As I whipped up a batch of these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, I could already sense the excitement bubbling in the kitchen. This irresistible twist on a classic combines the savory goodness of ground beef and melted cheese, served on a warm brioche bun that will have your family cheering at the dinner table. Best of all, this recipe is quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without spending hours cooking. Plus, leftovers can be easily frozen for a rainy day. So, are you ready to dive into this cheesy, hearty dish that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s savor every bite together!

Why Will You Love These Sloppy Joes?

Quick, Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed for busy schedules, making dinner a breeze without sacrificing flavor.

Comfort Food Redefined: Dive into a delightful fusion of classic cheesesteak flavors with the casual appeal of sloppy joes.

Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a hearty, cheesy meal, making these sloppy joes a sure hit with the whole family.

Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer turkey or spicy jalapeños, this dish easily adapts to your taste!

Freezer-Friendly: Made too much? No worries! You can freeze leftovers for a quick meal on a hectic day.

If you’re looking for another fun twist on a classic, check out these Chicken Sloppy Joes. Your family will thank you!

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

Ground Beef – A rich flavor base; use 80% or 85% lean for the best results.
Butter – Adds a luxurious richness; substitute with olive oil if desired.
Onion – Sweetens the dish; try using half diced and half minced for texture variety.
Bell Pepper – Adds a lovely crunch; you can use red or yellow peppers as substitutions.
Beef Broth – Keeps the mixture moist; opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
Ketchup – Provides that sweet and tangy kick; barbecue sauce is a fun alternative for extra depth.
Worcestershire Sauce – Essential for enhancing the umami flavors; don’t skip this one!
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasonings; adjust according to your taste.
Corn Starch – Thicken the mixture to your liking; flour can be used as a substitute with adjustments.

For the Cheesy Topping

Cheddar or Mozzarella Cheese – Adds creamy goodness; pick your favorite melting cheese!

For Serving

Brioche Buns – Soft and buttery; they hold the filling perfectly—sturdy hamburger buns can work as a substitute.

Dive into this comforting dish that truly brings Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat, and add the ground beef. Sauté until the meat is deeply browned, approximately 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks. Look for a nice crust on the beef for maximum flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, leaving about a tablespoon of fat in the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and bell peppers, letting them sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir occasionally and then allow them to cook for another 1-2 minutes until they soften and develop a golden hue, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the vegetables are softened, drain any excess grease from the skillet, and return the browned ground beef to the pan. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and cornstarch until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet along with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well, ensuring a thorough mix.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Let the mixture simmer on medium heat for about 3-5 minutes. As it cooks, you’ll notice the sauce thickening to a hearty consistency, perfect for your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming too watery, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired thickness.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cheddar or mozzarella cheese. Allow the residual heat to melt the cheese beautifully into the mixture, creating a creamy, cheesy blend that perfectly complements the savory beef and vegetables.

Step 6: Toast the Buns
While the cheesy filling is melding, heat another skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter. Lightly toast the brioche buns for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and slightly crisp. This step enhances the buns’ texture, making them ideal for holding all the deliciousness of the Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Once the buns are toasted and the filling is cheesy and hot, generously spoon the beef mixture onto the warm brioche buns. Spread it out for an even distribution of the savory goodness. Serve immediately, enjoying every bite of these comforting Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes that are sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Variations

Feel free to embrace your creativity with these variations that will take your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes to the next level!

Ground Turkey: Swap the ground beef for turkey for a leaner option that’s equally delicious and satisfying.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for those who crave a little heat in their comforting meals.
Instant Pot Magic: Try making this in an Instant Pot! Sauté the vegetables, add all the ingredients, and pressure cook for 10 minutes—so easy!
Cheesy Surprise: Mix in some cream cheese or pepper jack cheese for an unexpected twist on creaminess and a spicy edge.
Slider Style: Use mini brioche buns to create delightful sliders that are perfect for parties or a fun family night.
Veggie Power: Introduce chopped mushrooms or spinach to the beef mixture for a nutrient boost without sacrificing flavor.
BBQ Flavor: Substitute ketchup with barbecue sauce for a tangy twist that beautifully complements the savory beef.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later. Pop it in the microwave and serve on warm buns for a speedy delicious dinner!

If you’re looking for another cozy, family-friendly dish, give these delightful Chicken Sloppy Joes a try—your family will adore it!

Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Crust is Key: Allow the ground beef to brown well for maximum flavor; a crust forms delicious caramelized notes that enhance your dish.
Quality Buns Matter: Opt for good-quality brioche buns; lower-quality ones may collapse under the weight of the cheesy filling.
Simmer Wisely: Keep a close eye on the beef broth mixture; it should thicken but not become too watery—let it simmer until just right.
Cheese Choice: Use cheeses that melt well, like cheddar or mozzarella; avoid pre-shredded cheeses for better melting texture in your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes.
Vegetable Variations: Don’t shy away from adding other veggies like mushrooms or even spinach to boost nutrition and flavor in this hearty meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef mixture up to 3 days in advance, storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Simply cook the mixture according to the recipe, let it cool, then refrigerate. On the day of serving, reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then stir in the cheese until melted. The brioche buns can be toasted just before serving for that fresh, crispy texture. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights, making dinner time a breeze!

What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Set the stage for the ultimate family meal by pairing these cheesy, meaty delights with comforting sides and drinks that elevate the experience.

Crispy French Fries: The golden, crunchy texture complements the soft and gooey sloppy joes, creating a delightful contrast.
Garlic Bread Sticks: Their buttery, garlicky appeal pairs perfectly with the cheesy richness of the sloppy joes, making each bite a savory treat.
Tangy Coleslaw: This crispy, fresh side adds a delightful crunch and tangy flavor that balances the richness of the beef filling.
Homemade Pickles: Serve crispy, tangy pickles for a zesty contrast that cuts through the savoriness of the sloppy joes, providing a refreshing crunch.
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: The creaminess of mac and cheese creates a comforting harmony, boosting the cheesy goodness of the sloppy joes and making it a filling feast.
Sweet Potato Wedges: These sweet, roasted wedges provide a subtly sweet contrast and a nutritious twist, enhancing the dish while offering a hint of caramelization.
Beer or Hard Cider: A cold, crisp beer or a refreshing hard cider complements the rich flavors of the sloppy joes, creating a perfect pairing for an adult twist on your meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that perfectly balance the savory meal, providing a nostalgic, homemade finish.

How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Fridge: Store the leftover Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing for optimal texture.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
Bun Storage: If you have extra brioche buns, keep them in a resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months to enjoy later.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using 80% or 85% lean ground beef. This will give you a rich taste without being too greasy. It’s ideal for creating that savory filling while staying juicy. If you prefer a lighter option, feel free to substitute it with ground turkey or chicken!

How should I store leftovers of the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This ensures every bite remains tasty and comforting.

Can I freeze the meat mixture?
Very! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 6 months. Just remember to label it with the date for easy tracking!

What should I do if the mixture is too watery?
No problem! If your mixture becomes too watery, continue simmering on medium heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it’s still not thickening, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the mixture. Allow it to simmer until the desired thickness is reached.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well. For gluten sensitivity, substitute the brioche buns with gluten-free options. And if pets are enjoying the kitchen atmosphere, steer clear of any ingredients like onions or garlic, as they can be harmful to them.

How can I adapt this recipe to be more spicy?
If you’re looking for a kick, I often add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture while it simmers. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat preference. You can also try mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili powder for a flavorful heat boost!