After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comforting thought of a hearty meal waiting for you at home. I stumbled upon this delightful Pho fusion of flavors while trying to reinvent my go-to sloppy joes. Imagine biting into a juicy, cheesy feast packed with the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheese steak—all nestled inside soft, golden brioche buns. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes have become my secret weapon for impressing family and friends, all while steering clear of the usual fast-food routine.
As the scent of beef, sautéed onions, and gooey Provolone fills the kitchen, you might just find everyone wandering in, drawn by the tantalizing aroma. They’ll have no idea that a dish that tastes so indulgent took hardly any effort at all. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the joys of cooking this irresistible comfort food that promises to satisfy both taste buds and the craving for homemade goodness!
Why love Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
Rich, savory flavor: This recipe combines the best of a classic Philly cheese steak with the simplicity of sloppy joes, resulting in a meaty, cheesy wonder.
Minimal effort: You’ll find that the cooking process is easy and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone, from kids to adults, will be clamoring for seconds when they taste the bounty of flavors.
Versatile dish: Use different proteins or add your favorite veggies to customize it to your taste.
Comforting creation: It’s the ultimate comforting meal, offering all the indulgence without the fast-food guilt!
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Ingredients
For the Filling
• 1 pound lean ground beef – the base of our sloppy joes, providing a robust and savory flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter – adds richness and helps sauté the veggies for a deeper taste.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – sweet and aromatic, it brings a lovely balance to the dish.
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced – adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your filling.
• 8 ounces brown mushrooms, minced – enhances the umami flavor profile, making it more like a classic Philly cheese steak.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup – for sweetness and to bind all the flavors together harmoniously.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – a splash of this savory sauce elevates the taste to new heights.
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt – to enhance all the flavors in this easy Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes recipe.
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper – a touch of spice that elevates the overall flavor experience.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – to help thicken the mixture, ensuring every bite is hearty and satisfying.
• 1 cup beef broth – adds depth and moisture while ensuring a rich, cohesive filling.
For the Cheesy Topping
• 8 ounces Provolone Cheese Slices, chopped – the star of the show; melts beautifully into gooey perfection.
For Serving
• 6 brioche hamburger buns – soft and buttery, perfect for holding all that delicious filling without falling apart.
How to Make Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
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Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it forms a deep brown crust on the bottom, breaking it apart halfway through. Aim for about 50% of the beef to be evenly browned.
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Sauté the Veggies: Remove the beef and leave the rendered fat in the skillet. Add the butter, diced onions, bell peppers, and minced mushrooms. Let them brown for 1-2 minutes undisturbed, then stir and let them brown for another 1-2 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the skillet. In a small cup, whisk the beef broth and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring everything together.
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Thicken the Mixture: Cook the filling until it thickens and becomes slightly less liquidy, about 3-5 minutes. You want it nice and hearty!
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Melt the Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped Provolone cheese until it melts into a gooey, delicious mixture.
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Serve Warm: Pile the cheesy filling high on toasted brioche buns, and enjoy this comforting meal!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef and veggie filling up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. To do this, simply follow the initial cooking steps up to when you add the cheese. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal, reheat the mixture on the stovetop until warmed through, then fold in the Provolone cheese until melted and gooey. Serve it piled high on toasted brioche buns for a dish that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
Elevate your meal experience with delicious sides that perfectly harmonize with this cheesy, savory delight.
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Crispy French Fries: Their golden crunch provides a delightful contrast to the soft, cheesy filling, making every bite an adventure. Perfectly seasoned, these fries offer that fast-food satisfaction but with a homemade touch.
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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: This veggie adds a nutritious element to your dinner, and the garlic complements the rich flavors of the sloppy joes beautifully. The slight char from roasting will enhance the meal’s overall warmth.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy slaw balances the richness of the Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes, offering a lovely zing of acidity to cut through the cheesy goodness. It’s a colorful, vibrant addition to your plate.
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Potato Salad: Creamy and hearty, this classic side dish pairs wonderfully with your sloppy joes, creating a picnic vibe at your dining table. The flavors meld together, making each bite a nostalgic treat.
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Philly Cheese Steak Fries: Get adventurous with loaded fries topped with cheese and toppings that mirror the stuffing of the sandwich, enhancing those beloved flavors in a new form.
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Sweet Tea: This refreshing drink is the ideal complement to counterbalance the hearty meal, with its sweet yet slightly tart flavor perfectly rounding out the experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off your meal on a sweet note! Warm, gooey cookies add a lovely ending with their comforting flavors that resonate with the jovial spirit of homemade cooking.
Add these sides to your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes and watch as your dinner table comes alive with vibrant tastes and warm conversations!
Expert Tips for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
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Prep the Ingredients First: Have all your ingredients chopped and measured before starting. It makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Don’t Rush the Browning: Ensure the ground beef develops a deep crust before breaking it apart. This enhances flavor and gives your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes a richer taste.
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Choose the Right Cheese: Opting for provolone? Make sure it’s fresh and melted thoroughly for that gooey goodness. It’s a crucial step in achieving the right texture!
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home. This flexibility helps you create your perfect sloppy joe.
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Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting the brioche buns beforehand will prevent them from getting soggy and can elevate the entire eating experience!
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Variations
Let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delightful recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute Provolone cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative to enjoy a creamy, delicious version without the dairy.
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Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based twist that still packs a hearty punch.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for a fiery upgrade with every bite.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in finely chopped spinach or shredded carrots for added nutrition, mixing vibrant colors and textures into your filling.
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BBQ Flare: Incorporate a few tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce into the mix for a smoky, tangy flavor that dances on your palate.
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Mushroom Lovers: Up the umami by increasing the amount of minced mushrooms or swapping in portobello for a meatier texture.
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Bun Alternatives: Try swapping out brioche buns for whole-grain or gluten-free options to cater to different dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
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Bold Beef: Experiment with using different types of ground meat like turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a unique twist that adds a whole new layer of flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave out the buns until ready to serve.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the filling in the fridge overnight. Warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, and serve on toasted buns for best results.
Wrap and Store: If you have assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right beef for my Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for lean ground beef, like 85% lean. This balance gives a good amount of fat for moisture while keeping it hearty without being greasy.
How should I store my leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the filling cools completely before sealing to keep it fresh and prevent condensation.
Can I freeze Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
Yes, definitely! To freeze, place the filling in a freezer-safe container and make sure to leave out the brioche buns. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
What if my filling is too thin?
No worries! If your filling seems too liquidy, continue cooking it over medium heat for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. You can also add a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water, stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can substitute the Provolone cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just check the labels for hidden allergens. Additionally, be mindful of any guests who may have gluten sensitivities; opt for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for serving.
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes for Ultimate Comfort Food Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it forms a deep brown crust on the bottom, breaking it apart halfway through.
- Remove the beef and leave the rendered fat in the skillet. Add the butter, diced onions, bell peppers, and minced mushrooms. Let them brown for 1-2 minutes undisturbed, then stir and let them brown for another 1-2 minutes.
- Return the browned beef to the skillet. In a small cup, whisk the beef broth and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring everything together.
- Cook the filling until it thickens and becomes slightly less liquidy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped Provolone cheese until it melts into a gooey, delicious mixture.
- Pile the cheesy filling high on toasted brioche buns, and enjoy this comforting meal!