Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes combine the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the ease and comfort of a sloppy joe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. With tender ground beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and gooey Provolone cheese all piled onto soft brioche buns, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit with the whole family. Follow this step-by-step guide to create these delicious sandwiches.
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The base of the sloppy joe, providing rich, savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding richness to the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet, mild flavor that complements the beef.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- 8 ounces brown mushrooms, finely chopped: Adds an earthy flavor and additional texture.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and tang to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavor of the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt: Seasons the beef and vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and balances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce, making it cling to the beef and vegetables.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
- 8 ounces Provolone cheese, chopped (use 6 ounces for less cheesiness): Adds a rich, melty texture that ties the sandwich together.
- 6 brioche hamburger buns: Soft and slightly sweet, these buns are perfect for holding the savory filling.
Instructions: How to Make Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, diced green bell pepper, and chopped mushrooms to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture.
Step 2: Make the Sloppy Joe Filling
- Add the Flavorings:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 cup of beef broth until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Melt the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the chopped Provolone cheese over the beef mixture. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
- Prepare the Buns:
- Lightly toast the brioche hamburger buns if desired. This will help prevent them from getting soggy when filled with the sloppy joe mixture.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half of the bun to complete the sandwich.
- Serve:
- Serve the Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes hot, with your favorite sides like French fries, a green salad, or potato chips.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Cheese Options: If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can substitute the Provolone with Swiss, American, or even a sharp Cheddar.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add additional vegetables like red bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and color.
- Storage: Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Variations of Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes
Here are some ways to customize your Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes:
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Chicken Cheesesteak Joes: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Loaded Sloppy Joes: Top the sandwiches with additional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or onions for an even heartier meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
2. What can I serve with Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes?
These sandwiches pair well with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad.
3. Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
4. How can I make the filling thicker?
If you prefer a thicker filling, you can reduce the amount of beef broth or simmer the mixture longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.
5. Can I use different types of buns?
Absolutely! While brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, you can use any type of hamburger bun, hoagie roll, or even a sturdy sandwich bread.
A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes are a delicious and comforting meal that combines the best of two classic sandwiches. With tender ground beef, savory vegetables, and melty Provolone cheese, these sloppy joes are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, these sandwiches are easy to make and packed with flavor.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy these tasty Philly Cheesesteak-Style Sloppy Joes that bring together the best of both worlds!
