Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on two classic comfort food favorites. Combining the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the saucy goodness of a sloppy joe, this easy recipe makes a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how quick and easy this recipe is to throw together, especially on busy nights. It delivers all the bold, beefy flavor of a Philly cheesesteak, but without needing to grill steak or slice it thin. I get all the cheesiness and savory goodness packed into a sandwich that’s saucy, melty, and completely satisfying. It’s also super family-friendly, and I can customize it depending on what I have on hand.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup beef broth
6 slices provolone cheese
4 hamburger buns (toasted if desired)
directions
I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Once the beef is browned, I drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onions and green bell pepper. I sauté for about 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Then I add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. I stir well to combine.
In a small bowl, I mix the cornstarch into the beef broth until smooth, then pour it into the skillet. I bring it to a simmer and let it cook for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
I lay the provolone slices on top of the beef mixture, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes. Once melted, I stir the cheese into the beef mixture until fully combined.
I scoop the cheesy beef onto hamburger buns and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 25 minutes total: 5 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual lunch.
Variations
I like switching things up depending on my mood or what’s in the fridge. Sometimes I use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. I’ve also added mushrooms for extra umami flavor, or used red or yellow bell peppers for a bit of sweetness. When I want to skip the bun, I serve the mixture over rice or in a baked potato. I’ve even tried it with Swiss or white American cheese instead of provolone for a different twist.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until hot throughout. If the mixture thickens too much, I just add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating. I always keep the buns separate and toast them fresh when serving leftovers.
FAQs
Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Yes, I make the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to serve, I reheat it and scoop it into freshly toasted buns.
What kind of cheese works best?
I prefer provolone because it melts well and has a mild, creamy flavor. But I’ve also had success using mozzarella or white American cheese.
Can I freeze the filling?
Yes, I let the beef mixture cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Are these kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The flavors are mild and cheesy, and I’ve found that kids love the saucy beef on a bun. I sometimes leave out the green peppers if my kids are feeling picky.
What’s the best way to serve these?
I usually serve them with a side of fries, potato chips, or a simple salad. They’re also great with a pickle on the side for a bit of crunch.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mash-up that I can whip up in no time. With juicy beef, melted cheese, and a rich, savory sauce all piled onto a toasted bun, this is a meal I keep coming back to whenever I want something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a delicious fusion of two comfort food classics—featuring juicy ground beef, melty provolone cheese, and savory vegetables in a tangy sauce, all piled onto a toasted bun.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup beef broth
6 slices provolone cheese
4 hamburger buns (toasted if desired)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Drain excess fat, then add chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch into beef broth until smooth. Pour into skillet, bring to a simmer, and cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Lay provolone slices on top of the beef mixture, cover skillet, and let cheese melt for about 2 minutes.
Stir melted cheese into the beef mixture until fully combined. Scoop onto hamburger buns and serve hot.
Notes
Switch ground beef for turkey for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms or use different colored bell peppers for variety.
Try other cheeses like mozzarella or white American for a twist.
Serve over rice or in a baked potato to skip the bun.
Store leftover filling separately and toast buns fresh for best texture.
