Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: A Messy, Flavor-Packed Family Favorite!
Experience the best of two beloved American comfort foods in one irresistibly messy and delicious dish: Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes! This innovative recipe combines the savory, cheesy goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the easy, saucy appeal of sloppy joes. Featuring tender ground sirloin, vibrant bell peppers, sweet onions, and an abundance of melty provolone cheese, all piled high on soft sandwich buns, this meal is destined to become a new family favorite. Get ready for a flavorful journey that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion craving hearty, satisfying comfort food.
Why This Recipe Is an Absolute Winner
Our Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a brilliant fusion that brings together the best attributes of two iconic sandwiches. Imagine the rich, savory profile of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich – those tender onions and bell peppers, and of course, that signature gooey, melty provolone cheese. Now, combine that with the delightful, easy-to-eat messiness of a good old sloppy joe. That’s exactly what you get here!
Instead of the thinly shaved beef typically found in a traditional Philly cheesesteak, we opt for lean ground sirloin. This clever swap is what truly makes them “sloppy” and incredibly easy to prepare. Ground meat naturally creates a saucier, more cohesive filling, perfect for spooning onto buns without the need for complex slicing or handling of steak. The ground sirloin ensures you get a hearty, meaty texture while still soaking up all the incredible flavors. You won’t miss the shaved steak one bit when you’re sinking your teeth into this flavor-packed, cheesy concoction!
This recipe also excels in its ability to deliver authentic taste with minimal fuss. The combination of sautéed red and green bell peppers, sweet red onion, and aromatic garlic creates the foundational sweetness and savory depth synonymous with a great Philly cheesesteak. Layered with robust seasonings like chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder, and then bound together with a rich beef bouillon base and a touch of tomato paste, the sauce becomes incredibly flavorful and deeply satisfying. Finally, the generous addition of provolone cheese melts into a wonderfully creamy, stretchy topping that ties all the elements together. It’s a complete meal that’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for any gathering.
Gather Your Ingredients for This Delicious Creation
Creating these incredible Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes requires a few simple, yet essential, ingredients. Most of these are likely pantry staples or easily found at your local grocery store. What makes this recipe truly special is how these common ingredients come together to produce an extraordinary depth of flavor. We’ve laid out everything you need below, and for precise measurements and detailed steps, be sure to check out the printable recipe card at the very end of this post!
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips & Substitutions
- BEEF: We highly recommend using ground sirloin for this recipe due to its leaner profile (typically 90/10 or even 93/7). This means less excess fat to drain, resulting in a cleaner, more robust flavor for your sloppy joe mixture. If ground sirloin isn’t available, any lean ground beef will work, but be prepared to drain off any accumulated fat after browning. For those looking for an alternative, ground turkey or chicken can also be used, though they will subtly alter the traditional Philly cheesesteak flavor profile. If using poultry, you might want to add a bit of extra beef bouillon base or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to boost the umami.
- CHEESE: Smoked provolone cheese is our top choice, as it adds a wonderful depth and a slight smoky note that complements the beef and vegetables perfectly. Regular provolone is an excellent substitute if smoked isn’t readily available. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other melty cheeses like sharp cheddar, white cheddar, havarti, gouda, or even mozzarella for a different twist. We’ve called for 5 ounces, which provides a great cheesy coating, but feel free to increase this to up to 8 ounces if you’re a serious cheese lover!
Chef’s Tip: For the best melting consistency and flavor, we strongly advise shredding your own cheese directly from a block. Pre-bagged shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose, which can prevent them from melting smoothly and can lead to a slightly gritty texture. Freshly shredded cheese melts into a beautifully gooey, uniform sauce, just like a classic Philly cheesesteak should!
- BELL PEPPERS & ONION: The combination of red and green bell peppers provides both vibrant color and a balanced sweetness, while the red onion adds a classic savory bite. Ensure they are finely chopped for even cooking and distribution throughout the sloppy joe mixture. For an added layer of flavor or heat, consider adding thinly sliced mushrooms alongside the peppers and onions, or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- SEASONINGS: Chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder are key to building the rich, savory base of these sloppy joes. These spices, combined with fresh minced garlic, create a depth of flavor that really makes the beef sing. Don’t skimp on these!
- BEEF BOUILLON BASE & TOMATO PASTE: We use a concentrated bouillon base (like Better than Bouillon) for its intense beefy flavor and convenience. It’s easily reconstituted with water, providing a richer taste than many pre-packaged broths. Tomato paste adds a concentrated umami and helps thicken the sauce, contributing to that satisfying sloppy consistency. If you only have beef broth, you can substitute the water and bouillon base with an equal amount of good quality beef broth or stock.
- OLIVE OIL: Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef, ensuring everything cooks perfectly and evenly.
- WATER: Essential for creating the saucy consistency and allowing the flavors to meld during simmering.
- SANDWICH BUNS: Soft, sturdy sandwich buns are ideal for holding this hearty filling. Brioche, potato rolls, or even a classic white hamburger bun will work wonderfully. For an authentic touch, you could even try toasting them lightly before serving.
Crafting Your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe with ease. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version, complete with all measurements and instructions at the bottom of the page.
Making Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes is a straightforward process that comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result!
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- Cook the Vegetables: Next, add the chopped red onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these vibrant vegetables until they are tender-crisp, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. You want them to retain a slight bite. Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, keeping them warm while you prepare the meat.
- Brown the Ground Sirloin: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Introduce the ground sirloin, chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder. Break up the meat with a spatula as it browns, ensuring it’s evenly cooked and mixed with the seasonings.
CHEF’S NOTE: Since we’re using lean ground sirloin (90/10 or higher), you likely won’t have much, if any, excess fat to drain. If you’re using a fattier ground beef, drain off any excess grease before proceeding to the next step to prevent a greasy final product.
- Combine Flavors: Stir in the beef bouillon base and tomato paste into the cooked ground sirloin. Mix thoroughly until the paste is fully incorporated. Return the reserved, cooked vegetables to the skillet with the meat mixture.
- Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the water and stir everything together to combine all the ingredients and create a saucy base. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This crucial step allows the seasonings to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken to that perfect “sloppy” consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Melt the Cheese & Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are fully developed, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded provolone cheese (or your cheese of choice) until it is completely melted and beautifully gooey, creating that signature Philly cheesesteak texture. Serve the warm, cheesy sloppy joe mixture generously piled onto soft sandwich buns. Enjoy immediately!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the mixture on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions until hot. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
While our recipe doesn’t explicitly include Worcestershire sauce, it’s a popular addition to many sloppy joe recipes for its tangy, umami-rich flavor. If you enjoy that depth, feel free to add a few generous shakes (1-2 teaspoons) to the meat mixture before the simmering step. It will complement the beef base beautifully!
Absolutely! The sloppy joe mixture can be prepared entirely ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop and stir in the cheese just before serving. The flavors tend to deepen beautifully overnight!
Yes, the cooked sloppy joe mixture (without the cheese stirred in) freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop and stir in the shredded cheese just before serving.
Soft, medium-sized sandwich buns are generally best as they can absorb the sauce without falling apart. Potato buns, brioche buns, or classic white hamburger buns are excellent choices. For a heartier option, you can use crusty rolls, though they might make it a bit more challenging to eat the “sloppy” filling.
For a kick of heat, you have a few options! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables as they sauté, or include a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper. A dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred in during the simmering stage will also do the trick. Adjust to your preferred level of spice!
No problem! If you don’t have a concentrated bouillon base, you can substitute the ½ cup of water and 1 ½ teaspoons of beef bouillon base with ½ cup of good quality beef broth or beef stock. Adjust seasoning to taste, as the intensity of flavor can vary.
Delightful Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are incredibly versatile and perfect for a wide range of occasions. Their hearty, satisfying nature makes them an ideal choice for a casual weeknight dinner, but they truly shine when served at gatherings like game days, potlucks, or family parties. This recipe is also easily doubled or tripled, making it a fantastic option for feeding a crowd without extra stress.
For a classic American comfort meal, pair your sloppy joes with some crispy french fries or a side of crunchy potato chips. The savory, saucy sandwich is beautifully complemented by the salty crispness of these staples. Other excellent pairings include warm, comforting baked beans, or a creamy, rich batch of stovetop mac and cheese to double down on the cheesy goodness. A simple green salad or coleslaw can offer a refreshing contrast and cut through the richness.
Looking for creative serving twists?
- Lower-Carb Option: Skip the buns entirely and serve the Philly cheesesteak sloppy joe mixture in crisp lettuce cups or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a lighter, carb-conscious meal.
- Party Appetizer: If you’re serving a variety of sides and snacks at a party, consider using smaller slider buns for mini sloppy joes. This allows guests to enjoy a taste without getting too full.
- Stuffed Peppers or Baked Potatoes: Spoon the mixture into roasted bell peppers or hollowed-out baked potatoes for a heartier, utensil-friendly meal.
- Pasta Topping: Mix the sloppy joe filling with cooked pasta for a quick and easy weeknight casserole, perhaps topped with a little extra cheese and baked until bubbly.
- Garnish: Don’t forget fresh toppings! A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives can add a touch of color and freshness.
More Irresistible Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, you’re in for a treat! Here are more delicious recipes that share similar flavors or are perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings:
- Philly Cheesesteak Sliders: A bite-sized version of the classic, perfect for appetizers or parties.
- Philly Cheesesteak Dip: All the flavors you love in a creamy, dippable form, great for sharing.
- One Pot Sloppy Joe Pasta: A super easy and quick meal that combines sloppy joes with pasta, all in one pot!
- Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole: A hearty and comforting casserole topped with a golden layer of cornbread.
I absolutely adore cooking and baking, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than sharing my kitchen adventures and delicious creations with all of you! Remembering to check back for new recipes can sometimes be a challenge, which is why I’ve made it super easy for you. I offer a convenient newsletter that delivers a brand new recipe straight to your inbox every time one posts. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily dose of culinary inspiration!
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
IMPORTANT – Don’t miss the Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Tips sections within the blog post above; they are packed with helpful advice and will answer most of your common questions!
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Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ cup chopped red onion
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 pound ground sirloin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons Better than Bouillon beef base
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup water
- 5 ounces shredded provolone cheese we used smoked provolone
- 8 sandwich buns
Things You’ll Need
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Large heavy bottomed skillet
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Rubber spatula
Before You Begin & Expert Tips
- This recipe yields approximately 4 cups of delicious sloppy joe mixture. Depending on your preference for how much filling per sandwich, you can get 4-8 hearty sandwiches from this batch. For 8 regular-sized servings, use about ½ cup of meat mixture per bun. For a larger, more substantial sandwich, aim for about 1 cup of mixture. The provided nutrition information is based on 8 sandwiches.
- We highly recommend shredding your own cheese from the block for the best results. Pre-bagged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents which can prevent it from melting smoothly, resulting in a slightly gritty texture. Freshly shredded cheese will give you that perfectly gooey, melted consistency.
- While not included in our primary ingredients, many people love the added depth that Worcestershire sauce brings to their sloppy joes. Feel free to add 1-2 teaspoons before the simmering step if you desire an extra layer of savory, tangy flavor.
- For this recipe, we utilize a concentrated bouillon base (such as Better than Bouillon) instead of traditional broth or stock. It offers superior convenience, takes up less storage space, and delivers a more intense, rich flavor. If you prefer to use broth or stock, simply replace the amount of water in the recipe with an equal amount of your chosen broth/stock and omit the bouillon base. Alternatively, 1-2 bouillon cubes can be dissolved in hot water as a substitute for the beef base.
- Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until thoroughly warmed. The mixture also freezes well (without the cheese stirred in) for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating and adding cheese.
Instructions
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Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering.
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Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.1 Tablespoon minced garlic
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Add the chopped red onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a plate and set aside to keep warm.1/2 cup chopped red onion, 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper, 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
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Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the ground sirloin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brown the meat over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat, if present (ground sirloin usually requires minimal draining).
CHEF’S NOTE: Using lean ground sirloin (90/10 or higher) significantly reduces the need to drain excess fat, making this step quicker and cleaner.
1 pound ground sirloin, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder -
Stir the beef bouillon base and tomato paste into the cooked ground meat until well combined. Return the previously cooked vegetables to the skillet, mixing them thoroughly with the meat mixture.1 1/2 teaspoons Better than Bouillon beef base, 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
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Add the water to the skillet and stir everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated into a saucy mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the seasonings to blend and the sauce to thicken to a perfect “sloppy” consistency. Stir occasionally.1/2 cup water
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Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded provolone cheese until it is completely melted and beautifully gooey, forming a delicious, cheesy coating over the mixture. Serve the warm Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes generously piled onto your favorite sandwich buns. Enjoy the delicious, messy goodness!5 ounces shredded provolone cheese, 8 sandwich buns
Expert Tips & FAQs
- This makes about 4 cups of sloppy Joe mixture. Depending on how much meat you like on your sandwich you can get 4-8 sandwiches from this batch. For 8 regular sized sandwiches, use 1/2 cup meat mixture. For larger sandwiches, 1 cup of mixture is a good hearty portion. Note that the nutrition information is based on 8 sandwiches.
- Store any cooled leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the mixture on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- To prevent your buns from getting soggy, you can lightly toast them before adding the sloppy joe mixture.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture during the simmering phase.
- Always shred your own cheese from the block; pre-shredded cheese can have a gritty texture when melted due to anti-caking agents.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.