Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a fun and easy-to-make sloppy joe form. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings!

Hayley Morton

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:40:50.277Z

This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe combines the savory taste of a classic cheesesteak with the comforting familiarity of sloppy joes. It's a dish that everyone in the family will love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Savory beef and cheese blend creates an irresistible flavor
  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
  • Great for gatherings, everyone can enjoy a hearty sandwich

The Origin of Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes have a rich and somewhat debated history. This American classic is believed to have originated in the 1930s, with various accounts linking its creation to a café in Sioux City, Iowa, called ‘Sloppy Joe's.’ The dish combines ground meat, a tangy sauce, and is typically served on a bun, making it a favorite for casual dining.

What sets Sloppy Joes apart is their versatility. While the traditional version usually incorporates a tomato-based sauce, many variations exist, allowing cooks to experiment with different flavors. From spicy to sweet, the base recipe can be modified to suit individual tastes, making it a beloved choice for family meals and gatherings.

Combining Two Classics

Philly cheesesteaks are another iconic American dish known for their savory blend of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables. By merging these two favorites—Sloppy Joes and Philly cheesesteaks—you create a dish that is not only hearty but also bursting with flavor. The gooey cheese and seasoned beef come together beautifully, satisfying cravings for both comfort food and a taste of the city of brotherly love.

This recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes offers a unique twist that makes it perfect for anyone who loves a good sandwich. It’s an easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of a cheesesteak without the fuss of traditional preparation. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for the Best Sloppy Joes

To elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, consider using a mix of cheeses. While provolone is a classic choice, adding a little melted mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar can enhance the flavor profile. This blend will create a more complex and deliciously gooey topping that everyone will love.

Another tip is to let the beef mixture simmer a bit longer. This allows the flavors to meld even more thoroughly, resulting in a richer taste. Just be sure to keep an eye on the mixture to avoid it becoming too thick. You want a nice, cohesive filling that can easily be spooned onto the buns.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joes

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
  • 4 hamburger buns

Mix and match your favorite toppings to customize your sloppy joes!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Add Cheese

Top the beef mixture with shredded provolone cheese. Cover the skillet and let it sit until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the cheesesteak mixture onto the hamburger buns and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!

Serving Suggestions

These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are delicious on their own, but pairing them with sides can take your meal to the next level. Classic choices include crispy French fries or a fresh side salad. You might also consider serving them with potato chips for a crunchy contrast, perfect for casual dining or game day.

For a fun twist, try serving the Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw. The cool, crunchy texture of coleslaw complements the savory richness of the beef and cheese, providing a delightful balance of flavors.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy. Place the beef mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to moisten the mixture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the beef mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes it a great make-ahead meal option for those busy weeks when you want to enjoy a comforting dish without the fuss.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.

→ What can I use instead of provolone cheese?

You can substitute with mozzarella or Cheez Whiz for a different flavor.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute instead of ground beef.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a fun and easy-to-make sloppy joe form. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Hayley Morton

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Sloppy Joes

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 1 small onion, diced
  3. 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 cup beef broth
  6. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  7. 1 teaspoon salt
  8. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  9. 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
  10. 4 hamburger buns

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Step 04

Top the beef mixture with shredded provolone cheese. Cover the skillet and let it sit until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 05

Spoon the cheesesteak mixture onto the hamburger buns and serve hot.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 30g