Masters of kitchen
If you’re torn between craving a classic Philly cheesesteak and the comfort of a messy, saucy sloppy joe—why not enjoy both in one bite? Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a brilliant fusion that brings together the best of both worlds. Think seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melty cheese all piled high on a toasted bun. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes.
This recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or even your next game day spread. You get all the nostalgic cheesesteak flavors—without needing shaved steak or a griddle. It’s simple, comforting, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Whether you serve it with a pile of fries or a crisp pickle on the side, these cheesy, savory sandwiches are going to disappear fast. Trust us—you’ll want to add this to your regular dinner rotation!
What Are Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes?
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are exactly what they sound like: a mashup of two American sandwich icons. You take the classic flavor combo from a Philly cheesesteak—beef, onions, peppers, and melted cheese—and combine it with the hearty, saucy texture of a sloppy joe. The result? A cheesy, beefy, ultra-satisfying sandwich that’s rich in flavor and incredibly easy to make.
The idea likely came from home cooks looking for a quicker, more budget-friendly alternative to traditional cheesesteaks. Instead of thinly sliced ribeye, this version uses ground beef, which cooks faster and is easier to find. The sandwich still includes sautéed bell peppers and onions, and it gets a creamy twist from a cheesy sauce that binds it all together.
Unlike the classic Philly cheesesteak—which usually comes on a hoagie roll with minimal toppings—this version is messier, saucier, and a little more playful. You can serve it on hamburger buns, brioche rolls, or even slider buns for a party appetizer. It’s the perfect hybrid: familiar, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredient Breakdown for Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Let’s break down what makes this dish so delicious. The core ingredients are simple and affordable:
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Ground beef – Rich, meaty base that’s quick to cook
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Bell peppers and onions – Classic cheesesteak combo, adding sweetness and texture
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Beef broth – Adds depth and moisture
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Worcestershire sauce – A splash adds umami and complexity
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Cheese – Provolone is traditional, but feel free to play with options
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Cornstarch or flour – Thickens the sauce just right
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Toasted buns – Sturdy enough to hold the sloppy filling
The flavor is a balance of savory, cheesy, and peppery. You’ll taste the richness of beef, the sweetness of sautéed onions, and a creamy cheese pull in every bite. It’s indulgent but not overwhelming—perfect for when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Common swaps and add-ins:
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Provolone vs. mozzarella – Both melt beautifully. Provolone adds a sharp, nutty edge while mozzarella gives that classic gooey stretch.
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Ground turkey or chicken – Lighter alternatives for a leaner option
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Mushrooms – For added umami and a veggie boost
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Spicy twist – Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese if you like heat
Bold tip: Use low-sodium beef broth so you can control the saltiness better—especially if you’re adding cheese and Worcestershire sauce.
Why These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes Work So Well
This is one of those recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. First off, it uses common ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen—nothing fancy, and no special trips to the store. The entire dish comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
It’s also family-friendly, which is a huge win. Kids love the cheesy meat filling, and adults appreciate the rich, nostalgic taste. You can easily scale it up for a crowd or freeze leftovers for later—making it budget- and time-efficient.
But the real reason it works? The texture. Sloppy joes can easily become too wet or bland, but this version hits just the right consistency: saucy without being soggy, meaty without being dry. The beef gets beautifully coated in a cheesy gravy that clings to every bite.
And don’t underestimate the power of a toasted bun—it makes all the difference. It adds a bit of crunch, holds everything together, and balances out the creamy, cheesy filling.
If you’re looking for a new go-to dinner that’s cozy, fun, and always hits the spot, this one’s it.
Essential Tools & Prep Tips
You don’t need fancy gadgets to make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, but the right tools will make the process even smoother:
Recommended Equipment:
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Large nonstick or cast iron skillet – For evenly browning the beef and sautéing veggies
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Slotted spoon – Helps you drain any excess fat while keeping flavor
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Wooden spatula – For breaking up the meat easily
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Sheet pan or skillet – For toasting the buns
Toasting the Buns
Never skip this step! Toasting your buns gives them a slight crisp edge, which helps them hold up against the juicy filling.
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Oven Method: Place sliced buns on a sheet pan, brush with butter or oil, and toast at 400°F for 3–5 minutes.
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Stovetop Method: Toast bun halves in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden.
Pro Tip: Brush your buns with a little garlic butter before toasting for an irresistible flavor boost.
Also, prep your ingredients ahead of time—dice onions and peppers in advance and shred the cheese early. That way, once you start cooking, the whole thing comes together quickly and stress-free.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes (Step-by-Step)
This one-skillet dinner couldn’t be easier! Here’s how to make your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes from start to finish:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil or butter. Toss in diced onions and bell peppers and cook until softened and slightly golden, about 5–7 minutes. This step builds the base flavor—don’t rush it!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef directly to the skillet with the veggies. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into crumbles. Cook until no longer pink.
Bold tip: Drain excess fat after browning to keep the final dish rich—but not greasy.
Step 3: Make the Cheesesteak-Style Sauce
Once the beef is browned and drained, stir in beef broth and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in a small amount of cornstarch (or flour) and simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Lower the heat and add shredded provolone or mozzarella. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and clings to the beef mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Spoon the cheesy meat mixture onto the toasted buns, making sure each one is fully loaded. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Toasting the Buns (Best Methods)
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Oven: Brush buns with butter and toast cut-side up at 400°F for 3–5 minutes.
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Skillet: Toast buns face down in a dry or buttered skillet until golden.
Toasted buns help prevent sogginess and add a perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
Easy Customizations for Philly Sloppy Joes
One of the best things about this recipe? It’s super flexible! Here are some fun and flavorful twists:
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Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even hot sauce to the beef for a kick.
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Use ground chicken or turkey: A leaner option that still delivers on flavor. Just be sure to season well!
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Swap in cheese sauce: Instead of shredded cheese, use a mild homemade or store-bought cheese sauce for extra creaminess.
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Add mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the peppers and onions for a richer, umami-packed filling.
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Low-carb version: Skip the buns altogether and stuff the mixture into bell pepper halves or use large lettuce leaves for wraps.
These variations make it easy to adapt to dietary needs or flavor preferences while keeping that classic cheesesteak vibe.
Storage Tips for Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Got leftovers? Good news—Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes store well and taste just as great the next day.
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Store in the fridge: Keep the meat mixture in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze it: The filling freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
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Reheat on the stovetop: For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
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Avoid freezing assembled sandwiches: The bread tends to get soggy when frozen. Always freeze just the meat mixture.
These tips make it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks or lazy weekends.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes With It
These sloppy cheesesteaks are rich and hearty, so pair them with sides that balance or complement the flavor:
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Crispy fries or tater tots – Classic diner-style pairing
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Coleslaw – A cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, cheesy filling
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Potato chips – Quick, no-fuss side
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Light green salad – For freshness and a bit of balance
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Pickles or pepperoncini – Add some acidity and crunch
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Dinner rolls or slider buns – Make mini versions for parties or potlucks
You can even serve the filling over baked potatoes or rice for a twist on the traditional bun format!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple dish like this can go sideways without a few guardrails. Keep these in mind:
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Too much liquid – It’ll soak your buns. Simmer until thickened.
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Not draining the beef – Leaves the sauce greasy and unappetizing.
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Skipping the bun toasting – Leads to soggy sandwiches that fall apart.
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Using strong-flavored cheese – Like sharp cheddar or blue cheese, which can overpower the other flavors.
Stick with mellow, melty cheeses and pay attention to sauce texture for best results.
FAQs
Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the filling a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat in a skillet before serving.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Provolone is classic for Philly-style flavor, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack also work well for a melty, mild finish.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns and check that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.
Are these kid-friendly?
Definitely! You can even leave out the onions or peppers for picky eaters—or use sweet red peppers for a milder flavor.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches, then keep warm in a slow cooker or warming tray.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Wooden spatula
- Slotted spoon
- Sheet pan or second skillet (for toasting buns)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 85/15 or leaner
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or flour
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 6 hamburger or brioche buns
- 1 tablespoon butter for toasting buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced mushrooms jalapeños
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté diced onions and bell peppers for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
- Add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Lower the heat and add shredded cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Toast buns in a skillet or oven with butter until golden.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto toasted buns. Serve warm!
Notes
- Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or American cheese also work.
- Want it spicy? Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Make it low-carb by serving the filling in bell peppers or lettuce wraps.
- Double the recipe for meal prep or freezing.
Nutrition
Conclusion: The Best of Both Sandwich Worlds
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mashup—bringing together everything you love about a classic cheesesteak and the saucy, satisfying appeal of a sloppy joe. They’re cheesy, savory, easy to make, and guaranteed to disappear fast from any dinner table.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe checks all the boxes: minimal ingredients, fast cleanup, and maximum flavor.
So grab your skillet, toast up those buns, and dig into a hearty, gooey sandwich that hits every craving. Once you try this twist on tradition, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
