Name: Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred); 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for slurry); 4 slices provolone cheese (or 1 cup shredded); 4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns; Salt and pepper to taste

I grew up loving both Philly cheesesteaks and classic sloppy joes—but never in my wildest kitchen dreams did I imagine combining the two would create such a crave-worthy masterpiece. The savory, melty goodness of cheesesteak-style beef with peppers and onions, all packed into a warm sandwich bun, makes every bite feel like a cozy flavor bomb. It’s messy, satisfying, and honestly, one of the easiest weeknight meals I keep on rotation.

This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe came together one night when I had leftover ground beef and no energy for a long cook. What came out of it was a dish that’s now a permanent fixture in my dinner lineup. It’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and totally customizable. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just feeding your hungry self, this sandwich always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Combines two comfort food classics in one
Ready in under 30 minutes
Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients
Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
Deliciously cheesy, saucy, and full of flavor
Perfect for game day, weeknight dinner, or quick lunches
Easily adaptable with different cheeses or veggies
A fun twist that both kids and adults will devour

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using 85/15 ground beef. It has the right amount of fat to keep everything juicy without being greasy. Leaner beef like 90/10 will work if you’re watching fat content, but you might lose a little of that classic richness. If you want to go even more indulgent, some people love mixing in ground chuck or sirloin for that bold, beefy flavor.

Whichever you choose, make sure to drain excess grease after browning so your sloppy joes don’t turn into a soggy mess.

Options for Substitutions

Not only is this recipe easy, it’s super flexible. You can make a bunch of swaps to suit what you’ve got on hand:

Meat: Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner twist. Even plant-based crumbles can work beautifully for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Provolone is the classic Philly choice, but American, mozzarella, or even a Cheez Whiz-style sauce will do the trick.
Buns: Hoagie rolls give it that authentic feel, but hamburger buns, brioche, or even toasted bread work in a pinch.
Veggies: Green bell peppers and onions are traditional, but red or yellow peppers, mushrooms, or even jalapeños can add fun flavor variations.
Sauce Additions: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoon of tomato paste adds depth—feel free to experiment!

This recipe’s beauty lies in how easily it adapts. Make it yours.

Ingredients for This Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Recipe

Ground Beef
The heart of the dish—rich, savory, and satisfying. It soaks up all the flavor from the seasonings and pairs beautifully with the cheese and veggies.
Green Bell Pepper
Adds a pop of color and a subtle crunch. It brings that signature Philly cheesesteak vibe to the table.
Yellow Onion
Caramelizes as it cooks, layering in sweetness and depth that rounds out the savory beef.
Garlic
A must-have for bold, aromatic flavor. Just a clove or two makes a huge difference in taste.
Beef Broth
Keeps the mixture juicy and adds a savory base for everything to simmer in.
Worcestershire Sauce
A flavor booster that deepens the umami and gives that hint of tangy, meaty complexity.
Ketchup
Adds a touch of sweetness and tomato richness that blends the cheesesteak and sloppy joe flavors perfectly.
Cornstarch Slurry (Cornstarch + Water)
Helps thicken the mixture so it holds together nicely in the bun without being runny.
Provolone Cheese (sliced or shredded)
Melts right into the beef mixture for that gooey, cheesy finish we all crave.
Sandwich Rolls or Hoagie Buns
The final vehicle for this delicious mess—soft, warm, and ready to be stuffed.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add diced onions and green bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Stir everything together, letting the mixture come to a gentle simmer. This is when the flavors really start to meld.

Step 4: Thicken It Up

Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for another 3–4 minutes until it thickens to that perfect sloppy joe consistency.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and lay provolone cheese slices right on top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet for a minute or two until the cheese is melted. Stir gently to combine the melted cheese into the meat, or leave it layered—it’s up to you!

Step 6: Toast and Assemble

Lightly toast your sandwich rolls or hoagie buns for a bit of crunch (optional but recommended). Spoon a generous amount of the cheesy beef mixture into each roll and serve hot.

How Long to Cook the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

This is a fast and satisfying recipe that comes together in just about 25 minutes total. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Browning the beef: 5–6 minutes
Sautéing the veggies: 4–5 minutes
Simmering and thickening: 7–8 minutes
Melting cheese & assembling: 3–5 minutes

You’re looking at under half an hour from stovetop to table—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeding a hungry crowd fast.

Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Drain the grease after browning the beef to avoid soggy buns.
Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts more smoothly than pre-packaged slices.
Toast your buns! This small step adds texture and keeps them from falling apart under all that juicy goodness.
Don’t overcook the veggies—you want them tender but still with a bit of bite.
Make a double batch and save half for meal prep or leftovers—it reheats beautifully.
Customize the seasoning with black pepper, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Layer cheese inside the bun for extra meltiness, if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Serve immediately after assembling—these are best enjoyed hot and fresh.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Drain Step: Leaving excess grease in the pan can make your filling too oily and your buns soggy. Always drain after browning the beef.
Overcooking the Vegetables: If the peppers and onions get too soft, you lose that nice texture contrast. Keep an eye on them!
Not Toasting the Buns: It’s a small extra step that makes a big difference in holding everything together and adding that satisfying bite.
Using the Wrong Cheese: Some cheeses don’t melt well or can taste too sharp—stick with provolone, mozzarella, or American for that creamy melt.
Forgetting to Thicken: Without the cornstarch slurry, your filling might end up too runny and hard to manage in the sandwich.
Overcrowding the Pan: Give the ingredients room to cook evenly by using a large enough skillet.
Not Letting It Simmer: Skipping this step means the flavors won’t blend and deepen properly.
Using Cold Cheese: Let the cheese sit out a few minutes before adding so it melts more evenly into the hot mixture.

What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Classic French Fries

Crispy, golden, and perfect for soaking up any leftover sloppy joe filling.

Simple Green Salad

A light, fresh side to balance out the richness of the sandwich.

Sweet Potato Fries

Slightly sweet and crispy, they pair beautifully with the savory meat.

Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

Bold flavor and hearty texture make these wedges a great companion.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

Their sharp tang cuts through the richness and adds a crunch.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh, juicy, and light—a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy beef.

Iced Tea or Lemonade

The ultimate cooling drink to go with this hot, savory meal.

Corn on the Cob or Corn Salad

Sweet, buttery corn complements the savory beef and adds a summery touch.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), storing Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes is super easy. First, let the beef mixture cool to room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm the filling in a skillet over medium heat until hot, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. If it thickens too much in the fridge, just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.

Freezing? Absolutely. Store the cooled meat mixture in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Keep the buns stored separately so they stay fresh and don’t soak up moisture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Sandwich)

Please note: values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.

Calories: 480–550 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 820mg
Cholesterol: 75mg

This sandwich strikes a satisfying balance of protein, fat, and carbs—hearty enough for dinner but quick enough for lunch. You can always lighten it up by using leaner meat or serving it open-faced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese is best for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?

Provolone is the go-to for that classic cheesesteak flavor, but American cheese melts beautifully too. If you’re feeling nostalgic, even Cheez Whiz works for an ultra-creamy twist.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the meat mixture a day or two in advance. Store it in the fridge and just reheat before serving. Toast the buns fresh for the best texture.

Are these sandwiches spicy?

Not by default. They’re flavorful but mild. If you like a kick, add some chopped jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or even chicken makes a leaner version that’s still delicious. Just make sure to season well since turkey is milder in flavor.

What’s the best way to toast the buns?

A quick brush of butter and a minute or two in a hot skillet or under the broiler does the trick. It keeps them sturdy and adds flavor.

How do I keep the filling from being too runny?

Make sure to use the cornstarch slurry to thicken it, and let it simmer for a few minutes. That thick, saucy texture is key to perfect sloppy joes.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms. It’s hearty, tasty, and still delivers big flavor.

Do leftovers still taste good?

Honestly, they taste amazing. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. Just reheat gently and toast fresh buns for best results.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring the best of two comfort food favorites into one mouthwatering, easy-to-make sandwich. It’s a weeknight win that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed—and with how simple and flexible it is, you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just spicing up your dinner routine, this recipe is guaranteed to please.

Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Let’s print it out and get cooking!