Oh, you know me—I live for those unexpected food mashups that just *work*! Sometimes you crave the hearty, saucy goodness of a classic Sloppy Joe, but other times, you’re dreaming about that cheesy, savory steak flavor only Philly masters. Well, friend, I figured out how to get the best of both worlds in one spectacular sandwich: the ultimate Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes.
Seriously, these things hit every craving button you have. It’s quick, it’s messy (in the best way!), and it brings that unmistakable savory satisfaction of steak and melted provolone right into a familiar, easy-to-eat format. I absolutely adore this fusion because it takes a nostalgic weeknight staple and elevates it instantly without adding any fuss.
Why You Will Crave These Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Honestly, why wouldn’t you crave these? Once you try this flavor combination, you’ll be hooked. Here’s why this sandwich is going straight into your regular rotation:
- It’s lightning fast—dinner is ready in under 40 minutes, seriously!
- You get that deeply savory cheesesteak profile mixed with comforting sauce.
- Cleanup is a breeze; we’re mostly just using one skillet here.
- It satisfies that hearty, melty, cheesy craving every single time.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
To make these amazing Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes, you don’t need a specialty grocery run. We’re keeping this simple, but don’t skimp on the cheese!
Here’s what you’ll need gathered on your counter before you start:
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 pound of ground beef (or steak, wink wink!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped up real small
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper (each)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water for that perfect simmer
- 4 slices of provolone cheese—and this is non-negotiable for the real Philly feel!
- 4 soft hamburger buns ready to go
Expert Tips for Making the Best Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Even though this is a super simple recipe, a little chef TLC goes a long way for these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes. My number one move, which I always do even when I’m lazy, is to toast the inside of those soft buns! Just press them cut-side down in a dry pan for about a minute until they are lightly golden. This keeps the saucy meat from soaking through instantly. Terrible move when you’re trying to eat dinner!
Also, remember that using ground beef is fast, but if you want to truly capture that authentic, melt-in-your-mouth texture, you have to try it with actual shaved steak sometime. If you need advice on getting your steak perfectly juicy, check out this great guide on cooking steak. That piece has some killer tips.
Ingredient Substitutions for Your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
You absolutely can tweak this! If you’re feeling fancy, swap that ground beef for thinly sliced ribeye steak; it elevates the whole experience, trust me. As for the cheese, Provolone is the key player here, but if you’re out, Swiss is a totally fine substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Okay, putting this incredible sandwich together is so easy it almost feels like cheating! You’re going to follow these steps, and trust me, the smell that fills your kitchen during the simmer phase is pure heaven—it’s like a steakhouse met a summer barbecue.
First things first, let’s get those veggies softened up. You’ll heat that tablespoon of vegetable oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and bell pepper; let them cook down until they’re nice and soft, which takes about five minutes. They should just start to look a little translucent.
- Toss in your pound of ground beef. You need to cook this down, breaking it up with your spoon until it’s completely browned. Don’t forget to drain off any extra grease lurking in the bottom—we want flavor, not oiliness!
- Now for the seasoning! Stir in that garlic powder, salt, and pepper. We cook this for just sixty seconds to wake up those spices.
- Time for the sauce base! Add in the Worcestershire sauce, the whole can of tomato sauce, and the 1/2 cup of water. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
- Bring this whole mixture up to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling slightly, drop the heat way down low, pop a lid on it, and let it go for 15 minutes. Stir it every now and then so nothing sticks to the bottom. If you ever want a great one-pan dish using similar flavors, check out this Cheesesteak Helper recipe.
- When those 15 minutes are up, turn off the heat. Scoop a generous portion of that saucy meat mix right onto the bottom half of each of your buns.
- This is the best part: place one slice of provolone cheese right on top of the meat layer. The residual heat melts it perfectly! Pop the top halves on, and you’re ready to serve these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes immediately.
Serving Suggestions for Your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
These Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are really hearty on their own, so you don’t need massive sides, which is just how I like it for a weeknight!
When I make these, I usually go for something crisp and simple to cut through all that rich cheese and savory beef. A classic bag of ridged potato chips is my first choice—the crunch is just perfect against the soft bun.
If I’m trying to sneak in some veggies, a bright, simple side salad is great. I’ve been making this quick pickled cucumber salad recently, and the tartness cleanses the palate between bites of sloppy joe bliss. Honestly, you can never go wrong with a few crisp dill pickle spears either!
Storage and Reheating Instructions for Leftover Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
Oh, good news! These Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes actually make fantastic leftovers, but you have to store them the right way. Never store the leftover meat mixture on the buns—they’ll just turn into a soggy mess overnight, and we can’t have that!
Keep the saucy meat mixture sealed tightly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three or four days. Do not put the buns in there! Store your buns separately in a plastic bag, just like usual.
When you’re ready to eat them again, I really recommend reheating the meat mixture gently on the stovetop over low heat. This lets the sauce warm evenly and keeps the texture just perfect. Once it’s hot, spoon it onto fresh or toasted buns and top with that glorious provolone cheese!
Frequently Asked Questions About Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
I know when you try a new recipe, especially a fusion like our wonderful Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes, you might have a few quick questions pop up. I’ve gathered the ones I hear the most, so let’s clear those up right now!
Can I make the meat mixture for these Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Absolutely, yes! That’s one of the best parts about this recipe. You can totally cook the meat mixture and sauce entirely ahead of time. I usually make a double batch on Sunday, put the leftover meat in the fridge, and then it’s ready whenever a weeknight dinner emergency strikes. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
What cheese is best if I don’t have provolone?
Provolone really gives you that authentic Philly Cheesesteak vibe we’re going for, but if you’re totally out, Swiss is my second-best suggestion. It melts beautifully and has that slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the savory beef. Some people even use white American cheese if they want that super-gooey texture!
Is it really worth using steak instead of ground beef?
Oh, if you have the time, please try it with shaved steak just once. It changes the texture completely and really leans into the traditional cheesesteak flavor profile. Ground beef is fast and cheap, so it’s perfect for busy nights. But for a weekend treat, the steak takes these Sloppy Joes to the next level. If you’re looking for more ways to use steak in unexpected, cheesy ways, you have to see what I did with that casserole idea over here—it’s amazing! Check out that cheesy bake!
Can I add mushrooms to my Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
You totally can! Mushrooms and onions are best buddies in a real cheesesteak. If you want to add them, just toss them in the skillet right alongside the peppers and onions in Step 1 and cook them down until they release all their liquid.
Nutritional Estimate for Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes
I’ve run the numbers to give you a general idea of what’s packed into these amazing sandwiches! Remember, these figures are just estimates based on the standard ingredients listed. If you use leaner beef or skip the bun, your numbers will change!
For one sandwich serving, here’s the breakdown:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g (with 9g Saturated Fat)
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 750mg
We’re looking at a satisfying, low-fat meal, but watch that sodium level—tomato products can add up quickly!
Share Your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Creations
Now it’s your turn! I’ve shared all my secrets for making these knockout Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes, and I truly hope you love them as much as my family does. Did you go for the ground beef or treat yourself to the steak version?
Seriously, I want to see them! Snap a picture while that provolone is perfectly gooey and tag me online. Or better yet, don’t forget to leave a little star rating and comment below so I know what you thought. If you have any lingering questions, you can always reach out right here: Get in touch! Happy cooking!
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Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and easy sandwich combining the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the sauciness of sloppy joes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook and break up the meat until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Spoon the meat mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
- Place one slice of provolone cheese over the meat mixture on each bun. Top with the remaining bun halves.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a more authentic flavor, use thinly sliced ribeye steak instead of ground beef.
- You can substitute Swiss cheese for provolone if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 750
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 85
Keywords: Philly Cheesesteak, Sloppy Joes, ground beef, provolone cheese, quick dinner, sandwich