Get ready for a fun twist on a classic! These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes mix savory beef, melted cheese, and veggies all in a messy, tasty bun. Who can resist that?
I love serving these at game night. They’re super easy to whip up, and everyone gets to enjoy their own “sloppy” creation. Just don’t forget the napkins! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the main protein here. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh for a hearty texture.
Green Bell Pepper: The green bell pepper adds a nice crunch. If you prefer a milder flavor, yellow or red bell peppers work well too. For a touch of heat, consider using sliced jalapeños instead!
Provolone Cheese: Provolone gives that classic cheesesteak flavor. If it’s hard to find, you can swap it with mozzarella or even cheddar for a different yet tasty cheese experience.
Beef Broth: This helps to keep the mixture moist and adds depth. Vegetable broth can be used if you’re opting for a meatless version. Just make sure to check the flavor profile; some brands can be quite salty!
How Do You Get Perfectly Browned Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef may seem simple, but getting the right brown color adds incredible flavor. First, make sure your pan is hot. A cast-iron skillet is great for this. Here’s how to do it:
- When adding the beef to the skillet, spread it out evenly. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Let it sit without stirring for a few minutes to let it brown. Afterward, break it up with a spoon.
- Keep cooking it until there’s no pink left, and it looks nicely browned.
This method ensures your beef has that perfect texture and rich flavor, enhancing your Sloppy Joes!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns or sandwich rolls
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Optional: hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In total, you can have your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes ready in about 25 minutes! It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until they are softened and start to look a little transparent.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, mix in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You’ll start to smell the delicious garlic aroma—this is a good sign!
3. Cook the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook the beef for about 6-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and no longer pink. You want to ensure it’s fully cooked before moving on.
4. Season and Simmer:
If there’s excess fat in the skillet, feel free to drain it out. Then, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This will help blend the flavors and thicken the mixture a bit.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 more minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and gooey. Yum!
6. Toast the Buns:
If you like your buns toasted, go ahead and toast them now while the cheese is melting. It adds a nice crunch to your Sloppy Joes!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese has melted, spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted buns. If you like a little kick, add some hot sauce on top. Now grab a napkin and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a splash more oil at the start to keep the mixture moist. The cooking time may remain the same, but keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Provolone Cheese?
If provolone isn’t available, you can substitute with other melted cheeses like mozzarella or even cheddar for a different flavor. Just ensure it’s a good melting cheese, so it coats the beef mixture nicely when melted!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, for a quicker option.