Zesty Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe for Dinner Magic

Sink your teeth into a mouthwatering fusion that brings the iconic Philly cheesesteak into a sloppy joe’s delightful embrace.

This hearty recipe blends classic sandwich flavors with a messy, irresistible twist.

Tender beef sizzles with bell peppers and onions, creating a savory symphony of taste.

Melted cheese cascades over the rich meat, promising a flavor explosion in every bite.

The combination delivers comfort food at its finest, transforming a beloved sandwich into a crowd-pleasing meal.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more exciting with this easy-to-make, delicious dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Highlights

  • Speedy Comfort Food: Transform classic Philly cheesesteak flavors into a quick and satisfying sloppy joe that delivers big taste with minimal effort.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Fusion: Combine two beloved sandwich styles into one mouthwatering meal that appeals to both kids and adults, making dinner exciting and delicious.
  • Simple One-Pan Wonder: Streamline cooking by preparing the entire meat mixture in a single skillet, reducing cleanup and making weeknight dinner preparation a breeze.
  • Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting spice levels, cheese types, or adding extra vegetables to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Ingredient List

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A flavorful and hearty base that provides the classic Philly cheesesteak taste and texture.
Vegetables:
  • Onions, Bell Peppers: These aromatic vegetables add sweetness and depth to the meat mixture, mimicking traditional Philly cheesesteak flavors.
  • Garlic: A pungent ingredient that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp and rich flavor to the meat mixture.
  • Provolone Cheese: Provides a creamy and mild topping that melts beautifully on the sandwich.
Bun:
  • Hamburger Buns: A soft and sturdy base that holds the saucy meat mixture.
Sauce and Seasoning Components:
  • Beef Broth, Cornstarch, Bouillon: These ingredients create a rich and thickened sauce that binds the meat mixture.
  • Oil: Used for sautéing the meat and vegetables.
  • Butter: Helps toast the buns and adds a rich flavor.
Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the overall taste of the dish.

Steps for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Warm Up the Buns

Crank your oven to 400F.

Slice those buns open and spread butter generously on the inside.

Pop them in the oven, cut-side facing up, and toast for 5 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.

Step 2: Sizzle the Protein

In a large skillet, brown ground beef with diced onions and bell peppers in oil.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around for about 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic magic.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

Grab a bowl and whisk together:
  • Beef broth
  • Cornstarch
  • Bouillon

Pour this mixture into the meat along with additional sauce ingredients and your favorite seasonings.

Let the flavors mingle and get to know each other.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Simmer the mixture until the liquid reduces but maintains a luscious, saucy consistency.

This should take around 5 minutes.

Stir in sharp cheddar cheese for extra richness and depth.

Step 5: Layer and Melt

Scoop the decadent meat mixture onto your toasted buns.

Crown each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese.

Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to transform into a gooey, melted masterpiece.

Sloppy Joes Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Butter generously and watch closely to achieve golden-brown edges without burning.
  • Drain excess fat after browning beef to prevent soggy sandwich texture.
  • Let provolone melt slightly under broiler for extra crispy, bubbly cheese topping.
  • Use additional garlic powder or worcestershire sauce to enhance overall flavor depth.
  • Adjust cornstarch amount if mixture becomes too thick or thin during simmering.

Fun Variations for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

  • Vegetarian Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: Replace beef with crumbled firm tofu or plant-based ground meat, using similar seasoning for rich flavor.
  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Version: Swap buns with large lettuce leaves, creating a lighter, gluten-free alternative that maintains the classic cheesesteak taste.
  • Spicy Southwest Variation: Add diced jalapeños, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and include a dash of chipotle powder to boost heat and complexity.
  • Mediterranean-Style Option: Incorporate feta cheese, roasted red peppers, and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired cheesesteak sloppy joe experience.

Serving Up Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

  • Flavor Burst Pairing: Serve with crispy seasoned potato wedges or a tangy coleslaw to complement the rich, meaty sloppy joe.
  • Freshness Kick: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a bright, zesty contrast to the hearty filling.
  • Side Crunch Companion: Add pickled jalapeños or a quick cucumber pickle on the side for extra texture and a zingy flavor punch.
  • Wine & Dine Match: Pair with a cold amber ale or a light lager to balance the robust, cheesy meat mixture.

Storage Guide for Sloppy Joes Leftovers

  • Store any remaining Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Pack cooled mixture in freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months for a quick future meal.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
  • Keep toasted buns stored separately from the meat mixture to prevent sogginess, assembling just before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

  • What makes Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes different from traditional sloppy joes?

These sloppy joes combine the classic sloppy joe concept with Philly cheesesteak flavors, using bell peppers, onions, and a blend of cheddar and provolone cheeses for a more gourmet twist.

  • Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want to increase the heat level to your preference.

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Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe


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4.8 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring classic sandwich flavors into a messy, irresistible comfort meal. Juicy ground beef, melted provolone, and caramelized peppers create a mouthwatering twist on two beloved American favorites you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 green pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) reduced sodium beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons beef bouillon
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Cheese and Buns:

  • 3/4 cup (170 grams) freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices provolone cheese
  • 6 brioche hamburger buns
  • Softened butter or mayonnaise for brushing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 400°F and prepare baking sheet. Generously spread softened butter on inner surfaces of burger buns, then place cut-side up for crisp toasting, approximately 5 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil and sauté ground beef until deep brown. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until vegetables soften and become translucent. Introduce minced garlic and quickly stir for 30 seconds to release aromatic flavors.
  3. Create sauce by whisking beef broth with cornstarch and bouillon powder until smooth. Pour mixture into skillet with meat, incorporating worcestershire sauce and additional seasonings. Gently blend all ingredients.
  4. Reduce heat and allow mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook approximately 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens but remains slightly loose. Fold shredded cheddar cheese into meat mixture, creating a rich and creamy texture.
  5. Spoon savory beef mixture generously onto toasted buns. Layer provolone cheese on top and return to oven. Bake 5-10 minutes until cheese melts completely and edges become golden brown. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Notes

  • Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a cleaner, more flavorful base for the sloppy joes.
  • Dice onions and peppers uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the meat mixture.
  • Allow the mixture to simmer gently, letting flavors meld and sauce thicken without burning or sticking to the pan.
  • Try cheese varieties like smoked provolone or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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