Name: Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 yellow onion, finely diced; 1 green pepper, chopped; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup beef broth; ¼ cup A-1 Steak Sauce; 1 teaspoon steak seasoning; Sliced provolone cheese; Hamburger buns or sliders; Butter (for spreading on buns)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 5 reviews

I absolutely love sharing this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe because it combines two of my favorite comfort foods into one irresistible sandwich. The juicy, flavorful ground beef mingling perfectly with sautéed peppers and onions, all smothered in melted provolone cheese inside a toasted bun, is just pure magic. It’s a quick, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion when you want something delicious without fussing over complicated ingredients or long cooking times.

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

What makes this dish so special to me is how it captures the bold, savory flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak but in a fun, sloppy joe form that’s easy to eat and share. The combination of the tender ground beef, the slight crunch from peppers and onions, and that tangy steak sauce creates a taste that is both comforting and exciting. I love how the provolone cheese melts just right, tying all the flavors together in every bite.

Beyond flavor, the simplicity of this recipe is a huge win. It doesn’t require hours in the kitchen or any fancy equipment — just a skillet, a few fresh ingredients, and some patience to let the mixture thicken perfectly. I often whip this up for casual family dinners or when friends come over because it’s so quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for something that stands out but won’t stress you out, this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe is absolutely the way to go.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of several clear bowls and a white rectangular dish placed on a white marbled surface, each holding different cooking ingredients. The white dish holds bright red ground meat with a soft, wavy texture, positioned near the center. Around it, there are bowls with shredded pale yellow cheese, chopped white onions, chopped green bell peppers, and chopped brown mushrooms. Smaller bowls contain minced garlic, a red thick sauce, a dark liquid sauce, and a white creamy substance. There is also a small bowl with black and pink seasoning, a glass container with golden yellow oil, and a glass cup containing brown broth. The scene is bright and clean with clear, sharp details. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient here is simple but essential, each adding a unique element to the overall taste, texture, and appearance. From the ground beef’s richness to the fresh crunch of peppers and onions, and the sharp, melty provolone cheese, it’s a balanced lineup that’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy.

1 lb lean ground beef: The meaty base that gives the sloppy joes their hearty flavor and texture.
1 yellow onion (finely diced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
1 green pepper (chopped): Brings freshness and a slight crunch to balance the richness.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect sloppy joe consistency.
1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful, saucy base for the meat mixture.
¼ cup A-1 Steak Sauce: The secret to that tangy, punchy cheesesteak flavor.
1 teaspoon steak seasoning: Amplifies the savory notes with a bold blend of spices.
Sliced provolone cheese: Melts beautifully to add creaminess and a touch of sharpness.
Hamburger buns or sliders: A soft, sturdy vehicle to hold all the deliciousness together.

Directions

Step 1: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the diced onion, chopped green pepper, and salt until the beef is completely browned and no longer pink. Make sure to stir frequently so everything cooks evenly. Once done, drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the cooked beef mixture and stir to coat the meat evenly. This is key for thickening the sauce later on.

Step 3: Pour in the beef broth, A-1 Steak Sauce, and sprinkle the steak seasoning over the pan. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 4: Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken as it cooks and will continue to thicken once removed from heat.

Step 5: While the meat simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the hamburger buns on a baking sheet and lightly butter each cut side. Broil for just a few minutes until they start to turn golden and crispy. Watch carefully – they can burn quickly!

Step 6: Use a slotted spoon to scoop the meat mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top the other half of the bun with a slice of provolone cheese. Place under the broiler again for a few minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.

Step 7: Assemble your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes by placing the cheesy top bun over the meat-filled bottom bun. Serve right away while it’s warm and melty – it’s truly the best way to enjoy this sandwich.

Servings and Timing

This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe makes about 6 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking, so the total time is roughly 30 minutes. There’s no resting time needed, so once it’s done, you can dig in immediately and enjoy the fresh, hot flavors.

How to Serve This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

A close-up top view of a pan filled with cooked ground meat mixed with small pieces of green bell pepper and onion, all coated in a light brown sauce, with a wooden spoon resting embedded in the mixture; the colors show warm browns and soft greens with a slightly shiny, moist texture, all set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this dish with classic sides like crispy oven fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a bit of freshness. The richness of the sloppy joes pairs wonderfully with something crunchy or tangy. For a real party vibe, I’ll offer some pickles and chips on the side as well.

Presentation-wise, I like to keep it rustic but inviting. Stacking the sandwiches on a platter with some extra sprinkled chopped parsley or a few chili flakes on the side can jazz things up. If you want to impress guests, a toasted sesame seed bun adds a nice visual and textural contrast.

When it comes to drinks, I often recommend cold beers, especially a crisp lager or amber ale, to complement the bold flavors. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a classic iced tea with lemon or even a flavorful ginger ale balances the savory and cheesy notes beautifully. This meal is best served hot or warm to keep the cheese gooey and the bread perfectly soft.

Variations

I’m always experimenting with this recipe to keep it fresh and cater to different tastes. For example, swapping out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken works well if you want a lighter option without losing that meaty texture. You could also try mushroom or lentil mixes if you want to go vegetarian or vegan, just remember to substitute the provolone with a plant-based cheese alternative.

If spice is your thing, I like adding a little crushed red pepper or hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick. Another of my favorites is mixing in caramelized onions instead of raw diced onions for sweeter, deeper flavor notes. Additionally, you can grill the buns instead of broiling for a smoky twist, which really adds character to the sandwich.

For gluten-free eaters, simply use gluten-free buns or even sturdy lettuce wraps. These small swaps make this recipe accessible to many diets without compromising the delicious essence that makes this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe so addicting.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I like to remove the meat mixture from the buns before storing, so the bread doesn’t get soggy. This way, you can toast fresh buns when reheating for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked beef mixture by placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It keeps well for about 2 months. Be sure to label it with the date. When you want to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat the meat mixture is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen as it can cook unevenly and dry out the meat. When reheated, adding a splash of beef broth can help restore moisture. Toast fresh buns and melt your cheese again under the broiler to revive that fresh-made feel.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While provolone is traditional and melts beautifully, you can substitute with mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar for a different twist. Just choose a cheese that melts nicely to keep that gooey, cheesesteak vibe.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Swap the ground beef with chopped mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. For a vegan version, use vegan cheese and be sure to choose vegan buns. Adjust the steak seasoning and A-1 sauce as some brands may contain animal products.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat and broil the buns and cheese fresh. This makes for quick assembly and a stress-free meal.

What kind of buns work best for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

I recommend soft hamburger buns, slider buns, or even hoagie rolls if you like a bigger sandwich. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the sloppy filling without falling apart.

How do I make the sandwich less messy to eat?

Using a slotted spoon to drain excess sauce before piling the meat onto the bun helps reduce mess. Also, toasting the buns until crisp provides structure and prevents them from becoming soggy too quickly. Serving the sandwiches with napkins on hand is always a smart move!

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you give this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes that never fails to satisfy. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for everything from a casual weeknight to a fun party. Trust me, once you taste that melty cheese and savory beef mixture, you’ll understand why this has become one of my all-time favorites to share with friends and family.