If you’re craving the flavor of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want something a little easier to make for dinner tonight, these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the answer. They’re the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods: the rich, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak, combined with the saucy simplicity of a sloppy joe. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s ready in no time and sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes all the savory, cheesy, beefy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak and transforms it into a quick, one-pan meal. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this dish delivers maximum flavor without the fuss. Plus, it’s easy to customize and makes fantastic leftovers.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Green bell pepper
Onion
Garlic
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Ketchup
Salt and pepper
Cornstarch
Provolone cheese or cheese sauce
Sandwich buns

directions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir into the skillet to thicken the mixture.
Once thickened, reduce heat to low and stir in chopped provolone or cheese sauce until melted and creamy.
Toast your sandwich buns if desired, then spoon the mixture onto the buns and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Swap provolone for American, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese.
Serve over baked potatoes or rice instead of buns for a low-carb twist.
Add hot sauce or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or microwave in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
If the mixture thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

FAQs

What kind of ground beef should I use?

An 80/20 ground beef mix works well for flavor and moisture, but leaner meat can be used to cut down on fat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for easy reheating later.

Are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes freezer-friendly?

Yes, the cooked meat mixture freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Provolone is traditional, but any melty cheese like mozzarella, American, or even a cheese sauce works great.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns and ensure all sauces (like Worcestershire and ketchup) are gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the meat.

What’s the best way to toast the buns?

Butter the insides and place them face-down on a skillet or under a broiler until golden brown.

Can I use steak instead of ground beef?

Yes, finely chopped ribeye or sirloin works if you want a more traditional Philly cheesesteak texture.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toast the buns and don’t overfill with the mixture. Serve immediately after assembling.

Can I serve this to kids?

Absolutely. This recipe is mild and kid-friendly, but you can adjust flavors to suit their tastes.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a mouthwatering mashup that brings together the best of two comfort food classics. With its hearty beef filling, melty cheese, and soft buns, it’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want something both easy and delicious. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes