This fun twist on a classic features ground beef, melty cheese, and tasty peppers all piled into a soft bun. It’s like a Philly cheesesteak but in a super easy sloppy joe style!
I love how quick this dish comes together. Perfect for busy nights when you crave something hearty, and honestly, who can resist that gooey cheese?! It’s a real crowd-pleaser! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 will work too, but it may be less rich. Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter meal.
Onion and Green Bell Pepper: These add crunch and sweetness. If you’re not a fan of green peppers, try red or yellow ones for a sweeter taste. You can also skip them entirely or use mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese melts well and complements the beef perfectly. If you can’t find provolone, mozzarella or cheddar are great substitutes. For a vegan option, you can use dairy-free cheese shreds.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you’re avoiding it for dietary reasons, try soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute for a similar umami kick.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Melted Cheese on My Sloppy Joes?
The secret to perfectly melted cheese lies in using the broiler. After you’ve spooned the beef mixture onto the rolls, layering the cheese on top is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the broiler while you prepare the beef mixture to save time.
- Spread the filling generously on the rolls, then lay the cheese slices over the top.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
This quick burst of heat will melt the cheese beautifully while toasting the bun for a delightful crunch!
Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or more, depending on preference)
- 4 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing
Estimated Time Needed:
This recipe should take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll need approximately 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onions and green bell peppers. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes or until they become soft and translucent.
2. Add the Garlic:
Once the onions and peppers have softened, stir in the minced garlic. Cook everything together for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Don’t let it burn!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the other side. Use a spatula to break the beef apart and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Combine and Season:
If there is excess fat in the skillet, drain it out. Then, stir the vegetables back into the beef. Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well.
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and thicken the sauce a bit.
6. Prepare for Melting:
While the mixture simmers, preheat your oven broiler. Take the hoagie rolls and place the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Evenly divide the beef mixture over the bottom halves of the rolls.
7. Add the Cheese:
Top each sandwich generously with slices of provolone cheese. You can add more cheese if you love that gooey goodness!
8. Broil to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to ensure the cheese melts and the buns toast lightly without burning.
9. Assemble and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Place the top halves of the hoagie rolls on each sandwich. Serve them immediately while they’re warm and enjoy!
This easy Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes recipe combines the delicious flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a quick and simple format. Perfect for any meal, this dish is sure to be a new favorite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but you can enhance it with more seasoning if desired.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives, such as lentils, mushrooms, or a commercial meat substitute. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for the alternative you’ve chosen.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of broth to keep the mixture moist!
Can I Freeze These Sloppy Joes?
Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture for later! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
