These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes mix the best of both worlds! Tender beef, melty cheese, and sweet peppers piled high in a soft bun make for a tasty meal.
Perfect for busy nights, these sandwiches are so easy to whip up. I always add extra cheese because, let’s be real, more cheese is never a bad idea! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using ground beef for the best flavor, but ground turkey is a great leaner option if you want something healthier. You could even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Onion and Bell Pepper: Diced onion and green bell pepper create a lovely base for the flavor. If you want to mix it up, try using red onion for sweetness or a different color bell pepper for a pop of color!
Provolone Cheese: Provolone is a classic choice that melts beautifully. If you can’t find it, mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack can work, depending on your taste preferences.
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds depth to your dish. If you’re out, try soy sauce or liquid aminos as a substitute. Just use a little less since soy sauce is saltier!
How Do You Sauté Vegetables for Maximum Flavor?
SautĂ©ing onions and peppers is key to building flavor. Start with medium heat to soften them without burning. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your olive oil in the skillet until it shimmers.
- Add the onions and peppers, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for them to become tender.
- When adding garlic, wait until the veggies are softened for the best results. Garlic cooks quickly, so only sauté it for about 1-2 minutes.
These steps bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and make your dish extra delicious!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably toasted)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish to create a delicious meal that serves four. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Veggies:
First, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are nice and softened. You want them to be tender and flavorful!
2. Adding Garlic:
Next, toss the minced garlic into the skillet. Cook it for another 1 to 2 minutes, until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma wafting through the kitchen. Yum!
3. Browning the Meat:
Now it’s time to crank up the heat! Increase it to medium-high and add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as you go, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off for a leaner meal.
4. Creating the Flavorful Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Bring all of that yummy goodness to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing everything to meld together and the sauce to thicken a bit.
5. Seasoning:
Give your mixture a taste and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. This is your chance to get the flavors just right!
6. Assembling the Sloppy Joes:
Once your meat mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Divide the mixture evenly among the bottom halves of your toasted hamburger buns. Don’t skimp on the meat! Place a slice of provolone cheese over the top of each sandwich, letting it melt a little into the hot meat.
7. Finishing Touch and Serving:
Finally, cover each sandwich with the top halves of the buns. Serve them immediately and enjoy your cheesy, sloppy creation. It’s a delightful twist on a classic meal that everyone will love!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this recipe and provides a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You might want to add a little extra seasoning since turkey is milder in flavor than beef.
What Cheese Can I Use Besides Provolone?
Feel free to get creative! While provolone is traditional, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even American cheese if you prefer a melty texture. Aim for about a slice per sandwich, and feel free to mix cheeses for a unique flavor!
How to Store Leftover Sloppy Joes
Store any leftover meat mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot, then serve on toasted buns.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative, such as lentils or crumbled tofu. You can also add in more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and flavor. The same cooking instructions will apply!
