Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Well, meet Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes—a match made in sandwich heaven! By combining two iconic dishes, this recipe not only gives you the best of both worlds, but it also delivers hearty, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak along with the rich, saucy goodness of Sloppy Joes. Together, they come together in one epic meal.

Furthermore, this dish is perfect for busy families, students, or anyone who loves a quick and easy dinner. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, uses budget-friendly ingredients, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping this up for lunch, a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe fits the bill.

Just imagine the tender ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, melted provolone, all stuffed into a soft roll. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! Even better, it requires only a few simple ingredients and a single pan, making cleanup super easy. So, let’s dive into this delicious fusion of two all-time favorite comfort foods.

The Origins: Philly Cheesesteak Meets Sloppy Joes

Before you jump into the kitchen, let’s first talk about the two iconic American sandwiches that inspire this recipe.

To begin with, the Philly cheesesteak, as you might guess, hails from Philadelphia. Traditionally, it’s made with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, all served on a long hoagie roll. Interestingly, it was invented by Pat and Harry Olivieri in the 1930s and quickly became a Philly staple, as well as an all-American favorite. If you’re curious, you can read more about the history of the Philly cheesesteak and how it’s made in the city of brotherly love.

Meanwhile, Sloppy Joes have been a comfort food favorite in American homes since the 1920s. Originally, they were a loose meat sandwich mixed with tomato sauce and served on a bun. Sloppy Joes are known for being affordable, filling, and incredibly simple to make. By combining the flavor-packed, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak with the tangy, saucy essence of Sloppy Joes, you end up with a sandwich that’s pure magic.

For further details on the authentic Philly cheesesteak, be sure to check out this resource.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

If you’re still unsure about making this dish, here are a few reasons why it definitely deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation:

First of all, it’s family-friendly: This recipe is perfect for both kids and adults. The flavors are mild yet satisfying, so even picky eaters will love it.
In addition, it’s quick and easy: You can have this meal on the table in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Moreover, it’s budget-friendly: Using ground beef makes this dish more affordable than traditional Philly cheesesteaks, which often require pricier cuts like ribeye steak.
Lastly, it’s a one-pan meal: You only need one skillet, which means minimal cleanup—a big win for any home cook.

Altogether, this recipe brings the bold, cheesy, and savory flavors you crave, combined with the convenience and comfort of a classic Sloppy Joe.

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients and Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes:

Core Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef: You can use either lean or regular ground beef. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
1 onion, diced: Yellow or white onions are best due to their mild sweetness.
1 green bell pepper, diced: This ingredient adds both sweetness and a nice crunch to the mix.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives great depth of flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
4-6 hoagie rolls or hamburger buns: Hoagie rolls are traditional for cheesesteaks, however, any soft roll will work just fine.
8 slices provolone cheese: Provolone is key for that classic Philly cheesesteak taste. Alternatively, you can use mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This adds a rich, umami flavor to the beef, enhancing the overall taste.
1 tablespoon ketchup: This is optional, but it provides a nice touch of sweetness and tang.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season the beef mixture to your preference.
Olive oil for cooking: Use this for sautéing the vegetables and browning the meat.

Optional Add-ons:

Red bell peppers: For an extra boost, these will add more sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms are a fantastic addition, as they bring even more flavor and texture.
Hot sauce: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce will give the sandwich a spicy kick.
Mayo: For extra creaminess, spread a little mayo on the rolls before adding the beef mixture.

Substitutions:

Low-carb option: If you’re avoiding bread, swap out the hoagie rolls for lettuce wraps. You can also try serving the beef mixture over cauliflower rice. For more low-carb ideas, check out these quick and easy keto dinner recipes.
Gluten-free: Simply use gluten-free rolls or serve the filling over a bed of rice or even zucchini noodles.

How to Make Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes:

1: Prepare the Vegetables

Dice the onion and green bell pepper into small pieces.
Mince the garlic cloves and set them aside.

2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s fully browned (about 5-7 minutes).
Season with salt and pepper. If you’re using a fattier ground beef, drain off the excess fat before proceeding.

3: Sauté the Vegetables

Push the browned beef to the side of the skillet and add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4: Mix and Flavor the Filling

Stir the vegetables into the ground beef, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
Add the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup (if using), and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5: Prepare the Rolls

Preheat your oven to broil.
Lay the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet and place a slice of provolone cheese inside each roll.
Broil the rolls for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and starts to bubble.

6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spoon the beef mixture into the cheesy rolls. Add any additional toppings like hot sauce or mayo, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the melty, savory goodness!

Close-up of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe sandwich with melted provolone cheese, sautéed peppers, onions, and ground beef on a hoagie roll, served with crispy potato wedges.

Delicious Variations for Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations:

Low-carb Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps: Swap out the hoagie rolls for lettuce leaves to turn this into a low-carb meal. This is perfect for those following a keto diet or trying to reduce carbs. For more inspiration, check out these quick and easy keto dinner recipes.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders: Make smaller versions of this recipe using slider buns for parties or game day snacks. They’re easy to hold and packed with flavor.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: Turn this recipe into a casserole by spreading the beef mixture in a baking dish, topping with provolone cheese, and baking until bubbly. It’s a great option for family dinners or meal prep.

Low-carb Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps with ground beef, melted cheese, and crisp bell peppers.

Time-Saving Tips and Recipe Shortcuts

We know life can get busy, so here are some time-saving hacks to make this recipe even quicker:

Pre-cut vegetables: Buy pre-diced onions and bell peppers at the grocery store to cut down on prep time.
Meal prep the filling: Cook a double batch of the beef mixture and freeze half for later. That way, you’ll have a quick meal ready in no time!
One-pan wonder: This entire dish is made in just one skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax.

How to Make this Recipe a Freezer Meal

Want to make this meal ahead of time and freeze it for later? Here’s how:

Cool the beef mixture: After cooking the beef and vegetables, let the mixture cool completely.
Package for freezing: Transfer the cooled beef mixture to a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze: Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thaw and reheat: When you’re ready to use, thaw the mixture overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, and serve in fresh rolls.

Freezer meals like this one are perfect for meal prepping or when you need a quick and easy dinner during busy weeks.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Wondering what to serve alongside this savory dish? Well, here are some side ideas that pair perfectly:

First, Crispy Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges add a crispy contrast to the soft sandwich, making them a great choice.
For a healthier option, consider Steamed Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans are nutritious and complement the flavors well.
Finally, try Quick and fluffy dinner rolls without yeast: These soft, fluffy rolls are an excellent complement to the rich cheesesteak filling, balancing out the meal.

Leftovers and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them for maximum flavor:

Storing leftovers: First, place the beef mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep it fresh.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply warm the mixture on the stove over medium heat. If needed, add a little water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Creative leftover ideas: For a fun twist, use the filling to make stuffed peppers, top it on baked potatoes, or serve it over nachos for a delicious and easy variation!

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef

First of all, ground beef is a great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins. In addition, it provides the energy and nutrients your family needs to stay full and satisfied. For more details, be sure to check out this guide on the nutritional benefits of ground beef to see how it can benefit your diet.

How to Adapt for Dietary Needs

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can easily be adapted for different dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free rolls or serve the beef mixture over a bed of rice or vegetables.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese altogether or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to achieve the same delicious results.
Lower Fat: If you’re looking to reduce fat, opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of the dish.

Tips for Meal Prepping Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Want to make your life easier by meal prepping? Here’s how:

Double the recipe: Cook twice the amount of beef mixture and store in meal-sized portions.
Freeze for later: Divide the mixture into individual servings, freeze, and you’ll have a ready-to-go meal at your fingertips.
Quick assembly: When it’s time to eat, simply reheat the filling and serve in fresh buns or lettuce wraps for a speedy meal.

FAQs: Answering Common Questions About Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the mixture and assemble the sandwiches for a quick and easy meal.

2. How do I reheat without losing flavor?

The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or beef broth to keep the mixture moist while reheating.

3. Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Absolutely! Swap the hoagie rolls for lettuce wraps, or serve the beef mixture over cauliflower rice. For more low-carb meal ideas, check out these quick and easy keto dinner recipes.

4. What are good bread alternatives?

If you’re looking to change things up, try sourdough! Not only does it add a slight tanginess, but it also pairs beautifully with the beef mixture. For more inspiration, check out these delicious sourdough bread sandwich ideas.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, definitely! The beef mixture freezes beautifully. First, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat for a quick, delicious meal.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of two comfort food classics. Not only is this dish easy and cheesy, but it’s also packed with flavor, making it a guaranteed favorite in your household. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, this recipe has you covered. Even better, it’s adaptable for various dietary needs and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your own twists and variations with us! Ultimately, this delicious dish is sure to create memorable moments around the table with your loved ones.

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