Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

If you love the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want something even speedier (and just a bit messier in the best way), this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner. Imagine juicy ground beef combined with sweet, tender onions, crisp green peppers, earthy mushrooms, and melty provolone—all nestled in a buttery brioche bun. It’s rich and comforting, but also incredibly quick and easy, making it the perfect answer for those busy weeknights when time is short but you’re still craving a warm, satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what brings this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe to glorious life—plus why each ingredient matters most.

• Lean Ground Beef: This is the star—lean beef makes for a hearty, flavorful filling without a lot of extra grease. If you use a fattier blend, just be sure to drain it!
• Onion: Gives a natural sweetness and essential flavor base. Chop the onion finely to help it melt right into the meat mixture.
• Green Bell Pepper: Adds a signature Philly cheesesteak flavor plus a little crunch and brightness to every bite.
• Baby Bella Mushrooms: Earthy and meaty, mushrooms bring incredible depth and help keep the filling moist.
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced, because garlic makes everything better and adds a comforting aroma.
• Salt and Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Essential to round out and highlight all the flavors.
• Beef Broth: Helps create a luscious sauce for your Sloppy Joes (and infuses even more savory depth).
• Ketchup: Adds a subtle tang and balances the savory richness—don’t skip it, even if you’re skeptical!
• Worcestershire Sauce: This is your secret weapon for extra “umami” and classic Sloppy Joe flavor.
• Arrowroot Powder (or Cornstarch): The key to a glossy, thick sauce that won’t run all over your plate.
• Provolone Cheese: The absolute best cheese for Philly Sloppy Joes; it melts dreamily and complements the beef without overpowering.
• Brioche Hamburger Buns: Buttery, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold all that saucy goodness.
• Optional—Hot Sauce or Jalapeño Slices: For anyone who likes a spicy kick.
• Optional—Toasting the Buns: Makes the bottom bun extra crisp and able to hold up to the sloppy glory.

Variations

Mix things up based on your cravings or what’s handy in your kitchen:

• Change the Protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a different spin.
• Swap the Cheese: While provolone is classic, mozzarella, white American, or even pepper jack bring fun twists.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns, or serve the filling in lettuce wraps for a lower-carb dinner.
• Skip the Mushrooms: Not a fan? Just double up on peppers, or add in roasted red peppers for a slightly sweeter vibe.
• Vegetarian Version: Sauté chopped cauliflower, lentils, or firm tofu with the veggies to make a meatless filling that’s just as satisfying.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Let it brown until there’s no more pink showing.

Step 2: Cook the Veggies

Toss in your finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, and garlic. Keep stirring! Cook until everything is soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to make the flavors pop.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and arrowroot powder (or cornstarch). Make sure there are no lumps—this is going to bind everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Pour the sauce over your beef and veggies in the skillet. Stir well so every bite is coated. Lower the heat, pop a lid on, and let the whole thing simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep everything moving and thickening.

Step 5: Assemble and Melt the Cheese

Turn on your oven’s broiler. Lay open your brioche buns (cut side up) on a baking sheet. Spoon your hot cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom bun. Lay a slice of provolone on top—it will start melting immediately.

Step 6: Broil and Serve

Broil for just a couple of minutes, watching closely. The cheese will bubble and become like a cozy blanket over the filling. Grab them out of the oven, cap them with the top buns, and you’re ready to dig in.

Tip: For an even crisper base, toast the buns under the broiler before you fill them!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Walk Away From the Broiler: Turn your back for a second, and the cheese can go from glorious to burnt.
• Chop Veggies Uniformly: Even dice means perfectly cooked veggies and the best bite every time.
• Drain Extra Grease: Using less-lean beef? Drain off the fat after browning to keep the final Sloppy Joe light and not greasy.
• Adjust the Thickness: If your filling is still too loose after simmering, mix up a bit more arrowroot (or cornstarch) with water, stir it in, and cook a few extra minutes until it thickens to your liking.

How to Serve

• Classic Style: Piled high on toasted brioche buns with a slice of provolone melting over the top—simple, satisfying, and pure comfort.
• Party-Ready Sliders: Use small buns or dinner rolls for easy-to-grab sliders.
• With Sides: Pair with oven fries, a crisp green salad, pickles, or even a side of coleslaw to cut the richness.
• Lettuce Wraps: Great for a lighter option or a fun twist—just spoon the filling into big, sturdy lettuce leaves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, stash leftover Sloppy Joe filling in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

The filling freezes like a dream! Place it in a sealed, freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the filling gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. Or, microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring each time, until heated through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are everything a weeknight dinner should be—fast, just a little indulgent, and full of layers of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Don’t be afraid to put your own twist on the recipe, or double up for meal prep. Grab your skillet and try it tonight; you’ll see how easy and crave-worthy home-cooked comfort food can be!

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