Prepare to dive into a mouthwatering fusion of two all-American favorites. Philly Cheese Sloppy Joes combine the hearty, saucy goodness of sloppy joes with the rich, melty cheese and savory beef of a Philly cheesesteak. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven that’s sure to become a weeknight staple.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of ground beef and sautéed onions and peppers mimics the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors.
- A homemade sloppy joe sauce adds the perfect tangy and sweet balance to the rich meat and cheese.
- Provolone cheese melts beautifully over the meat, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy substitutions to suit any taste or dietary need.
- It’s a quick and easy meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced green bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add the diced onions, green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each serving of the meat mixture. Cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon the cheesy meat mixture onto the hamburger buns and serve immediately. Enjoy the gooey, savory goodness!
Tips and Tricks
For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the vegetable mix. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought sloppy joe sauce instead of making your own. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use low-fat cheese. Toasting the buns before serving adds a nice crunch and prevents them from getting soggy. For a smokier flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the provolone for American or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add mushrooms to the vegetable mix for an earthy twist.
- Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of the dish.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- Serve over toasted garlic bread instead of buns for a gourmet touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture on the stove, add the cheese, and serve on fresh buns.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! The meat mixture freezes well for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I serve with Philly Cheese Sloppy Joes?
Classic sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad pair perfectly with this dish. For a heartier meal, try serving it with sweet potato fries or baked beans.
Summary
Philly Cheese Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy-to-make twist on two classic dishes. With savory beef, melted cheese, and a tangy sauce, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.