Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Philly Sloppy Joes bring together everything I crave in quick comfort food. Juicy beef, caramelized onion and peppers, and tons of melty cheese all piled on a perfectly toasted bun take weeknight dinner to another level. If you love Philly cheesesteaks and cozy sloppy joes, this is that happy middle ground everyone seems to love at first bite.

I tried this recipe first for a game night and everyone fell in love even my husband swore it was better than takeout and he begs for them every cold rainy day

Ingredients

• Olive oil: helps the beef brown evenly use extra virgin for robust flavor
• Ground beef: main protein look for lean but not dry aim for eighty five percent lean for great taste and juiciness
• Small onion: diced fine for sweetness and for building a deep savory base pick one with papery golden skin
• Green bell pepper: brings that signature cheesesteak flavor make sure it feels firm and heavy for freshness
• Garlic: use fresh cloves for punchy taste avoid sprouts for best flavor
• Reduced sodium beef broth: keeps the dish saucy and full of beefy notes low sodium gives you control over seasoning
• Cornstarch: thickens the filling so it sticks to every bite buy in small quantities for freshness
• Beef bouillon: adds intensity use a reliable paste or cube for richness
• Ketchup: for slight sweetness and tang opt for one with few additives
• Worcestershire sauce: adds umami and makes everything taste more savory
• Dijon mustard: brightens and accentuates the beef pick a creamy jar for smooth blending
• Dried oregano and dried parsley: each one brings herbiness oregano is classic cheesesteak parsley adds freshness
• Salt and pepper: basic essentials grind pepper fresh if you can
• Dried basil and paprika: for depth and a whisper of peppery warmth
• Red pepper flakes: optional brings subtle heat only use more if you love some spice
• Sharp cheddar cheese: melts smooth and gives a strong cheesy bite shred yourself for best melt
• Brioche hamburger buns: soft and just slightly sweet make sandwiches taste like bakery treats pick buns with a delicate crust and pillowy crumb
• Softened butter or mayo: brushing helps you get golden crisp edges try real butter for richer flavor
• Provolone cheese slices: classic topping for cheesesteak vibes buy from the deli counter for freshest taste

Step by Step Instructions

Toast the Buns:

Lay the split brioche buns cut side up on a large baking sheet and brush each with softened butter or mayonnaise if you like added richness Place in a hot oven for five minutes to crisp up the surface This makes the sandwiches sturdy and flavorful

Brown the Beef and Veggies:

Heat olive oil in a big cast iron or heavy bottom skillet over medium high Add ground beef break it up as it cooks and toss in diced onion and green pepper Cook for seven minutes until the beef is browned and onions are translucent Stir regularly to prevent burning

Add the Garlic:

Once beef and veggies are soft and fragrant add minced garlic Cook it just thirty seconds until you can really smell it Careful not to let it brown

Mix the Sauce:

In a measuring cup whisk together beef broth cornstarch and bouillon until there are no lumps Pour this into the skillet then add ketchup Worcestershire sauce Dijon mustard oregano parsley salt pepper basil paprika and red pepper flakes Stir well to combine everything evenly

Simmer the Filling:

Let the mixture cook on medium heat for about five minutes Stir every minute or so until most of the liquid is absorbed but the mixture still looks saucy This step is key for melded flavors and the right Sloppy Joe texture

Melt in the Cheese:

Turn off the heat and fold freshly shredded sharp cheddar into the meat mixture Stir until every bit is melty and creamy Taste for salt pepper or more spice here Some flavors will mellow with cheese and buns so a little extra salt might help

Assemble and Bake:

Pile the cheesy beef filling onto each toasted bun bottom Top each with a thick slice of provolone cheese Arrange sandwiches open faced on the baking sheet Return to the oven for up to ten minutes until the cheese is gooey and bubbling Put on the bun tops and serve immediately

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Storage Tips

Store any leftover meat filling separately in an airtight container for up to three days Refrigerate the toasted buns too but wrap them so they stay a little crisp Gently reheat the beef mixture on the stove with a splash of broth if it thickens up too much

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant based grounds if you want a lighter meal Use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor Red bell pepper can stand in for green if you have picky kids

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Philly Sloppy Joes with homemade potato salad buttery corn on the side or tangy coleslaw For parties set up a topping bar so everyone can add their favorite extras like pickled jalapenos or even hot sauce A crunchy green salad balances everything

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Cultural Context

This recipe is the ultimate blend of two American comfort classics born in Philadelphia cheesesteak style beef meets the saucy homey joy of Sloppy Joes It is a clever mash up that takes all the drama out of making cheesesteaks but captures every last bit of flavor

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of beef works best for this dish?

Lean ground beef is recommended as it cooks quickly and delivers a hearty, flavorful filling while keeping the mixture from becoming greasy.

→ Can I use different cheeses besides provolone and cheddar?

Yes, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even American cheese for a creamy melt. Choose what fits your taste for the gooey topping.

→ How can I make the filling ahead of time?

Prepare the beef mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

→ Are there alternatives to brioche buns?

You can use traditional hamburger buns, hoagie rolls, or even serve the filling in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

→ What sides pair well with these sandwiches?

Try pairing with potato salad, broccoli salad, or pasta salads. Crispy fries or a simple green salad also complement well.