Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a delicious fusion of two favorite comfort foods: the classic Philly cheesesteak and the beloved sloppy joe. This recipe combines juicy ground beef, sautéed peppers, and onions with a tangy sauce, all topped with melted cheese on a soft toasted bun. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 8 toasted burger buns or brioche buns
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving a little bit in the pan to cook the vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Add the balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and stir well to fully incorporate the liquids into the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
- Place the provolone or mozzarella slices over the beef mixture in the skillet, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
- Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted burger buns or brioche buns.
- Place the assembled sloppy joes on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sandwiches cool slightly.
- Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes hot, with your favorite sides like fries, a green salad, or coleslaw.
Cook’s Notes
- Cheese: Provolone cheese is traditional for Philly cheesesteaks, but mozzarella or even cheddar can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Buns: Toasting the buns adds a nice crunch and helps prevent them from getting soggy with the beef mixture.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a slight tang and depth of flavor to the sauce, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Variations
Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Mushroom Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the vegetable mix for a richer, earthier flavor.
Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Serve the beef mixture over a bed of sautéed spinach or in lettuce wraps instead of buns for a low-carb option.
Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe Sliders
Use slider buns instead of regular-sized buns to make mini versions, perfect for appetizers or parties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the mixture on the stovetop and assemble the sloppy joes just before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Yes, the beef mixture can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
These sloppy joes pair well with classic sides like French fries, onion rings, potato salad, or a simple green salad.
5. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit the flavor of the meat.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a delicious, hearty meal that combines the best of two classic dishes. With juicy ground beef, flavorful peppers and onions, and melted cheese all on a toasted bun, this dish is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these sloppy joes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful and easy-to-make dish!
