Quick Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Quick & Savory Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Whipping up a mouthwatering 30-minute Philly cheese steak sloppy joes will satisfy your wildest comfort food dreams.

Layers of savory beef and melted cheese create an irresistible sandwich experience.

Bold flavors dance across your taste buds with each incredible bite.

Hearty ingredients come together quickly in one skillet, making dinner preparation a breeze.

Kitchen magic happens when classic Philly cheese steak meets traditional sloppy joe goodness.

Crispy rolls packed with rich, meaty filling guarantee smiles around the dinner table.

Dig in and savor every delicious moment of this crowd-pleasing meal.

30-Minute Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes You Can’t Miss

  • Speedy Weeknight Winner: Conquer dinner in under 30 minutes with this lightning-fast recipe that transforms classic sloppy joes into a Philly cheese steak-inspired sensation.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with melted provolone, hearty ground beef, and vibrant vegetables, this dish guarantees smiles from kids and adults alike at the dinner table.
  • Minimal Cleanup Miracle: Using just one skillet and a few simple ingredients, this recipe ensures quick preparation and easy cleanup, making it perfect for busy families seeking delicious meals without kitchen chaos.
  • Budget-Friendly Feast: Affordable ground beef and pantry staples come together to create a restaurant-quality meal that won't break the bank, proving gourmet flavors can be achieved on a budget.

Ingredients for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty meat that forms the foundation of this Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joe.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Green Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables that add crunch and flavor to the dish.
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Ketchup, Worcestershire Sauce: Tangy condiments that enhance the overall taste profile.
  • Beef Broth, Cornstarch: A thickening agent and liquid that creates a rich, smooth sauce.
Bread and Cheese:
  • Hamburger Buns: Soft bread that serves as the perfect vessel for the sloppy joe mixture.
  • Provolone Cheese: Creamy cheese that melts beautifully and adds a classic Philly cheese steak flavor.

How to Make Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until completely browned. Carefully drain away any excess fat to keep the dish light and delicious.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add these fresh ingredients to the skillet:
  • Diced onions
  • Chopped green bell peppers

Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and slightly translucent, which takes about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

Pour in these zesty ingredients:
  • Ketchup
  • Worcestershire sauce

Stir everything together to blend the flavors completely.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, whisk beef broth and cornstarch until the mixture becomes completely smooth. Slowly pour this into the skillet and mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer and Reduce

Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Watch as the sauce thickens and becomes rich and glossy, which takes approximately 5 minutes.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Layer provolone cheese over the top of the meat mixture. Let the cheese melt completely, creating a gooey and irresistible topping.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Toast hamburger buns until they’re golden and crispy. Generously spoon the cheesy meat mixture onto the buns.

Serve hot and watch everyone dive in with excitement.

Tips for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Success

  • Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy texture and ensure a clean, rich flavor profile.
  • Select high-quality provolone cheese for authentic Philly cheese steak taste and optimal melting consistency.
  • Keep vegetables chopped uniformly to guarantee even cooking and balanced bite in each serving.
  • Use fresh hamburger buns and toast them lightly for added crunch and better structural integrity when holding the sloppy joe mixture.
  • Quick tip: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for those wanting extra spicy kick without overwhelming the classic cheese steak flavor.

Flavor Twists on Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes

  • Vegetarian Philly Joe: Replace ground beef with crumbled firm tofu or plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meat-free version.
  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Style: Skip hamburger buns and serve the mixture in large lettuce leaves. Reduce cornstarch for fewer carbs and use low-sodium broth.
  • Spicy Southwest Cheese Joe: Add diced jalapeños and replace ketchup with salsa. Use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone for extra heat.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free hamburger buns or serve over cauliflower rice. Confirm cornstarch is certified gluten-free and use tamari instead of Worcestershire sauce.

Perfect Pairings with Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes

  • Crowd-Pleasing Game Day Delight: Serve these sloppy joes during sports watch parties, offering a hearty and messy crowd-favorite that keeps everyone satisfied.
  • Philly-Style Comfort Meal: Transform the recipe into a complete dinner by pairing with crispy french fries or a simple side salad for a balanced meal that satisfies hunger.
  • Quick Lunch Powerhouse: Pack the cheesy beef mixture in a thermos for a hot, filling midday meal at work or school, keeping the buns separate to prevent sogginess.
  • Tailgate Temperature Trick: Keep the mixture warm in a slow cooker during outdoor gatherings, allowing guests to assemble their own sloppy joes with melted cheese and toasted buns.

How to Store Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Store the Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes separately from the buns to keep the bread from getting soggy.
  • Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.
  • Freeze the meat mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

FAQs

  • What ingredients give this Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes its unique flavor?

The Worcestershire sauce and combination of ground beef, onions, and green peppers create a rich, tangy flavor profile that mimics traditional Philly cheesesteak.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, saucy mixture and the easy-to-eat sandwich format, making it a fun meal that’s both delicious and simple to prepare.

  • Can I make this recipe healthier?

Yes, you can use lean ground beef, reduce the cheese, or add extra vegetables like mushrooms to increase nutritional value without compromising taste.

  • What makes the sauce thick and glossy?

The cornstarch mixed with beef broth creates a smooth thickening agent that gives the sauce its perfect consistency and glossy appearance.

Print
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Quick Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Quick Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Philly cheese steak sloppy joes merge classic sandwich flavors into a quick, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Melted provolone, tender beef, and caramelized peppers create a delicious twist you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced

Sauces and Thickeners:

  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Cheese and Bread:

  • 6 slices provolone cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns

Instructions

  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high temperature, crumble ground beef into the pan, and cook thoroughly until no pink remains.
  2. Drain excess grease from the meat, then return skillet to heat.
  3. Sauté diced onions and green bell peppers in the same skillet until vegetables become translucent and slightly tender, approximately 4-5 minutes.
  4. Incorporate ketchup and Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture, stirring to distribute flavors evenly.
  5. Create a smooth cornstarch slurry by whisking beef broth and cornstarch in a separate bowl until completely integrated.
  6. Pour the slurry into the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumping and promote even thickening.
  7. Reduce heat and allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, watching as the sauce transforms into a rich, glossy consistency.
  8. Carefully layer provolone cheese across the top of the meat mixture, letting it melt completely and create a luxurious blanket.
  9. While cheese melts, lightly toast hamburger buns to enhance their texture and flavor.
  10. Generously spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto prepared buns, ensuring an even distribution of meat and melted cheese.
  11. Serve immediately while hot and gooey, ready to enjoy this quick and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, lighter version that’s perfect for health-conscious eaters.
  • Customize heat levels by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those craving extra spice.
  • Use gluten-free hamburger buns to make this recipe celiac-friendly and accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Enhance flavor depth by caramelizing onions slowly before adding other ingredients, which intensifies their natural sweetness and complexity.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 512 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 870 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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