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This Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes recipe transforms the classic sandwich into a convenient, family-friendly meal that brings all those beloved flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. My family requests this comfort food mashup at least twice a month because it delivers that perfect combination of cheesy, savory goodness without the fuss of traditional Philly cheese steaks.
I created this recipe during a particularly busy sports season when we needed quick dinners between practices. What started as a convenient solution has become one of our most requested meals especially on chilly evenings when comfort food cravings hit hardest.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Preferably 85/15 lean to fat ratio which provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness without excessive grease
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create caramelization on the vegetables
- Yellow onion: Contributes sweetness and authentic Philly cheese steak flavor; select ones that feel firm with no soft spots
- Green bell pepper: Adds texture and traditional flavor; choose peppers that feel heavy for their size
- Brown mushrooms: Deliver meaty umami depth; smaller ones tend to have better flavor concentration
- Ketchup: Provides tanginess and subtle sweetness; use a quality brand without high fructose corn syrup
- Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and complexity; look for traditional fermented varieties for best results
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to perfect sloppy joe consistency without making it gummy
- Beef broth: Creates a rich savory base; homemade is best but a good quality store bought works wonderfully
- Provolone cheese: Authentic to Philly cheese steaks and melts beautifully; freshly sliced from the deli counter is ideal
- Brioche hamburger buns: Add a touch of sweetness and buttery richness that complements the savory filling perfectly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Developing the Beef Flavor:
- Heat your large cast iron skillet over medium high heat until it's properly hot. Add the ground beef and let it develop a deep brown crust before breaking it apart. This initial searing is crucial for maximum flavor development. Continue cooking until about half the beef has a rich brown crust, which creates that authentic steak flavor foundation.
- Building the Vegetable Base:
- Remove the beef but leave behind any rendered fat. Add butter to the skillet along with your diced onions, bell peppers, and minced mushrooms. Allow them to brown undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes. This brief period of contact creates beautiful caramelization. Then stir and let them brown for another 1 to 2 minutes. The slight char on the vegetables mimics the griddle flavor of authentic Philly cheese steaks.
- Creating the Sauce:
- Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Whisk together beef broth and cornstarch in a small cup until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this mixture into the skillet along with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to combine all those delicious flavors. This creates the perfect saucy base that distinguishes these as sloppy joes rather than just seasoned meat.
- Thickening the Mixture:
- Allow everything to simmer until it thickens to the perfect consistency, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. You want most of the liquid to reduce but still have enough sauce to make it properly sloppy. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon but still be loose enough to create that signature messiness that makes sloppy joes so satisfying.
- Adding the Cheese:
- Turn off the heat completely before adding your chopped Provolone cheese. Stir it into the hot mixture until it melts completely, creating a rich, gooey sauce that clings to every bite of meat and vegetables. The residual heat melts the cheese perfectly without overcooking it, preserving its creamy texture and flavor.
- Serving Your Creation:
- Toast your brioche buns lightly for structural integrity and enhanced flavor. Pile the Philly Cheese Steak mixture generously onto the bottom halves, allowing some to spill over the edges for that authentic sloppy joe experience. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately while the cheese is still gloriously melty.
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The minced mushrooms in this recipe are my secret weapon. They not only add incredible umami depth but also extend the meat while keeping everything juicy. My son who claims to hate mushrooms devours this meal without ever detecting them. The fine mince allows them to blend perfectly with the ground beef while amplifying the meaty flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
This recipe actually develops even better flavor when made a day ahead. Store the mixture separately from the buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture, and warm slowly over medium low heat until just heated through. Add fresh cheese during reheating for the best melty consistency.
Customization Ideas
While this recipe delivers authentic Philly cheese steak flavor, you can easily customize it to your preference. Swap green peppers for sweeter red ones, use white mushrooms if brown aren't available, or try different cheese options like American or Cheez Whiz for that authentic South Philly experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sloppy joes with classic sides like baked french fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad for balance. The sandwiches themselves are substantial enough to be a complete meal, but adding a pickle spear and some cherry tomatoes creates a colorful, satisfying plate.
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This dish has become a beloved staple in our home, ensuring hearty, flavorful meals with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Ground pork also works well, though it will have a different flavor profile. For a plant-based option, you could use a meat substitute like Beyond or Impossible meat. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly with different proteins.
- → What can I use instead of provolone cheese?
While provolone provides the authentic Philly cheese steak flavor, you can substitute with American cheese, white cheddar, mozzarella, or even Cheez Whiz for a more traditional Philly taste. Swiss or Gruyère also work well with the beef and vegetable mixture. For best results, choose a cheese that melts smoothly.
- → How can I make this dish ahead of time?
The beef and vegetable mixture can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then add the cheese and stir until melted. Toast the buns just before serving for the best texture contrast.
- → What sides pair well with these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes?
Classic pairings include french fries, potato chips, or onion rings for an authentic sandwich shop experience. For healthier options, consider a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw. Pickle spears on the side add a nice tangy contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the sandwich.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a chopped hot pepper with the vegetables. You can also add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture while cooking. Another option is to include pepper jack cheese instead of or alongside the provolone. Serve with hot giardiniera or cherry peppers on the side for those who prefer extra spice.
- → Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
Yes, the meat mixture freezes well without the buns. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight freezer containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. Fresh cheese can be added during reheating for the best texture.