Prepare for the ultimate comfort food: Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes. These sandwiches are a mashup of two classics: The Philly cheesesteak and the sloppy joe. We’re talking juicy, seasoned ground beef loaded with sautéed onions and green peppers, all smothered in melted provolone cheese.Â
And the best part is that you can whip up these crowd-pleasing sandwiches without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself to a mouthwatering meal, these Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are guaranteed to hit the spot. So grab your skillet, fire up the broiler and let’s get cooking, because once you taste these bad boys, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe Ingredients  Â
- Ground beef: Rich and savory ground beef provides a hearty base for the sandwiches and delivers a satisfying texture.
- Green pepper: Chopped green pepper adds a slight crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory beef.
- Onion: It brings a mild sweetness and depth of flavor and is a classic pairing with green peppers.
- Garlic powder: Subtly aromatic, garlic powder elevates the savory profile of the dish without the sharpness of fresh garlic.
- Salt: Enhancing the natural flavors of every ingredient, salt ensures that everything tastes more like itself.
- Pepper: Pepper adds a bit of complexity, and the mild heat cuts through the richness of the beef.
- French rolls: These rolls serve as a sturdy base and top for the sandwiches, providing a satisfying crunch when toasted without being too dense.
- Provolone cheese: Melting beautifully over the beef mixture, provolone cheese adds a creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor. Go for a sharper provolone if that’s your preference, the salty sharpness pairs perfectly with the beef.
- Mayonnaise: If desired, this condiment adds a creamy richness and a slight tang that complements the savory and toasty elements of the sandwich. A thin layer of mayo also keeps the roll from getting soggy.
Directions   Â
Step 1: Prepare the beef mixture
Preheat your broiler. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped green pepper and onion until the beef is no longer pink, five to seven minutes, crumbling the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the garlic powder, salt and pepper until the seasonings are well distributed.
Step 2: Broil the sandwich base
Cut the French rolls horizontally in half. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Broil them 3 to 4 inches from the heat source until they are toasted, about 30 seconds. Top each toasted roll bottom with the beef mixture, then place a slice of provolone cheese on top. Return the baking sheet to the broiler and broil until the cheese is partially melted, 45 to 60 seconds.
Step 3: Assemble the sandwiches
Place the top halves of the rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up. Broil them 3 to 4 inches from the heat source until they are toasted, about 30 seconds. If desired, spread mayonnaise on the toasted roll tops. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the toasted tops over the beef and cheese-topped bottoms. Serve immediately.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes VariationsÂ
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for an earthy flavor addition that pairs well with the beef.
- Use chicken: Substitute ground chicken for the ground beef for a lighter option.
- Incorporate hot peppers: Try chopped jalapeños or banana peppers in the place of some or all of the green peppers for a spicy kick.
- Try different cheeses: Swap the provolone for cheddar, American or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy profile.
- Make it vegetarian: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute to create a vegetarian version.
How to Store Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
To store leftover Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, transfer the beef mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. For the best results, don’t assemble the sandwiches first: Store the toasted rolls separately at room temperature to prevent them from becoming soggy. When ready to eat, simply reheat the beef mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave and assemble the sandwiches as usual.
Can you freeze Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?Â
Yes, you can freeze Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes—but just the filling. Don’t freeze the assembled sandwiches. Let the beef mixture cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and piling on a fresh roll.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Tips   Â
What are the best side dishes to serve with Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes?
The best side dishes to serve with Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are the same things you might serve with a burger or hot dogs: French fries or sweet potato fries are crispy and satisfying sides that pair well with hearty sandwiches such as this one. Tangy and crunchy coleslaw makes for a refreshing contrast to the savory beef mixture, while creamy potato salad complements the rich flavors of the sloppy joes. A light and fresh garden salad helps balance out the meal with its crisp vegetables and tangy dressing. Sweet and savory baked beans are a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the sandwiches.
Can I bake a homemade roll for this recipe?
Yes, you can bake homemade rolls for this recipe. Depending on your local bakery, homemade may be your best option. These freshly baked hoagie buns will provide a sturdy and delicious base for your sandwiches.
What are some good toppings to add to Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes?
Though they are already packed with complementary flavors and textures, adding toppings to your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes can take them to another level. Options include sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor or caramelized onions to deepen the umami of the beef. Pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick, while roasted red peppers offer a sweet, smoky taste. Crispy fried onions provide crunch, and fresh lettuce and tomato add refreshing crispness. For extra heat, try hot sauce or prepared horseradish, or add barbecue sauce for a smoky tang. Mix and match these toppings to create your perfect sandwich, but be mindful that you don’t stuff them too full to eat!
