These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on two classic favorites! Juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and peppers come together in one messy, tasty sandwich.
They’re super easy to whip up for a quick dinner. I love serving mine with a big pile of fries on the side! Trust me, you’ll want to have napkins ready! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: You can use either ground beef or turkey. I prefer ground beef for its rich flavor, but turkey is a healthier option. If you’re vegetarian, try using a plant-based ground meat substitute for a similar texture.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. I like using yellow onions, but white onions will work too. If you’re sensitive to onions, consider using shallots or omitting them entirely.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds crunch and a bit of sweetness. Red or yellow bell peppers can be substituted if you prefer a sweeter taste. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you could use diced mushrooms instead.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone gives that classic cheesesteak flavor. If you can’t find it, mozzarella is a great substitute for its meltiness. Cheddar adds a sharper flavor if that’s your preference.
Beef Broth: Beef broth keeps the mixture juicy. Chicken broth is a suitable alternative, or for a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Consistency for the Filling?
Getting the filling just right can take practice. The goal is a thick, hearty mixture that won’t soak your buns. Here’s how to get there:
- Start by browning the meat well to develop flavors. Make sure it’s cooked through before adding veggies.
- When you add the broth, don’t rush the simmering process. Let it cook down for 5-10 minutes. This helps reduce the liquid.
- Stir in cheese off the heat; this ensures it melts perfectly into the mixture without becoming greasy.
- If it’s still too soupy, let it simmer a few more minutes without a lid to encourage evaporation.
Delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably soft and toasted)
- Optional: hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 35 minutes. A quick and tasty dinner option that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or ground turkey. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off and keep the meat in the pan.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them together for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. The veggies will add great flavor!
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell the delicious garlic aroma filling your kitchen.
4. Mix in the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well and allow it to simmer gently.
5. Let it Thicken:
Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes. This will help it thicken slightly and allow all those flavors to blend together beautifully.
6. Add Cheese:
Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded provolone cheese until it’s melted and everything is nicely combined.
7. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
To put it all together, scoop a generous amount of the beef mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted hamburger bun. If you like it spicy, drizzle a bit of hot sauce on top!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Close the buns and serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes immediately while they are still hot. Enjoy each delicious bite!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or even ground chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just make sure to sauté it thoroughly until it’s cooked through, as turkey and chicken can sometimes be drier than beef. You might want to add a bit more broth to keep the filling moist!
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these sloppy joes gluten-free, simply use gluten-free hamburger buns. Additionally, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten. The rest of the ingredients are typically safe!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time. Just let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove, and then combine with the cheese before assembling your sandwiches.
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
If provolone isn’t your style, you can easily substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese for a different flavor. Just use the same amount (1 cup shredded) and melt it into the beef mixture for a deliciously cheesy filling!
