Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are messy in the best way possible and loaded with Philly cheesesteak flavor! Perfect for game day, family dinners, or a casual gathering, this dish combines the classic tastes of a Philly cheesesteak with the fun and ease of sloppy joes. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare while delivering a satisfying and hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: Each bite is filled with the rich flavors of provolone cheese, savory beef, and fresh veggies.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these sloppy joes on sandwich buns or over rice for a fun twist!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties or gatherings, this meal is sure to impress your guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or extra cheese.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, gather your essential tools. Having everything on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the ingredients.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps in mixing and serving without breaking apart the sloppy joes.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements will give you the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

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

For the Sloppy Joes Filling

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

For Serving

• 8 sandwich buns

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

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

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Vegetables

Saute 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: Cook Ground Sirloin

Add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add ground sirloin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brown the meat with the seasonings. Drain off excess fat if any.

CHEF’S NOTE: We used ground sirloin as it’s leaner and we don’t need to drain it.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add beef bouillon base and tomato paste; stir into the cooked meat. Add reserved vegetables back to the skillet.

Step 5: Simmer for Flavor

Add water and stir everything together. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow seasonings to blend and let the sauce thicken.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese

Stir in shredded cheese until melted. Serve on sandwich buns.

Enjoy your delicious Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are perfect for a casual dinner or game day feast. With their rich flavors and delicious toppings, you can serve them in various ways to please your guests.

Classic Style

• Serve on toasted sandwich buns for a traditional approach that highlights the messy goodness of the filling.

With Extra Cheese

• Add extra shredded provolone or melted cheese sauce on top to create an indulgent cheesy experience.

Topped with Peppers

• Garnish with sautéed bell peppers and onions for an added crunch and flavor boost.

Spicy Kick

• Include jalapeños or hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat with their sloppy joes.

Fresh Side Salad

• Pair with a crisp garden salad to balance the richness of the sloppy joes and add freshness to your meal.

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How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

To ensure your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose quality meat: Using lean ground sirloin helps keep the dish flavorful without excess fat.
• Don’t rush the vegetables: Sautéing them until tender-crisp enhances their natural sweetness and texture.
• Mix spices well: Make sure to evenly distribute chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for consistent flavor throughout.
• Simmer for flavor: Allowing the mixture to simmer lets all the ingredients meld together beautifully.
• Top with cheese last: Stirring in cheese at the end ensures it melts perfectly without becoming rubbery.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve while hot and fresh from the skillet.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Pairing your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes with delicious sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some ideas:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they add a nice contrast to the savory sloppy joes.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing texture that complements the richness of the sandwiches.
3. Potato Chips: Simple yet satisfying, crispy chips provide an additional crunch that everyone loves.
4. Macaroni Salad: Creamy pasta salad is a classic side that adds comfort to your meal.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brings a smoky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with sloppy joes.
6. Pickles or Pickled Veggies: The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, adding balance and brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sautéing of vegetables: Not sautéing the onions and peppers can lead to a raw taste. Always cook them until tender for a better flavor.
• Using low-quality meat: Poor quality ground beef can result in greasy and unappetizing sloppy joes. Opt for lean ground sirloin for the best results.
• Not seasoning properly: Overlooking seasonings, like chili powder and garlic powder, can make your dish bland. Make sure to follow the recipe closely.
• Rushing the simmering process: Skipping the simmer time won’t allow flavors to meld properly. Let it simmer for at least 15 minutes to enhance taste.
• Overloading on cheese: While cheese is essential, too much can make the dish overly rich or messy. Stick to the recommended amount for balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes:

How do I make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes healthier?

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and load up on more vegetables for added nutrition.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute provolone with mozzarella or even cheddar for different flavors.

What should I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

These sandwiches pair well with sides like coleslaw, fries, or a simple green salad.

How do I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Add your favorite toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra kick!

Final Thoughts

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy cravings. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors!