Get ready for a fun twist on a classic! These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes mix tender beef, melted cheese, and tasty peppers all in a soft bun. It’s messy but oh-so-delicious!
Perfect for a casual dinner, I love how quick they are to whip up. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy extra cheese dripping down their chin? 😉 Grab some napkins, and enjoy the mess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, bringing flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian take, use lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Onion and bell pepper: These add sweetness and crunch. Any color onion works, but I love yellow for its balanced flavor. You could substitute with shallots or leeks, and red bell peppers can be used instead of green for a sweeter touch.
Mushrooms: Though optional, they add a nice earthy flavor. If you’re not a fan, omit them or replace with diced zucchini for added veggies. Canned mushrooms can provide ease but may lack texture.
Cheese: Provolone is great for this recipe, but feel free to swap in mozzarella or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. Vegan cheese options are available if you want a dairy-free version.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef just right can be tricky. You want it browned and seared for flavor, but not overdone. Here’s how:
- Break the meat apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Don’t rush the process; give it about 5-7 minutes on medium-high heat.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it after browning for a leaner mix.
- Season as you go; this helps to build flavor in every bite.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 4 burger buns, toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if you’re using them). Sauté everything together until the vegetables are nice and softened, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, turn up the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef into the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned all the way through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if there’s too much!
4. Simmer the Mixture:
Once the beef is browned, return it to the skillet if you drained it. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Bring this all to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and place the provolone cheese slices on top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey—perfect for that cheesy goodness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve that amazing cheesy beef mixture onto the toasted burger buns. Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes while they’re warm and gooey—your family and friends will love them!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef. Just be aware that they might require a little extra seasoning to boost the flavor. You can add more salt, pepper, or even some smoked paprika for a richer taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
If you don’t have provolone on hand, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even Swiss. Each will offer a different flavor profile, but they all melt well and complement the beef mixture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. For the best texture, consider reheating in a skillet to keep the buns from getting soggy.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! You can add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even jalapeños for a bit of heat. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions and peppers for a uniform flavor and texture. Enjoy experimenting!
