Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are messy in the best way possible and loaded with Philly cheesesteak flavor! Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings, this recipe brings the iconic taste of a Philly cheesesteak into a fun and easy-to-eat sandwich form. With a blend of savory ground sirloin, colorful peppers, and melted provolone cheese, these sloppy joes are sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combo: The savory blend of ground sirloin, cheese, and colorful peppers creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 50 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into these messy sandwiches—perfect for lunch or dinner!
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with different cheeses or add extra veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Serve with Style: These sandwiches are great for parties or casual get-togethers, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make your experience smoother. Having the right equipment can significantly enhance your cooking efficiency.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of your meat and vegetables. It’s essential for browning ground sirloin perfectly.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: This tool allows you to easily mix ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface, ensuring a good blend of flavors.

Ingredients

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

For the 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 the Skillet

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

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Veggies

Saute the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then:
Add the chopped 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 the Ground Sirloin

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Then:
1. Add ground sirloin along with chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Brown the meat while breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
3. Drain off any excess fat if necessary (Note: Ground sirloin is leaner).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add beef bouillon base and tomato paste into the cooked meat mixture. Stir well to combine.
Then:
Add back the reserved vegetables from earlier.

Step 5: Simmer

Stir in water and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling:
– Lower heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to let seasonings blend together nicely.

Step 6: Melt Cheese

Stir in shredded provolone cheese until fully melted.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon the cheesy mixture onto sandwich buns and enjoy your delicious Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit your gathering or family dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Casual Gatherings

• With Potato Chips – The crunch of potato chips adds a delightful contrast to the soft, cheesy filling.
• On a Platter – Serve sloppy joes on a large platter with toppings for guests to customize.

Family Dinners

• With Fresh Salad – A light salad can balance the richness of the sloppy joes and add freshness.
• In Individual Bowls – For a fun twist, serve each person a bowl of sloppy joe filling with a bun on the side.

Game Day Treats

• Mini Sliders – Use smaller buns and make sliders for easy snacking during game day.
• With Dipping Sauce – Serve with ranch or marinara sauce for added flavor.

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How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat – Using ground sirloin ensures leaner meat that retains flavor without too much grease.
• Sauté Vegetables Just Right – Cook vegetables until tender-crisp; this keeps them from becoming mushy in the mixture.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the dish to simmer for 15-20 minutes helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Use Good Cheese – Opt for provolone cheese, preferably smoked, for a richer taste that complements the beef well.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Pairing sides with your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the sloppy joes. Bake or fry until crispy.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness; serve it on the side or as a topping.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn provides a sweet element that pairs well with savory dishes.
4. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad is a classic side that complements any hearty sandwich.
5. Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans works well against the rich flavors of the sloppy joe.
6. Mixed Green Salad – A simple green salad adds lightness and balances out the meal’s heaviness.
7. Pickles – Tangy pickles can cut through richness, making them an excellent accompaniment for sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-stellar results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using the wrong meat: Ground sirloin is best for this recipe. If you use fattier ground beef, you may end up with a greasy mixture. Stick with leaner options for better flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Sauteing the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender-crisp veggies to retain their flavor and crunch in your sloppy joes.

• Skipping the seasoning: The seasonings are crucial for that authentic cheesesteak flavor. Don’t skip the chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder—these add depth to your dish.

• Not letting it simmer: Skipping the simmering step means missing out on blending flavors. Allowing your mixture to simmer enhances the taste of the filling.

• Choosing the wrong cheese: While provolone is classic, using a different cheese can alter the dish’s flavor. Stick with provolone or try smoked varieties for a twist.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

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

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes.

How do I make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes spicier?

To spice things up, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. This will enhance the flavor while adding heat.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While provolone is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors and textures.

How do I serve Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Serve these sloppy joes on sandwich buns with optional toppings like sautéed mushrooms or extra cheese for an even heartier meal.

What sides go well with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Pair them with potato chips, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the richness of the sloppy joes nicely.

Final Thoughts

These Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different vegetables or cheeses based on your preference. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a game-day treat, these sloppy joes promise satisfaction and comfort in every bite. Give them a try!