Imagine a messy and tasty twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak! These Sloppy Joes are packed with juicy beef, melted cheese, and colorful peppers all nestled in a soft bun.
I love how easy they are to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, who can resist a meal that lets you eat with your hands, right? Just serve with some crispy fries, and you’re all set for a fun dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is essential for a hearty texture. If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These vegetables add flavor and color. You can swap the green bell pepper for red or yellow for a sweeter taste. For a low-carb option, use sautéed mushrooms instead.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone melts beautifully. If you’re not a fan, mozzarella or cheddar work well too. For a little extra zing, pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick!
How Do I Get the Perfect Sloppy Joe Mixture?
The heart of this dish lies in the sloppy joe mixture. To achieve the best flavor and texture, follow these steps:
- Start by cooking the onions and bell pepper until they’re soft, as this builds a solid flavor base.
- When browning the beef, make sure it’s cooked thoroughly, breaking it apart as you go for an even texture.
- Add your sauces and broth, then let everything simmer. This step helps all the flavors to meld together nicely!
Keep an eye on the simmering time; it thickens the sauce just right. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices provolone cheese
For the Buns:
- 4-6 brioche buns or sandwich rolls
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking and broiling. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes total—perfect for a quick family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic and Beef:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until it’s nice and fragrant. Then, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked all the way through.
3. Create the Flavorful Sauce:
Now, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help the flavors combine and the sauce to thicken a little.
4. Prepare the Buns and Cheese:
While the mixture is simmering, preheat your broiler. Split the brioche buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Scoop the sloppy joe mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Then, place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the mixture.
5. Broil the Sloppy Joes:
Pop the baking sheet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Take the baking sheet out of the oven. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Place the top half of the bun over the cheesy beef mixture, and voila—your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are ready to enjoy!
Serve them immediately and relish the delightful blend of flavors. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Just keep in mind that these meats may produce less fat, so you might want to add a teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet before cooking to help with moisture and flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for either crumbled tempeh, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You’ll want to adjust the broth and seasonings slightly to ensure it’s flavorful, adding a bit more Worcestershire sauce (if using a vegetarian brand) for depth.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the mixture moist.
Can I Prepare the Meat Mixture in Advance?
Yes, you can make the meat mixture ahead of time! Prepare it up to the simmering step, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving!
