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As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of sautéing onions and mushrooms flooded my senses, instantly transporting me to a bustling Philly street corner. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes—a fun and hearty twist on two classic favorites. This recipe not only brings the famous flavors of the iconic sandwich to your dinner table, but it also allows for quick prep time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Packed with savory ground beef, melty provolone cheese, and a medley of veggies, these sloppy joes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game? Let’s dive into this scrumptious journey together!
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Why not try these sloppy joes tonight?
Unique Flavor Fusion: The Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes masterfully combine the rich, savory essence of a cheesesteak with the comforting heartiness of sloppy joes.
Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Serve these delicious sandwiches at your next gathering and watch them disappear as friends and family rave about the incredible flavors.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like jalapeños or avocado for an extra twist. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe for dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
The combo of gooey provolone and hearty beef creates an irresistible dish that makes dinner feel special. Don’t forget to check out my other comfort food recipes, like homemade mac and cheese or classic beef tacos, to keep your meal lineup exciting!
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Ingredients
• Get ready to savor every bite with these key ingredients!
For the Filling
• 1 lb ground beef – choose lean ground beef for a balanced flavor and texture.
• 1 tablespoon butter – adds richness and depth to the sautéed vegetables.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the savory taste.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped – contributes sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped – adds umami and a meaty texture, complementing the beef.
• 1 cup beef broth – provides moisture and enhances the beefy flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens the mixture for a hearty consistency.
• ½ cup ketchup – offers sweetness and a classic touch to the sloppy joe sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – elevates the savory flavor with its unique tangy depth.
• Salt, to taste – highlights and balances all the flavors.
• Pepper, to taste – adds a welcome spice that livens up every bite.
• 1 cup provolone cheese, chopped – melts beautifully for that rich, cheesy finish.
• 4 brioche buns, toasted – the perfect foundation for these flavorful sloppy joes.
With these simple yet delicious ingredients, you’re all set to create memorable Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes that your family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it sear without stirring for about 3–4 minutes until it forms a deep brown crust. As you stir, look for crispy edges that indicate it's starting to caramelize. This step brings rich flavors to your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes.
Step 2: Set Aside the Beef
Once about half of the beef is caramelized, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This will allow the beef to rest while you cook the vegetables, preserving its juiciness and flavor. Keep the skillet ready for an aromatic addition to your sloppy joe filling.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms, allowing them to cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to deepen the caramelization. Stir them occasionally for another 3–4 minutes until they’re soft and golden, filling your kitchen with amazing aromas that are essential for these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes.
Step 4: Combine Beef and Veggies
Return the browned ground beef to the skillet, mixing it in with the sautéed vegetables. Ensure all the flavors meld together beautifully. This is the heart of your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes, so make sure it’s well combined for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Add Broth and Thicken
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of beef broth and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet along with ½ cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything well and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened and saucy, creating that luscious filling essential for your sloppy joes.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of chopped provolone cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency. Ensure the mixture becomes thick and cheesy, rather than soupy, adding that signature comfort to your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes.
Step 7: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Spoon the hot beef and cheese mixture generously onto toasted brioche buns. The crispy exterior of the buns contrasts beautifully with the rich filling, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve these scrumptious Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes while hot, ready to share with family or friends.
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Variations
Feel free to personalize your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes with these delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat that will excite your taste buds.
For a flavor experience that hits all the right notes, toss in some sliced jalapeños right with your veggies. The hint of spice balances beautifully with the gooey cheese! -
Veggie-Loaded: Substitute beef with 1 lb of your favorite plant-based ground meat or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.
Feel free to add in extra veggies like zucchini and spinach for added texture and nutrition without compromising that hearty feeling! -
Creamy Addition: Mix in ½ cup of cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy and velvety filling.
This variation will elevate the richness of your dish, making every bite feel indulgent and comforting, especially loved by cheesy goodness fans. -
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a refreshing contrast and aromatic flair to the filling.
These herbs add freshness that brightens the flavors, making these sloppy joes a perfect spring or summer dish! -
Cheese Experiment: Swap provolone with gooey mozzarella or sharp cheddar for a completely different cheesy experience.
Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile, giving you the freedom to play with textures and tastes. -
Toppings Galore: Pile on additional toppings like avocado, crispy bacon bits, or even coleslaw for crunch and richness.
Some crunchy coleslaw on top adds an exciting texture to your sandwiches and can balance the richness of the beef and cheese beautifully. -
Savory Sauce Mix: Experiment with BBQ sauce replace ketchup for a smoky, sweet flavor twist that will surprise your guests.
This variation brings a whole new vibe to the classic sloppy joes, ensuring they're bursting with layers of flavor that keep everyone coming back for more!
Enjoy the journey of customizing your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes! You might discover a new family favorite along the way! And if you’re still looking for more comfort food ideas, don’t miss my delicious homemade mac and cheese or classic beef tacos that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and mix it with the prepped veggies. To maintain their quality, ensure everything is cooled before refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture in a skillet, stir in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and provolone cheese until melted, then spoon it onto toasted brioche buns. This way, you'll enjoy the same delicious flavor with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
What to Serve with Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Looking to create the perfect dinner around your delightful creation?
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Crispy French Fries: The warm, crispy fries provide a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the cheesy richness of the sloppy joes. Dip them in your favorite ketchup for an extra indulgence.
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Classic Coleslaw: This refreshing side brings a zesty crunch that balances the savory flavors of the sloppy joes, while offering a creamy texture that enhances each bite.
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Garlic Butter Corn: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob adds a touch of sweetness that pairs magically with the savory, hearty filling, making your meal even more comforting.
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Pickle Chips: A tangy crunch of pickle chips contrasts nicely with the gooeyness of the sloppy joe, brightening up the whole meal experience. A must for every savory bite!
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Roasted Veggies: Colorful roasted vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, offer a nutritious, vibrant contrast while harmonizing flavors with the hearty beef filling.
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Iced Lemonade: A refreshing glass of iced lemonade cuts through the richness of the sloppy joes, providing a bright and citrusy contrast that uplifts your dining experience.
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Chocolate Brownies: Finish off your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies. Their rich chocolate flavor is the perfect treat after the savory delight of the sloppy joes.
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Brewed Iced Tea: A chilled glass of unsweetened iced tea makes for a classic pairing that refreshes without overpowering the delightful flavors of the sloppy joe.
How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Room Temperature: Keep any leftover Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.
Fridge: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Serve on fresh toasted brioche buns for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Expert Tips for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Browning the Beef: Ensure your ground beef develops a nice crust by not stirring it too soon. This deep browning enhances the flavor of your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes.
Veggie Caramelization: Allow the onions and peppers to sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring. This helps achieve a beautiful caramelization that adds depth to your dish.
Cheese Selection: Use high-quality provolone cheese for the best melting experience. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it may contain anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Check Consistency: If your mixture turns out too soupy, let it simmer longer to thicken or add a bit more cornstarch. The perfect Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes should be thick and cheesy, not runny.
Bun Choice: Toast your brioche buns just before serving to maintain their crispness. A good bun will hold up against the juicy filling without getting soggy.
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use?
I recommend using lean ground beef, ideally around 80% lean, for a balanced flavor without too much grease. This allows the rich flavors of the other ingredients to shine through, while still providing that satisfying beefy taste.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Your leftover Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes can be safely stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool to room temperature before placing them in the fridge to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze the filling, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze the filling, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
How can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you're looking to accommodate specific dietary needs, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. Additionally, choose gluten-free buns if you're avoiding gluten, and ensure other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free as well.
What if my Sloppy Joes turn out too soupy?
No worries! If your filling ends up too soupy, simply let it simmer on low heat for an additional 3–5 minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can mix a little more cornstarch with a splash of broth in a separate bowl until smooth and add it to the pot, stirring until you achieve the desired thickness.
How should I store the cooked sloppy joe mixture?
Once the sloppy joe mixture has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you're preparing ahead of time, keep the toasted buns separate until serving to maintain their crispiness!
Ultimate Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes for Comfort Food Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it sear without stirring for about 3–4 minutes until it forms a deep brown crust.
- Once about half of the beef is caramelized, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they’re soft and golden.
- Return the browned ground beef to the skillet, mixing it in with the sautéed vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of beef broth and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet along with ½ cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of chopped provolone cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency.
- Spoon the hot beef and cheese mixture generously onto toasted brioche buns and serve while hot.
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