These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring a fun twist to the classic with juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and savory peppers. They’re messy, but oh-so-good!
Who doesn’t love a meal you can eat with your hands? I can’t help but savor every bite while thinking, “Why don’t I make these every week?” They’re easy and always crowd-pleasers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is best to keep the dish hearty without being too greasy. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone is great for that classic cheesesteak flavor. If it’s hard to find, mozzarella works well too, or you could use cheddar for a sharper taste. Mix and match cheeses for added depth!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is perfect for sautéing due to its flavor and health benefits. If you’re out, canola oil or avocado oil are great alternative options to keep it simple.
Beef Broth: Beef broth adds richness to the sloppy joe mix. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead. Homemade bone broth is fantastic too if you have some on hand!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Sloppy Joes?
The key to a flavorful sloppy joe starts with the sautéed vegetables and proper seasoning. Cooking onions and peppers until softened builds a tasty base for the meat. Don’t rush the process! Here’s how to maximize flavor:
- Use medium heat to sauté onions and peppers until they’re soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for just a minute; it adds a wonderful aroma.
- Season the beef well while it cooks, and let the mixture simmer so the flavors deepen.
Remember to taste as you go! Adding a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make a big difference.
How Can I Make Perfectly Melted Cheese on Top?
Melting cheese under the broiler gives that delicious, gooey finish to your sloppy joes. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the broiler while your sloppy joe mixture simmers to save time.
- Spread the sloppy joe mixture evenly on the buns on a baking sheet.
- Top it generously with shredded provolone cheese.
- Watch closely as you broil for 2-3 minutes; it can burn quickly!
Once the cheese is melted and bubbling, you’re ready to serve! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joes:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the meat mixture, followed by about 5 minutes broiling the cheesy buns. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they are softened and the onion turns translucent. This step really brings out the flavors!
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook everything together until the beef is browned and fully cooked—this should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep it light!
3. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the juicy flavor! Pour in the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard into the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to let all those wonderful flavors meld together. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Prepare the Buns:
While the meat is simmering, preheat your oven broiler. Split the hamburger buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Once the meat mixture is ready, spoon it generously onto each bun and sprinkle the provolone cheese on top. Get ready for some gooey goodness!
5. Broil the Sloppy Joes:
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly—delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are ready! Serve them right away and enjoy your yummy creation!
Can I Use a Different Kind of Cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, you can substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on how cheesy you’d like your Sloppy Joes.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes by adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, sliced jalapeños, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper for best results!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You can assemble fresh buns for a delicious meal the next day!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use gluten-free hamburger buns or lettuce wraps as a substitute for the buns. Also, check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Enjoy customizing this dish to fit your dietary needs!
