Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes – The Ultimate Comfort Food!

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Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe with melted cheese and caramelized onions. WP

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

  • Author: Benny
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe combines the savory, cheesy goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of a sloppy joe. Packed with tender ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melty provolone cheese, this easy weeknight meal comes together in just 30 minutes. Serve it on toasted brioche buns for the ultimate family-friendly dinner!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • 4 brioche or hamburger buns
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)

Instructions

  • Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Season & Simmer: Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
  • Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the beef broth with cornstarch, then pour it into the skillet. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  • Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, place slices of provolone cheese on top, and let them melt into the beef mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  • Toast the Buns: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Toast the buns until golden brown.
  • Assemble & Serve: Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto toasted buns and serve hot.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Swap provolone for American or cheddar cheese if preferred.
  • Serve with crispy fries, a side salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
  • Use hoagie rolls instead of buns for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 30g

Introduction

If you love Philly cheesesteaks and sloppy joes, why not combine the best of both worlds? Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes take the rich, savory flavors of a classic cheesesteak—juicy ground beef, caramelized onions, peppers, and melted cheese—and turn them into a delicious, saucy sandwich.

These easy, one-pan sloppy joes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on a classic game-day meal. They’re hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all served on a soft toasted bun.

For another rich and cheesy comfort dish, check out Tini Mac and Cheese—a creamy, indulgent side that pairs perfectly with these sloppy joes!

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

For the Meat Mixture

IngredientPurpose
1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)Provides rich, juicy flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oilHelps sauté the veggies and meat.
1 small onion, finely choppedAdds natural sweetness and depth.
1 green bell pepper, dicedClassic Philly cheesesteak ingredient.
2 cloves garlic, mincedEnhances the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon saltBalances and enhances flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepperAdds mild heat.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauceDeepens the umami flavor.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)Adds a subtle smoky flavor.

For the Sloppy Joe Sauce

IngredientPurpose
½ cup beef brothAdds moisture and enhances the beefy flavor.
1 tablespoon ketchupAdds a touch of sweetness.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustardGives a slight tang and sharpness.
1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)Helps thicken the sauce.

For the Cheese & Buns

IngredientPurpose
4 slices Provolone cheese (or 1 cup shredded cheese)Melts beautifully for the perfect cheesesteak flavor.
4 hamburger buns (or brioche buns)Soft, buttery base for the sloppy joes.
1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)Adds crispiness and flavor.

💡 Tip: You can also use Cheez Whiz for an extra Philly-authentic taste!

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

  1. Add ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula.
  2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
  3. Drain excess grease, if needed, then stir in salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce

  1. Pour in beef broth, ketchup, and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine.
  2. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water, then stir into the skillet.
  3. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, until thickened and saucy.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

  1. Reduce heat to low and lay Provolone slices over the beef mixture.
  2. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir everything together for extra cheesiness.

💡 Tip: If you love extra cheese, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or Cheddar into the mix!

Step 5: Toast the Buns & Assemble

  1. Butter the inside of each hamburger bun and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Spoon a generous amount of the cheesy beef mixture onto each toasted bun.
  3. Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

💡 Tip: Add extra cheese on top before serving for a gooey, over-the-top sandwich!

Best Side Dishes & Serving Ideas

Now that your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are ready, let’s talk about the best ways to serve them! The cheesy, meaty, and saucy texture of these sloppy joes makes them perfect with crispy, creamy, or tangy side dishes. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, game-day party, or casual gathering, here are the best pairings to elevate your meal.

1. Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Want a traditional and satisfying meal? Pair your sloppy joes with these all-time favorites:

Tini Mac and Cheese – A creamy, cheesy mac & cheese that makes the ultimate comfort food pairing.
French FriesCrispy and golden brown, perfect for dipping in any extra sloppy joe sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly sweet and crunchy contrast to the rich, cheesy beef.
Potato Wedges – Thick, crispy, and hearty—a great side that soaks up all the flavors.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve your fries with homemade garlic aioli or spicy mayo for extra flavor!

Light & Fresh Sides

Balance the richness of Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes with something refreshing:

Coleslaw – The crunchy, creamy texture complements the sloppy joes perfectly. Try classic coleslaw or a tangy vinegar-based slaw.
Side Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and balsamic dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
Grilled Asparagus or Zucchini – A healthy and flavorful veggie side.
Pickles or Pickled Jalapeños – Adds a zesty, tangy bite to balance the cheesy beef.

💡 Pro Tip: A cold, crisp dill pickle is the perfect bite between sloppy joe bites!

Bold & Flavorful Pairings

For those who love big flavors, try these sides:

Cajun Boil Party Guide – A bold, spicy seafood dish that pairs perfectly with the cheesesteak flavors.
Loaded Cheese Fries – Topped with melted cheese, bacon, and scallions, these take your meal to the next level.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Crispy, cheesy, and packed with garlic flavor.
Jalapeño Poppers – A spicy, cheesy appetizer that complements the sloppy joes.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes open-faced over fries or mashed potatoes for a fork-and-knife version!

2. The Best Buns for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

A great bun makes all the difference! The meat mixture is juicy and cheesy, so you need a soft yet sturdy bun that can hold everything together.

Best Bun Choices:

🥖 Brioche Buns – Buttery and soft, yet holds up to the saucy filling.
🥯 Pretzel Buns – Adds a slightly salty, chewy texture.
🍞 Toasted Hoagie Rolls – Classic Philly Cheesesteak vibes.
🍔 Sesame Seed Buns – Light, airy, and slightly crunchy.

💡 Pro Tip: Toasting the buns with butter or garlic butter enhances the flavor and prevents them from getting soggy.

3. Drink Pairings for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

No meal is complete without a refreshing drink to wash it down!

🥤 Iced Tea or Lemonade – A sweet & tangy balance to the rich beef.
🍺 Craft Beer or Lager – The carbonation and malt flavors pair perfectly.
🥶 Milkshakes – A creamy, sweet contrast that cools things down! Try vanilla, chocolate, or salted caramel.

💡 Pro Tip: If you love sweet & spicy flavors, try serving with a spicy mango or jalapeño lemonade!

4. How to Store & Reheat Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this recipe reheats beautifully!

Storage MethodHow Long?Instructions
RefrigeratorUp to 3 daysStore beef mixture in an airtight container.
FreezerUp to 2 monthsFreeze in portions in freezer-safe bags.

How to Reheat Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

🔥 Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
🔥 Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of broth.
🔥 Oven: Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F for 15 minutes.

💡 Pro Tip: If reheating frozen sloppy joe meat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

5. Turning Leftovers into New Meals!

Got extra Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe meat? Here are creative ways to repurpose it:

🥙 Stuffed Peppers – Spoon the meat into hollowed-out bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake!
🌮 Philly Cheesesteak Tacos – Load into soft tortillas and drizzle with cheese sauce.
🍕 Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe Pizza – Spread over pizza dough, top with mozzarella, and bake!
🥔 Stuffed Baked Potatoes – Fill a baked potato with the cheesy meat mixture.

💡 Pro Tip: You can also use leftover meat to make Rockfish Recipes Guide inspired surf & turf tacos!

Final Thoughts on Serving Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Classic sides like fries & mac and cheese keep things comforting.
Fresh sides like coleslaw & salad balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
Bold & spicy pairings like Cajun seafood bring a fun twist.
The right bun & drink choices make this meal even better.

For more hearty, delicious meals, check out:

Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes feast!

Melted Provolone cheese over Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe meat in a skillet

Variations & Pro Tips for the Best Sloppy Joes

  1. Chicken Philly Sloppy Joes – Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey and use chicken broth instead of beef broth.
  2. Spicy Philly Sloppy Joes – Add sliced jalapeños and a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
  3. Mushroom Philly Sloppy Joes – Sauté chopped mushrooms with the onions and peppers for a heartier, umami-packed bite.
  4. Keto/Low-Carb Philly Sloppy Joes – Serve the beef mixture over lettuce wraps or roasted portobello mushrooms instead of buns.

FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well—just use chicken broth instead of beef broth for better flavor.

2. What’s the best cheese for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

  • Provolone – Mild, creamy, and melts perfectly.
  • Cheez Whiz – Classic for an authentic Philly taste.
  • Mozzarella – Extra gooey and stretchy.
  • White American cheese – Ultra-melty and creamy.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and veggies first, then add all ingredients (except cheese) to a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cheese before serving.

4. Can I serve this with seafood?

Yes! Try pairing it with Rockfish Recipes Guide for a surf-and-turf-style meal.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. They’re easy to make, packed with melted cheese, and perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings.

For more delicious, hearty meals, check out:

Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the ultimate comfort food in under 30 minutes!

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