These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes take the classic Philly cheesesteak and transform it into a hearty, easy-to-make sloppy joe. Ground beef, peppers, onions, and creamy cheese come together in a savory, cheesy filling that’s nestled inside toasted buns. Perfect for satisfying your cheesesteak cravings without all the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience. The ground beef is seasoned and cooked with sautéed peppers, onions, and garlic, then mixed with cream cheese, ketchup, and soy sauce for a creamy, savory base. The dish is finished with melted mozzarella or provolone cheese, making it indulgent and comforting. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 orange bell pepper, chopped
1 white onion, chopped
3 tablespoons oil
2 lbs ground beef
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
2 ounces cream cheese
3 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons garlic powder
½ cup water
1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
4 hamburger buns

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté Vegetables:

In a large pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped green, red, and orange bell peppers, along with the chopped onion. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef:

In the same pan, add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Brown the beef for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Combine Ingredients:

Return the cooked beef to the pan and add the sautéed peppers and onions. Stir in the cream cheese, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, water, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly, allowing the mixture to heat through and thicken, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add Cheese:

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese over the beef mixture. Stir until the cheese melts and is fully incorporated into the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:

Toast the hamburger buns lightly, then spoon the cheesesteak mixture onto the buns. Optionally, top with more shredded cheese for extra cheesy goodness.

6. Serve:

Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes immediately. Enjoy this hearty, comforting sandwich!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 overstuffed sloppy joes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy twist.
Different Cheese: Use cheddar cheese or a mix of cheeses to customize the flavor. Pepper Jack would also work well for a bit of heat.
Make it Low-Carb: Serve the cheesesteak mixture on lettuce leaves or in a low-carb wrap instead of buns for a low-carb option.
Add Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the vegetable mix for an extra earthy flavor that complements the beef and cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the beef mixture in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if the mixture is too thick. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can easily be substituted for the beef. You may need to adjust the seasoning slightly to suit the milder flavor of the poultry.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it before serving and assemble the sloppy joes with the buns.

3. Can I freeze the filling?

Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

4. Can I use a different type of pepper?

Yes, you can use any bell pepper color or even a mix of colors based on your preference. You could also add other veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrients.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, let it cook a little longer until it thickens to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can add a bit more cream cheese to make it thicker and creamier.

6. Can I make these sandwiches spicier?

Yes, for a spicier version, you can add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicy cheese like Pepper Jack.

7. How can I make these sandwiches vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, you can use a plant-based ground meat substitute like lentils, mushrooms, or a store-bought veggie crumbles blend instead of the ground beef.

8. Can I serve these sloppy joes with sides?

Yes, these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes go well with crispy fries, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with pickles on the side for extra crunch.

9. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

While this recipe is designed for quick cooking, you can brown the beef and vegetables ahead of time, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

10. Can I make these Sloppy Joes spicier without changing the flavor too much?

To make the Sloppy Joes spicier without altering the flavor too much, you can add a little extra black pepper, or drizzle in some hot sauce or spicy ketchup.

Conclusion

These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring all the deliciousness of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a quick, easy-to-make sloppy joe. With savory beef, sautéed peppers, onions, and creamy cheese, all tucked inside a toasted bun, it’s the perfect meal for anyone craving something cheesy, hearty, and comforting. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, these Sloppy Joes are sure to satisfy!