If you love comfort food that combines the best of two worlds, you’re in for a treat with these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes! This twist on the classic sloppy joe elevates your weeknight dinner game with the savory flavors of Philly cheesesteak—think tender, seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and gooey provolone—melted into a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every nook of your toasted bun. As a beginner-friendly recipe, it only takes about 15 minutes of prep, 25 minutes of cooking, and a brief 5-minute rest time before you’re ready to dive in. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish clocks in at around 650 calories per serving—hearty enough to satisfy big appetites and sure to win over picky eaters with its irresistible cheesy goodness.
What makes these Sloppy Joes stand out isn’t just the combination of beef and cheese but the way each ingredient harmonizes to deliver layers of flavor. You’ll love how the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce add a subtle umami boost, while mushrooms contribute an earthy depth. Swapping ground turkey for beef offers a leaner option without sacrificing taste. Once you spoon this creamy, savory mixture onto a golden, butter-toasted bun, your kitchen fills with a delicious buzz that makes everyone lean in for a bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving a cozy meal at home, these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are your new go-to for an easy dinner or an indulgent lunch that tastes like a special occasion.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Every standout recipe starts with the right ingredients, and these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are no exception. Below are the stars of the show—each playing a vital role in delivering that messy, cheesy, meaty perfection you crave.
- Ground beef or ground turkey: Provides the savory, protein-packed base. Beef delivers classic richness, while turkey offers a lighter bite without skimping on flavor.
- Olive oil: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when searing the meat and veggies over medium-high heat.
- Onion: Brings a sweet, aromatic foundation that softens as it sautes, melding beautifully with the beef.
- Green bell pepper: Adds bright, vegetal crunch and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese.
- Mushrooms: Lend an earthy, umami-packed punch that deepens every mouthful.
- Garlic: Offers sharp, fragrant notes that cut through the creamy sauce once minced and cooked briefly.
- Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a tangy, slightly smoky dimension that highlights the meaty flavors.
- Soy sauce: Boosts umami complexity and adds a savory edge.
- Salt: Enhances all flavors, ensuring every bite pops.
- Black pepper: Contributes just a hint of heat to contrast the creamy elements.
- Beef broth: Forms the liquid base, providing savory depth and helping the sauce reach the perfect sloppy consistency.
- Heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth, velvety texture that binds all ingredients together.
- Provolone cheese: Melts into silky ribbons for that signature Philly cheesesteak stretch.
- Cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and extra cheesiness, elevating the flavor profile.
- Hamburger buns: Serve as the sturdy vessel to hold all that cheesy goodness—best when lightly toasted.
- Butter: Used to toast the buns, giving them a golden, crispy edge and a buttery flavor boost.
HOW TO MAKE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Let’s turn these ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece! Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process, ensuring each component is cooked to perfection and the final result is a sloppy, cheesy delight.
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Continue until the meat is evenly browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the mixture lean.
2. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant and beginning to soften—don’t let it burn!
4. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine, ensuring every morsel of beef and veggie is coated in the savory seasoning.
5. Add the beef broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and concentrate in flavor.
6. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until fully incorporated, then let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
7. Once the sauce is luscious and thick, sprinkle in the provolone and cheddar cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and gooey.
8. While the cheese is melting, butter the insides of the hamburger buns. Heat a separate skillet over medium, then place the buns buttered-side down. Toast for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crispy—this creates a delicious textural contrast.
9. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture generously onto the toasted buns and serve immediately. For extra flair, garnish with more cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or a dash of red pepper flakes.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Now that you have these golden, cheese-laden sandwiches ready to go, let’s talk about making them shine at the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a solo comfort-food feast, these serving tips will take your meal to the next level.
- Loaded fries: Pile crispy oven-baked fries on a platter and top them with any leftover cheesesteak sloppy joe mixture. Finish with a drizzle of cheese sauce for an over-the-top fries supreme experience.
- Crisp coleslaw: Serve a side of homemade coleslaw tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The bright, crunchy slaw cuts through the richness of the sandwich, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Pickle spear: Add crunchy dill pickles or a tangy pickle spear on the side. The acidity balances the creamy, savory notes and adds a satisfying crunch between bites.
- Beer pairing: Grab an ice-cold lager or amber ale to complement the hearty spices and gooey cheese. The carbonation helps cleanse the palate, while the malt undertones echo the caramelized flavors in the dish.
HOW TO STORE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Leftovers can be just as delightful as the freshly made batch if stored properly. Keeping your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes at peak quality requires a few simple steps to lock in flavor and texture for days to come.
- Refrigeration: Transfer any cooled leftover filling into an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to revive the creamy sauce.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled filling in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
- Separate components: If you anticipate having leftovers, toast your buns and store them separately from the filling. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy. Reheat buns in a toaster oven while warming the filling.
- Portion control: Freeze individual portions in small containers or bags so you can pull out exactly what you need. This makes lunch prep a breeze and avoids repeated thawing and refreezing.
CONCLUSION
Bringing together the bold flavors of Philly cheesesteak and the casual fun of sloppy joes, this recipe proves that comfort food can be both simple to make and extraordinary to eat. From the tender, well-seasoned ground beef (or lean turkey) to the creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite, each component works in harmony to deliver a truly memorable meal. The golden, buttered buns add that final touch of crunch and richness, ensuring every mouthful is a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your kitchen adventures, these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are an easy, beginner-friendly way to impress anyone at your table. Don’t forget, you can print this article and save it for later reference whenever you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe. And if you’re curious about more details, scroll down to check out our FAQ below!
I’d love to hear how your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes turned out—did you add a spicy twist with red pepper flakes, or layer on extra cheese? Feel free to leave comments, share questions, or request tweaks if you’re looking to customize the recipe further. Your experiences help everyone in our cooking community, and I’m here to help you troubleshoot or celebrate your kitchen victories. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, messy bite!
PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Description
Rich and hearty, these Sloppy Joes combine savory ground beef, sautéed veggies, creamy cheese, and toasted buns for a mouthwatering meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
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Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
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Add the beef broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
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Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until everything is well combined. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
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Once the mixture has thickened, sprinkle in the provolone and cheddar cheeses. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
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While the cheese mixture is melting, butter the hamburger buns on the inside. Heat a separate skillet over medium heat and toast the buns, buttered side down, until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted buns and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Note
- You can add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your sloppy joes.
- For an extra cheesy version, try adding a layer of melted mozzarella cheese before serving.
- You can swap the provolone and cheddar for other cheese blends like Swiss, American, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick!
