When you combine the bold flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the hearty comfort of a sloppy joe, you get a game-changing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd on game day or pulling together a quick weeknight dinner, The Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring the best of both worlds to your table—juicy, cheesy, and packed with sautéed peppers and onions.
This recipe takes the ease of a one-pan skillet dinner and elevates it with melty provolone, savory ground beef, and all the nostalgic notes of a deli-style cheesesteak. It’s fast, fuss-free, and doesn’t skimp on flavor. Serve it up on toasted buns or hoagie rolls, and you’ve got a family favorite that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
In this post, I’ll show you how to make these crave-worthy sandwiches step by step, plus offer tips, variations, and sides to pair with your new favorite sloppy joe twist. Let’s turn up the heat and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love The Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes for Dinner
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a sandwich that’s both cheesy and meaty, yet quick enough for a weeknight. The best Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes offer exactly that—a bold, savory mash-up of two beloved comfort foods in one easy-to-make dish.
What sets this version apart is its balance of textures and flavors. You get the rich, savory depth of seasoned ground beef, the slight crunch of sautéed onions and peppers, and the creamy melt of provolone all wrapped up in a soft, toasted bun. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent, yet it comes together in just one pan and under half an hour.
Perfect for everything from game day gatherings to casual family dinners, these sloppy joes aren’t just a fun twist—they’re a new classic in their own right. They’re flexible too: swap the protein, use different cheeses, or spice it up to suit your taste. However you make them, these sandwiches are bound to become a regular on your menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
To bring the best Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes to life, you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients—just a few staples that come together to deliver bold, cheesy goodness in every bite. This recipe balances flavor, texture, and simplicity using real, everyday items from your kitchen.
Meat & Base:
- 1 lb ground beef – Opt for 85/15 for a rich, juicy texture
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds classic cheesesteak flavor
- 1 green bell pepper, diced – For that authentic Philly crunch and color
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For aromatic depth
Sauce & Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Brings out the umami
- ¼ cup beef broth – Helps create a slightly saucy, cohesive mixture
- 1 tablespoon ketchup or tomato paste (optional) – Adds a slight tang and body
- Salt & pepper to taste – Keep it balanced
Cheese & Buns:
- 4–6 slices provolone cheese – Melted into the meat for that signature creamy finish
- Hoagie rolls, hamburger buns, or brioche buns – Toasted for added texture and flavor
Optional Add-ins:
- Mushrooms – Sautéed for an earthier twist
- Banana peppers or jalapeños – If you like a little heat
- Shredded mozzarella or white American cheese – Great if you prefer stretchier melt
This lineup is simple but powerful, delivering a sandwich that’s savory, cheesy, and loaded with the classic ingredients you’d expect from both a Philly cheesesteak and a comforting sloppy joe.
How to Make the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes – Step by Step
Bringing together everything you love about a classic cheesesteak and the messy charm of a sloppy joe, this recipe is straightforward and fast—perfect for busy evenings or game day spreads. Here’s exactly how to make the best Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil, then toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic during the last minute of cooking so it doesn’t burn.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Push the veggies to the side and add your ground beef directly to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease if needed to avoid a soggy mixture.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. If you’re using ketchup or tomato paste for extra richness, add that now. Let everything simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and soak into the meat.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Turn the heat to low and lay the provolone slices over the beef mixture. Let them melt without stirring at first—then fold the cheese gently into the meat until everything is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Toast and Assemble
While the meat simmers, lightly toast your buns or rolls for extra texture. Spoon the hot, cheesy filling onto each toasted base and serve immediately.
Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or setting up for Sunday’s big game, these Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes come together in no time and deliver on all fronts—flavor, speed, and that irresistible cheesy pull.
Tips and Variations to Perfect the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
What makes the best Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes more than just a quick meal is how easily they can be customized to suit your taste or the occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a picky eater, making a lower-carb version, or just want to experiment with flavors, these tips and variations will help you elevate your sandwich game without straying too far from that irresistible cheesesteak vibe.
Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and a creamier texture.
- Toast your rolls to avoid soggy bottoms and add a bit of crunch.
- Don’t overcook the beef — keep it juicy so the filling stays rich and satisfying.
- Add the cheese last and melt it gently into the meat for that signature sloppy joe texture without turning greasy.
Easy Variations to Try
- Switch the protein: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.
- Low-carb option: Serve the filling in lettuce wraps or over a baked potato.
- Add mushrooms: For extra umami and that classic cheesesteak flair.
- Go spicy: Toss in jalapeños, banana peppers, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheese swap: Provolone is traditional, but white American, mozzarella, or even pepper jack add their own twist.
With just a few tweaks, you can turn Philly-style sloppy joes into your signature sandwich—perfect for casual nights or crowd-pleasing game day eats. The beauty of this recipe is that it delivers big flavor with minimal effort, and these smart upgrades only make it better.
How to Serve the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Once you’ve whipped up the best Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, all that’s left is to pair them with sides that enhance their rich, cheesy, and savory flavor. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or feeding a crowd for game day, these serving ideas will help round out the meal without taking the spotlight away from your star sandwich.
Classic Pairings
- Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries bring the perfect crunch alongside the soft, saucy sandwich.
- A side of coleslaw adds coolness and a hint of tang that balances out the cheesy meat filling.
- Pickles or banana peppers give a pop of acidity and contrast, cutting through the richness.
Lighter Sides
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette keeps things fresh and lets the sandwich shine.
- Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans for a nutritious touch.
- Opt for lettuce wraps instead of buns if you’re watching your carbs—still flavorful and satisfying.
For Game Day or a Party Spread
- Make them slider-style with mini buns for easy grab-and-go servings.
- Offer a DIY topping bar with sautéed mushrooms, hot peppers, extra cheese, and sauces.
- Pair with chips and dip, baked mac and cheese, or onion rings for the ultimate comfort food vibe.
No matter how you serve them, Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re adaptable, crowd-pleasing, and just messy enough to be fun—which is exactly what great comfort food should be.
How to Store and Reheat the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
One of the best parts about making the best Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes is that they’re just as delicious the next day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers from a game day feast, proper storage and reheating will keep your sandwiches tasting fresh and satisfying.
Storing Leftovers
- Meat mixture only: Transfer the cooked filling to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Avoid storing assembled sandwiches, as the bread will become soggy—always store the buns separately.
- Freezer option: Cool the mixture completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it feels too thick.
- Microwave: Warm individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
- From frozen: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
💡 Pro Tip: Toast fresh buns just before serving to bring back that perfect texture and keep your sandwich from falling apart.
By storing the meat mixture properly and reheating it the right way, you’ll keep those flavors bold, the cheese melty, and the texture just right—so your Philly-style sloppy joes are just as crave-worthy on day two.
The Best Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet For cooking meat, vegetables, and sauce
- 1 Spatula For stirring and breaking up beef
- 1 Cutting Board For prepping vegetables
- 1 Knife For chopping onions, peppers, and garlic
- 1 Measuring spoons For sauces and seasonings
- 1 Toasting pan/grill For toasting buns (optional)
Ingredients
Main Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp ketchup or tomato paste optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese & Buns
- 4 –6 slices provolone cheese
- 4 –6 hoagie rolls or hamburger buns toasted
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté the onions and bell pepper until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic during the last 30 seconds.
- Push vegetables to the side of the skillet and add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and optional ketchup or tomato paste. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Lay provolone slices over the beef and allow to melt. Stir gently to combine.
- Toast buns in a pan or under the broiler until golden.
- Spoon meat mixture onto the toasted buns and serve immediately.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add mushrooms or banana peppers for extra flavor.
- Keep leftover filling refrigerated for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
FAQ
Yes, absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative. You’ll still get that hearty texture and flavor, especially if you keep the same seasoning and veggie blend.
Provolone is the classic choice because it melts well and has a mild, creamy flavor. If you prefer something with a stronger taste, try white American, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist.
Definitely. The meat mixture can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stove and spoon it over freshly toasted rolls.
Hoagie rolls are ideal, but you can also use brioche buns, hamburger rolls, or even slider buns for smaller servings. Toasting the bread is recommended to hold up against the juicy filling.
Yes, the meat filling freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
For a plant-based version, substitute the ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a meatless crumble. Keep the same seasonings and veggie mix for a familiar flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
When you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to satisfy, the best Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes are a no-fail option. This simple recipe brings together the savory soul of a classic cheesesteak and the comfort food charm of a traditional sloppy joe—all in under 30 minutes and with just one skillet.
It’s the kind of dish that works just as well on a casual Tuesday night as it does on a football Sunday with friends. The juicy ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and perfectly melted provolone make each bite rich, flavorful, and utterly craveable. And the best part? You can easily customize it to fit your taste, dietary needs, or the ingredients you have on hand.
So whether you’re feeding a family, planning a crowd-pleasing party menu, or simply want to change up your sandwich game, this Philly-style twist on a classic sloppy joe is always a winner. Don’t forget to save or print the recipe—and if you try it, leave a comment or tag your photos. I’d love to see how your version turns out!