There’s something magical about a Philly cheesesteak—the sizzling beef, gooey cheese, and perfectly sautéed onions and peppers. But what if you could combine that classic flavor with the messiness and heartiness of a sloppy joe? Enter the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, a savory, cheesy, and utterly comforting sandwich that brings together the best of both worlds.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you crave something indulgent yet easy to whip up. Plus, with a few simple tweaks, you can make it healthier, spicier, or even vegetarian! In this article, we’ll walk you through everything—from ingredients and cooking steps to expert tips, common mistakes, and serving suggestions.
Introduction
What Are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Ever wondered what happens when you take the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and blend them with the classic comfort of a sloppy joe? You get a juicy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying sandwich that’s both nostalgic and innovative.
Instead of thinly sliced steak, we use ground beef—which makes this recipe budget-friendly and quick to cook. Toss in some onions, bell peppers, Worcestershire sauce, and melty provolone, and you’ve got a meal that’s as flavorful as it is messy-in-the-best-way!
This dish is not only kid-approved, but it’s also a hit with anyone who loves a good, hearty sandwich. And the best part? It takes under 30 minutes from start to finish!
The Origin of the Fusion Recipe
The Philly cheesesteak hails from Philadelphia, where it became an iconic street food in the 1930s. Traditionally, it’s made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese, all served on a hoagie roll. On the other hand, the sloppy joe—an American diner favorite—dates back to the early 20th century, featuring ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce.
Bringing these two legends together was inevitable! This fusion recipe takes the beefy richness of a cheesesteak and the sloppy, saucy goodness of a joe—resulting in a meal that’s bold, messy, and ridiculously delicious.
Ingredients and Equipment
Now that you know what makes Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes such a mouthwatering delight, let’s talk about what you need to bring this dish to life. The beauty of this recipe is that it requires simple, everyday ingredients, yet it delivers big, bold flavors.
Essential Ingredients
To achieve that perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavors, here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef – Go for an 80/20 blend to get the best balance of juiciness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 small onion (diced) – This adds a subtle sweetness and a classic cheesesteak flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced) – Brings a slight crunch and earthy flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Because let’s be real, garlic makes everything better!
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – This is the secret weapon that gives the meat that umami-packed depth.
- 1 cup beef broth – Helps create that rich, saucy consistency.
- 1 tbsp ketchup – A touch of sweetness balances the dish.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water – This creates a thicker, velvety sauce that clings to the beef.
Cheese Options
Ah, the cheese—arguably the most important part! While Philly cheesesteak purists swear by provolone, some love the melty goodness of American cheese. You can also go with:
- Provolone (classic choice) – Mild, slightly smoky, and melts beautifully.
- White American cheese – Extra gooey and creamy, great if you love a milder flavor.
- Cheez Whiz – If you want authentic Philly vibes, go for it!
Buns
A good sandwich starts with great bread. For the best experience:
- Brioche buns – Buttery, slightly sweet, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Hoagie rolls – The classic choice for a true Philly cheesesteak experience.
- Potato buns – Super soft and slightly sweet, great for a more traditional sloppy joe feel.
Optional Add-Ins
Feeling adventurous? Customize your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes with these tasty extras:
- Mushrooms – For an added earthy, umami kick.
- Jalapeños – If you love a bit of heat.
- A splash of hot sauce – For those who like their food bold and spicy.
Necessary Kitchen Equipment
You don’t need a fancy setup to make this hearty, cheesy delight—just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Large skillet – Preferably cast iron for the best browning on the beef.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – To break up the meat and stir everything together.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – For chopping veggies like a pro.
- Measuring spoons and cups – Because precision = perfection.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve got all the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to bring this cheesy, beefy masterpiece to life! Follow these simple steps to make the most flavorful, juicy, and downright irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes.
Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables
Before you start cooking, take a few minutes to chop your veggies. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents overcooking anything while you scramble for ingredients.
- Dice the onion and bell pepper into small, even pieces. This allows them to cook quickly and blend seamlessly with the meat.
- Mince the garlic as finely as possible—this helps distribute its bold flavor evenly throughout the dish.
Expert Tips and Flavor Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, let’s talk about how to take it up a notch! Whether you want to make it healthier, spicier, or just extra indulgent, these expert tips and creative variations will help you customize this dish to perfection.
Expert Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
- Use fresh, quality beef – Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a juicier, more flavorful result. If using leaner beef, add a splash of olive oil or butter for moisture.
- Let the cheese melt naturally – Instead of mixing the cheese in right away, let it melt on top of the meat before stirring. This gives you gooey, stretchy bites in every mouthful.
- Toast the buns properly – A lightly crispy bun prevents sogginess and adds extra flavor. A quick toast in butter makes all the difference!
- Don’t overcook the beef – Once the meat is browned, reduce the heat and simmer gently with the sauce. This keeps it tender and juicy rather than dry.
- Adjust the sauce consistency – Want a thicker mixture? Let it simmer a little longer. Prefer it extra saucy? Add a splash more beef broth!
Flavor Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun, tasty variations to make this dish even more exciting!
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Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
- Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and peppers.
- Stir in a splash of hot sauce or sriracha for a fiery kick.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone for an extra-spicy twist!
-
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Version
- Swap the bun for lettuce wraps, a portobello mushroom cap, or serve it over cauliflower rice.
- Use full-fat cheese like cheddar or provolone to keep it keto-approved.
- Replace Worcestershire sauce with coconut aminos for a lower-carb alternative.
-
Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
- Swap out ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or crumbled tofu.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Add extra bell peppers, zucchini, or caramelized onions for more texture.
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Extra-Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
- Mix in a blend of provolone, cheddar, and mozzarella for ultimate cheesiness.
- Stir in cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
- Top with extra melted cheese before serving for that irresistible pull-apart effect!
Final Thoughts on Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
And there you have it—your new go-to comfort food that’s messy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor! The Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of savory, saucy, and satisfying, making them a hit for weeknight dinners, game nights, or anytime you’re craving something hearty and delicious.
What makes this recipe even better? It’s quick, customizable, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you prefer it classic, spicy, extra cheesy, or even low-carb, there’s a way to make this dish fit your taste perfectly.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, toast those buns, and get ready for a sloppy, cheesy bite of pure comfort food bliss! 
Pro tip: If you want a milder onion flavor, soak the diced onion in cold water for 5 minutes before cooking.
Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a drizzle of oil, then toss in the ground beef.
- Break it apart using a wooden spoon or spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once cooked, drain excess grease to prevent a greasy sandwich.
Pro tip: Want extra flavor? Instead of draining the fat completely, leave about a tablespoon—it keeps the meat juicy!
Step 3: Adding the Veggies and Seasonings
- Toss in the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds (until fragrant but not burned).
- Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to coat the meat in its rich, umami goodness.
- Add the ketchup for a hint of sweetness and a touch of beef broth to create a juicy, saucy mixture.
Step 4: Thickening the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir well.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef.
Pro tip: If you prefer an extra saucy version, add an extra splash of beef broth!
Step 5: Melting the Cheese
- Lower the heat to medium-low.
- Layer the slices of provolone (or your preferred cheese) on top of the beef mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir everything together until the cheese fully blends into the beef.
Pro tip: For a cheesier experience, mix in extra shredded cheese before serving!
Step 6: Toasting the Buns
- Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Spread a little butter on each bun.
- Place them cut-side down and toast for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Pro tip: No time? You can also toast them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes!
Step 7: Assembling the Sloppy Joes
- Place a generous scoop of the cheesy beef mixture onto each toasted bun.
- Add extra toppings if desired (pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, or even crispy onions!).
- Top with the bun lid, and get ready for the most satisfying bite ever!
Pro tip: Serve immediately while hot, with your favorite side dish!
Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes!