on the side.
• Cheese drizzle: For an extra cheesy look, melt additional cheese and drizzle it over the top of the sandwiches before serving.
• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives can add a pop of color to your dish.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe Tips

• Don’t skip the cheese: The melted provolone is essential to giving the dish its authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
• Make it ahead: The beef mixture can be made a day ahead and reheated. Just add the cheese and buns when you're ready to serve.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the beef mixture as you cook, and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially with salt and pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove before adding cheese.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well in this recipe and makes for a leaner alternative to ground beef.

3. What other toppings can I add?
You can add jalapeños for heat, sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor, or even a slice of pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free hamburger buns or serve the mixture in lettuce wraps.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that blends the best of two classic sandwiches. With savory beef, sautéed vegetables, melted provolone cheese, and a slightly tangy sauce, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time you’re craving something comforting and indulgent. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the unbeatable combination of Philly cheesesteak flavors with the comfort of sloppy joes!

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