Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of two classic favorites—Philly cheesesteak and sloppy joes! This cheesy, flavorful sandwich features ground beef, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers cooked to perfection and topped with melted Provolone cheese. Served on toasted brioche buns, these sandwiches offer a deliciously satisfying meal for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s a fun twist on a classic, and the best part is that it’s super easy to make.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The base of the sandwich, giving it a hearty, savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the vegetables and helps them brown nicely.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and flavor to the dish.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Adds a fresh, slightly tangy taste to balance the richness of the meat and cheese.
- 8 ounces brown mushrooms, minced: Adds an earthy depth of flavor and a meaty texture to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Brings a hint of sweetness and tomato flavor to the sloppy joes.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami and adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt: Seasons the meat and vegetables, bringing out their natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spice and warmth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce for a rich, creamy texture.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds flavor and moisture, creating the sauce for the sloppy joes.
- 8 ounces Provolone Cheese, sliced and chopped: Melts into the mixture, making it cheesy and irresistible.
- 6 brioche hamburger buns: Soft and buttery, the perfect vessel for holding the savory filling.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large cast iron skillet, add the ground beef and let it brown without breaking it apart initially. Allow a deep crust to form on about 50% of the beef before stirring and breaking it into smaller pieces.
- Step 2:
- Once the beef is browned, remove it from the skillet and leave any fat behind. Add the butter, diced onions, bell peppers, and minced mushrooms to the skillet. Let the vegetables brown for 1-2 minutes without stirring, then stir and let them brown for another 1-2 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Return the browned beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Step 4:
- In a small cup, mix together the beef broth and cornstarch. Pour the mixture into the skillet along with the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Step 5:
- Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly and most of the liquid is absorbed, leaving about 75% of the ingredients above the liquid.
- Step 6:
- Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped Provolone cheese. Let the cheese melt into the mixture.
- Step 7:
- Serve the cheesy beef mixture on toasted brioche buns for a delicious and hearty meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are best served fresh and hot, right after the cheese has melted into the beef mixture. The toasted brioche buns add a buttery crunch that pairs perfectly with the savory filling.
- If you have leftovers, store the meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave, and toast the buns again before serving.
- These sloppy joes pair well with classic sides like French fries, a simple green salad, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a spicier twist, try adding some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or even sautéed jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- You can easily customize the recipe by using other cheeses like American, cheddar, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- For a healthier option, you can swap out the brioche buns for whole wheat buns or serve the sloppy joes over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb meal.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay: “When making sloppy joes, don’t rush the browning process. Letting the beef and vegetables get a deep, rich brown adds layers of flavor that elevate the dish.”
- Chef Rachael Ray: “For a fun variation, try using garlic bread instead of regular buns for an extra burst of flavor and texture.”
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Season the meat at every stage—while browning and while simmering—so that each bite is packed with flavor.”