Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are messy in the best way possible and loaded with classic Philly flavor! Perfect for game day, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe brings the beloved cheesesteak experience into an easy and fun sandwich form. The combination of savory beef, colorful peppers, and gooey cheese creates a dish that is sure to impress everyone at your table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sauce Mixture
• For Topping
• For Serving
• How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Vegetables
• Step 3: Brown the Meat
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Simmer
• Step 6: Add Cheese
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
• On a Toasted Bun
• With Extra Cheese
• Topped with Pickled Jalapeños
• Served with Crispy Fries
• Accompanied by Coleslaw
• With a Side of Potato Chips
• How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
• Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
• Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes special?
• Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
• How do I serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
• Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can whip up these delicious sandwiches in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with the rich flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak, thanks to the blend of spices and quality ingredients.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these messy sandwiches—perfect for sharing!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with fries, salad, or on their own for a satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: These sloppy joes taste even better the next day, making them great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Chopping board
• Plate for cooked vegetables

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is essential for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: A sturdy utensil helps you mix ingredients thoroughly without scratching your cookware.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping the veggies quick and easy.

Ingredients

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are messy in the best way possible and loaded with Philly cheesesteak flavor!

For the Sauce Mixture

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 pound ground sirloin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Better than Bouillon beef base
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water

For Topping

• 5 ounces shredded provolone cheese (we used smoked provolone)

For Serving

• 8 sandwich buns

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Vegetables

• Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Add the red onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.
• Sauté until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Remove cooked vegetables to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add ground sirloin along with chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Brown the meat with the seasonings. Drain off excess fat if any (Note: Using ground sirloin means less fat).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add beef bouillon base and tomato paste to the cooked meat. Stir well to combine. Add back the reserved vegetables from earlier.

Step 5: Simmer

Add water to the skillet and stir everything together. Bring to a boil then lower heat; let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Stir in shredded cheese until melted.

Step 7: Serve

Serve on sandwich buns while hot for an irresistible meal everyone will love!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Serving Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes is all about enhancing the flavor and experience of this delicious dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these messy yet flavorful sandwiches.

On a Toasted Bun

• Toasting your sandwich buns adds a delightful crunch and keeps them from getting soggy.

With Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, adding more provolone or even a blend of cheeses can elevate the gooey goodness of your sloppy joes.

Topped with Pickled Jalapeños

• A spicy twist! Pickled jalapeños add a zesty kick that pairs well with the rich flavors of the beef and cheese.

Served with Crispy Fries

• Pairing these sloppy joes with crispy fries makes for a classic dinner combo everyone will love.

Accompanied by Coleslaw

• A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the savory richness of the dish.

With a Side of Potato Chips

• Simple and easy! A handful of potato chips provides a satisfying crunch alongside your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes.

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How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

To make sure your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes turn out perfectly, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Use Quality Meat: Ground sirloin is ideal for its lean texture, but you can also experiment with other ground meats for different flavors.

• Don’t Skip the Vegetables: The combination of peppers and onions enhances the overall taste. Make sure they’re cooked just right!

• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the mixture to simmer lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. Patience is key!

• Melt Cheese Thoroughly: Stirring in cheese until completely melted ensures every bite is cheesy and delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Pairing side dishes with your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. French Fries: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—perfect for dipping in any leftover sauce!

2. Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative that adds sweetness to balance the savory flavors of your sandwiches.

3. Onion Rings: Crunchy and flavorful, onion rings provide an irresistible texture contrast to your sloppy joes.

4. Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh veggies offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, cheesy sandwiches.

5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy and comforting, this side dish complements the bold flavors without overpowering them.

6. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs wonderfully with savory sloppy joes, making for a hearty meal.

7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet element that brightens up the plate beautifully.

8. Potato Salad: This classic side is creamy and filling, making it an excellent partner for your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of meat: Ground sirloin is best for a leaner option. Avoid fatty ground beef that requires draining, as it can make the dish greasy.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Ensure your onions and peppers are tender-crisp. If you cook them too long, they may lose their vibrant flavor and texture.
• Skipping seasoning: The right spices are crucial. Don’t forget the chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder; they enhance the overall taste.
• Not letting it simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer helps flavors meld. Skipping this step can result in a bland dish.
• Choosing the wrong cheese: Provolone adds a great flavor. Avoid using cheeses that don’t melt well or are too strong, which can overpower the dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Place cooled sloppy joes in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes special?

Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes combine classic cheesesteak flavors with the comfort of sloppy joes, making them messy yet delicious.

Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like mushrooms or swap out provolone for cheese whiz for a more traditional cheesesteak experience.

How do I serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Serve these sandwiches on soft buns with extra cheese and toppings like jalapeños or pickles for added flavor.

Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version of Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes.

Final Thoughts

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes offer a delightful twist on two classic dishes. They’re perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients to make them your own!