PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES
Table of Contents
I still remember the first time I tasted a Philly cheesesteak on a bustling street corner in Philadelphia. The savory blend of thinly sliced beef, melty cheese, and perfectly sautéed onions tucked inside a warm, crusty roll was unforgettable. It brought a sense of comfort and warmth, much like the meals my grandmother used to prepare. Now, I find joy in bringing those beloved flavors into my own kitchen and sharing them with you through this delightful twist: Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes. Imagine the nostalgia of a classic cheesesteak mingling with the comforting messiness of a sloppy joe. This dish not only fills the belly but warms the heart, making it an ideal choice for any family dinner. It’s a dish that’s both quick to whip up on a busy weeknight and satisfying enough to please a crowd at your next family gathering.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that feels like a hug on a plate. There’s something magical about watching the cheese melt over the savory, seasoned beef, all nestled inside a soft bun. It’s reminiscent of childhood dinners, where the aroma of cooking filled the air, promising deliciousness and togetherness. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, ensuring that even on the busiest of days, you can craft a meal that feels like home. It’s the kind of recipe that encourages you to gather around the kitchen, sharing stories and laughter while the meal comes together.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring a unique twist to traditional sandwiches, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or a special treat for yourself. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but the desire for a hearty meal is strong. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a lifesaver for those evenings when you crave homemade comfort without the hassle.
Family-Friendly: The comforting flavors are universally loved, making this dish a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist the savory goodness that reminds them of their favorite cheesesteak sandwich.
Budget-Friendly: With simple, affordable ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank, proving that great taste doesn’t have to come at a high cost. It’s a testament to the fact that you can create mouthwatering dishes with ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
Versatile: Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or a larger gathering, these sloppy joes can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd. The recipe’s flexibility also allows you to get creative with the presentation, offering a unique culinary experience each time.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of beef, cheese, and seasonings creates a rich, savory dish that satisfies those cheesesteak cravings without needing a trip to Philadelphia. This fusion of flavors brings a taste of Philly right to your kitchen, making every bite a delightful journey.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up these delightful bites, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade snacks.
Skillet: Essential for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables to perfection. A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop those rich, caramelized flavors that elevate the dish.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for breaking up the meat and stirring everything together. A wooden spoon is gentle on your cookware and provides excellent control as you mix ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure the right balance of flavors. Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect blend of seasonings and sauce in this dish.
Baking Sheet: Handy for broiling the buns and melting the cheese. A well-used baking sheet is your ally in achieving perfectly toasted buns with a golden, crispy edge.
Slotted Spoon: Ideal for serving the meat mixture onto the buns without the extra liquid. This tool helps you achieve the right texture by ensuring the buns don’t get soggy.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup A-1 Steak Sauce
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning
- Sliced provolone cheese
- Hamburger buns, sliders, etc.
Instructions
Cook the Beef and Veggies: In a skillet pan, over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef, onion, green pepper, and salt until beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. This step is crucial as it sets the foundational flavors with the caramelization of the onions and peppers.
Thicken the Sauce: Stir the cornstarch into the ground beef and mix together until the meat is coated in the cornstarch. Add the beef broth, A-1 sauce, and steak seasoning. Stir together and bring to a boil. The cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the sauce clings to the meat beautifully.
Simmer the Mixture: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer, while stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Mixture should thicken up and will thicken up more once it’s off the heat. This simmering allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich, hearty filling.
Prepare the Buns: While meat is simmering, set the oven to broil, and place the buns on a cookie sheet. Butter each bun. Broil for just a few minutes. Watch carefully as they can burn easily. Broiling the buns adds a delightful crunch that complements the savory filling.
Assemble the Sandwiches: When the meat is done use a slotted spoon to scoop it out onto each bottom bun. Place a slice of provolone cheese on the top bun. Broil for a few more minutes until cheese is melted. The melted cheese acts as the perfect binding element, keeping everything together in cheesy harmony.
Serve and Enjoy: Place the top bun with the cheese on top of the bottom bun with the Philly cheesesteak meat. Eat warm! The warmth enhances the flavors, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 15 minutes • Total Time: 25 minutes • Calories: 350 • Servings: 4
Note: For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. This option is perfect for those who like a bit of heat in their meals, adding an extra layer of complexity to the dish.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:
Lean Ground Beef: Provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and zinc. Choosing lean cuts helps reduce saturated fat, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste.
Green Pepper: Adds a dose of vitamin C and fiber, making the dish more nutritious. The slight crunch and sweetness of the peppers balance the savory flavors beautifully.
Onion: Rich in antioxidants, onions bring both flavor and health benefits to the table. They add a sweet undertone when sautéed, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Provolone Cheese: Offers calcium and protein, supporting bone health while adding creamy texture. Its mild flavor complements the robust taste of the beef mixture without overpowering it.
Beef Broth: Enhances flavor while being low in calories, perfect for a satisfying meal. It acts as a flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together, adding depth to the sauce.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are versatile companions to various beverages and dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors of the sloppy joes. They add a colorful and nutritious side that both kids and adults will love.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that balances the richness of the meat. The refreshing crispness of the slaw cuts through the savory, cheesy goodness, offering a perfect palate cleanser.
Pickles: Add a refreshing bite and acidity to contrast the cheesiness. Their tangy crunch makes for a delightful contrast with the soft, warm buns.
Potato Salad: A classic side that makes the meal even more filling and hearty. It’s a great option for outdoor gatherings and potlucks, adding a comforting, creamy element to your spread.
Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the dish. Whether sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea offers a cooling counterpoint to the warm, savory sandwich.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
Should you find yourself with leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, rest assured they are just as delightful the next day. Store the meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen it up. This keeps the meat juicy and flavorful, maintaining its original richness.
For an easy twist, try using the reheated mixture as a topping for baked potatoes or spooned over a fresh salad for a hearty meal. You can also transform it into a cheesy nacho topping or fill a quesadilla for a quick lunch option. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to reinvent the leftovers in creative and delicious ways.
And there you have it — a warm, inviting dish that brings a little bit of Philly charm right to your home kitchen. As you gather around the table with loved ones, I hope these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes bring the same joy and comfort to your family as they do to mine. Remember, the best meals are the ones shared with those you cherish. Happy cooking!
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Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet pan, over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef, onion, green pepper, and salt until beef is no longer pink. Drain.
- Stir the cornstarch into the ground beef and mix together until the meat is coated in the cornstarch. Add the beef broth, A-1 sauce, and steak seasoning. Stir together and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer, while stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Mixture should thicken up and will thicken up more once it’s off the heat.
- While meat is simmering, set the oven to broil, and place the buns on a cookie sheet. Butter each bun. Broil for just a few minutes. Watch carefully as they can burn easily.
- When the meat is done, use a slotted spoon to scoop it out onto each bottom bun. Place a slice of provolone cheese on the top bun. Broil for a few more minutes until cheese is melted.
- Place the top bun with the cheese on top of the bottom bun with the philly cheesesteak meat. Eat warm!
