Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on two classic American favorites: the beloved Philly cheesesteak and the ever-popular sloppy joe. This dish combines the best of both worlds, featuring tender ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, and onions, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce, served on a soft bun. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or game day, these sandwiches offer all the savory flavors of a traditional cheesesteak in a more convenient, crowd-pleasing form. Let’s dive into this simple and scrumptious recipe that’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 6 slices provolone cheese or 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 6 hamburger buns or soft rolls
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for toasting the buns)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the onion and bell peppers into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic.
- Measure out the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion, green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Thicken the Mixture (Optional)
- If the mixture seems too thin, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the beef mixture and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
- Lower the heat to medium-low and lay the provolone cheese slices over the beef mixture. Alternatively, you can sprinkle shredded provolone cheese on top.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Stir gently to combine the cheese into the beef mixture.
Step 7: Prepare the Buns
- While the cheese melts, butter the hamburger buns or rolls and toast them in a separate skillet or on a griddle over medium heat until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 8: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
- Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve hot.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve hot with a side of crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad. For added flavor, consider topping the sandwiches with sautéed mushrooms, banana peppers, or a dollop of mayonnaise.
- Storage: Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freezing: To freeze, cool the beef mixture completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful Notes
- Choosing the Meat: For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Ground sirloin or chuck provides a richer flavor due to its higher fat content.
- Cheese Options: While provolone is traditional for a Philly cheese steak, you can use American cheese, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a different taste.
- Vegetable Variations: Add mushrooms or jalapeños for an extra kick. Sautéed spinach can also be added for a nutritious twist.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests using a mix of butter and olive oil to sauté the vegetables, which adds extra flavor and prevents the butter from burning.
- Chef Jamie Oliver recommends toasting the buns for a few minutes under the broiler instead of on a skillet to achieve a perfectly crispy texture.
- Chef Rachael Ray advises adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture if you prefer a spicier version.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Just be aware that it may cook a little faster and be less flavorful, so consider adding extra seasonings.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve, and toast the buns just before assembling.
- What type of buns should I use?
- Use soft hamburger buns or hoagie rolls. Brioche buns also work well for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Can I make it gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free buns and substitute cornstarch or gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce.
- How can I make the mixture less watery?
- If the mixture is too watery, cook it for a few extra minutes to let the liquid evaporate, or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.
- What can I serve with Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
- Serve with French fries, a side salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or even a cheese blend can be used depending on your preference.
- How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
- Toast the buns before assembling and serve immediately. You can also place a slice of cheese on the bottom bun before adding the beef mixture to act as a barrier.
- Can I use chicken or steak strips instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can use thinly sliced steak or chicken strips for a more authentic Philly cheese steak flavor. Sauté them until fully cooked, then proceed with the recipe.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store the beef mixture separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the mixture and toast the buns when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are an easy, mouthwatering meal that combines the best flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the convenience of a sloppy joe. With tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions, this dish is sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these sandwiches are a guaranteed hit. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
