Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Introduction

If you love the cheesy, savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak and the comfort of a classic sloppy joe, this recipe combines the best of both worlds. These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are loaded with seasoned ground beef, onions, peppers, gooey melted cheese, and all the flavor of the iconic sandwich—served in an easy-to-make skillet dinner.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or game day meals, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes using simple, budget-friendly ingredients. It’s a kid-approved recipe that delivers all the taste of a cheesesteak in the fun, saucy style of sloppy joes.

Ingredient Overview

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean beef gives the best flavor without extra grease.

• 1 green bell pepper, diced – Classic cheesesteak flavor.

• 1 small onion, diced – Adds savory sweetness.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts flavor.

• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing veggies.

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Rich depth of flavor.

• 1 tbsp ketchup – Adds a slight tang.

• 1 cup beef broth – Moistens beef mixture.

• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water – Thickens sauce.

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Optional for added flavor.

• 4 hamburger buns or hoagie rolls – Toasted for best results.

• 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese – Classic cheesesteak cheese topping.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook beef
In a skillet, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Add veggies
Stir in diced onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Make sauce
Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and beef broth. Stir well. Mix cornstarch with water and stir into skillet to thicken sauce. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble sandwiches
Spoon beef mixture onto toasted buns. Top generously with shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese. Cover with bun tops.

Step 5: Serve hot
Serve immediately with fries, potato wedges, or a side salad.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 4 servings)

• Calories: 520

• Protein: 31g

• Carbs: 32g

• Fat: 26g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 6g

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? – Yes, lean turkey works well.

2. Can I use chicken? – Ground chicken or shredded chicken works.

3. What cheese is best? – Provolone, mozzarella, or white American.

4. Can I make it spicy? – Add jalapeños or hot sauce.

5. Can I meal prep this? – Yes, refrigerate for 3–4 days.

6. Can I freeze sloppy joe mixture? – Yes, up to 3 months.

7. Do I need cornstarch? – No, but it helps thicken the sauce.

8. Can I use hoagie rolls instead of buns? – Yes, great option.

9. Can I add mushrooms? – Yes, sauté them with onions.

10. Can I use Velveeta cheese? – Yes, for extra creamy topping.

11. Can I bake sandwiches after assembly? – Yes, for melty cheese topping.

12. How long do leftovers last? – 3–4 days in the fridge.

13. Can I make it gluten-free? – Use gluten-free buns.

14. Can I use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup? – Yes, for smoky flavor.

15. Can I use low-sodium broth? – Yes, to reduce salt.

16. Can I double the recipe? – Yes, perfect for parties.

17. Can I make this in a crockpot? – Yes, cook on low 3–4 hours.

18. Can I use ground sausage? – Yes, adds extra richness.

19. What sides go best? – Fries, coleslaw, or chips.

20. Is it kid-friendly? – Yes, kids love the cheesy beef mixture.

20 Helpful Tips

1. Use lean beef to avoid grease.

2. Toast buns to prevent sogginess.

3. Add mushrooms for authentic Philly flavor.

4. Use fresh garlic instead of powder for depth.

5. Mix cheese into beef mixture for gooey bites.

6. Save bacon grease and cook veggies in it for smoky taste.

7. Use cast iron skillet for even cooking.

8. Add cream cheese for richness.

9. Stir in hot sauce for spice.

10. Top with pickles for tangy crunch.

11. Use brioche buns for gourmet feel.

12. Double cheese for extra gooey sandwiches.

13. Make sliders for parties with mini buns.

14. Use yellow onion for sweetness.

15. Serve with steak fries for classic pairing.

16. Add ranch seasoning for zesty flavor.

17. Top with crispy onion straws for crunch.

18. Keep beef mixture slightly saucy for best texture.

19. Add splash of soy sauce for umami.

20. Let mixture simmer for 5 minutes for richer flavor.

10 Storage Tips

1. Store beef mixture separately from buns.

2. Refrigerate in airtight container for 3–4 days.

3. Freeze up to 3 months.

4. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.

5. Reheat in skillet with splash of broth.

6. Microwave portions with damp paper towel.

7. Store buns at room temp, not fridge.

8. Add fresh cheese after reheating.

9. Freeze in portions for easy meals.

10. Avoid freezing assembled sandwiches.

20 Recipe Secrets

1. Use thinly sliced steak instead of ground beef for true Philly taste.

2. Add white American cheese for authentic flavor.

3. Mix in cream cheese for creamy sauce.

4. Use hoagie rolls for cheesesteak vibes.

5. Top with sautéed mushrooms.

6. Add Worcestershire and soy sauce together for depth.

7. Stir in a little Dijon mustard for zing.

8. Use Colby Jack for a different cheese pull.

9. Bake sandwiches after assembly for melted topping.

10. Add bacon for smoky cheeseburger twist.

11. Use onion soup mix in beef for extra flavor.

12. Add jalapeño ranch drizzle on top.

13. Stir in caramelized onions for sweetness.

14. Use rotisserie chicken for quick swap.

15. Top with crispy onion rings.

16. Add sriracha mayo drizzle for fusion twist.

17. Serve open-faced with melted cheese broiled on top.

18. Use garlic butter on buns before toasting.

19. Add smoked provolone for depth.

20. Always serve hot for melty, cheesy perfection.