I love this recipe because it brings all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak into an easy, cozy, homemade sloppy joe-style sandwich. I make it when I want something hearty, cheesy, and comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen. It is messy in the best way and always disappears fast at my table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy how quick and budget-friendly this recipe is while still tasting rich and satisfying. I like that it uses simple ingredients I usually already have on hand. The combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and melted cheese makes every bite comforting, and I can easily adjust it to fit my mood or what is in my fridge.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or finely chopped steak
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 green bell pepper, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup beef broth
6 slices provolone cheese or 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone
4 to 6 hamburger buns or hoagie rolls
Directions
I start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook them until soft and fragrant, usually about 4 to 5 minutes. I stir in the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds.
I add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. I drain off any excess grease if needed. Then I stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and paprika.
I pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly and becomes juicy but not soupy. I lower the heat, place the provolone cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt completely.
I spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the buns and serve immediately while everything is hot and melty.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 to 6 servings from this recipe, depending on how full I like my sandwiches.
Preparation time: about 10 minutes
Cooking time: about 20 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
I sometimes swap ground beef for thinly sliced steak for a more traditional Philly flavor. When I want extra richness, I mix in a little cream cheese before adding the provolone. I also like using mushrooms or red bell peppers for extra texture. For a spicy version, I add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if it looks dry. I toast fresh buns before serving to keep everything tasting fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I often make the filling a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors actually get even better after resting.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
I prefer provolone because it melts beautifully and has that classic Philly flavor, but mozzarella or American cheese also work well.
Can I freeze Philly Cheese-Steak Joes?
I freeze the cooked beef mixture without the buns for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Is this recipe spicy?
I find it mild as written, but I can easily make it spicy by adding chili flakes or hot sauce.
What can I serve with these sandwiches?
I usually serve them with fries, potato chips, or a simple side salad to balance the richness.
Conclusion
I love making Philly Cheese-Steak Joes when I want something comforting, cheesy, and easy. This recipe brings big flavor with minimal effort and is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It is one of those meals I keep coming back to because it always hits the spot.
Philly Cheese-Steak Joes combine the hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the casual ease of a sloppy joe. Juicy beef, tender veggies, and melted provolone are served hot on soft buns for a quick, comforting meal.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or finely chopped steak
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 green bell pepper, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup beef broth
6 slices provolone cheese or 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone
4 to 6 hamburger buns or hoagie rolls
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and green pepper for 4–5 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Pour in beef broth and simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Lower the heat and top the beef with provolone cheese. Cover until melted.
Spoon cheesy beef mixture onto buns and serve hot.
Notes
Use thinly sliced steak for a traditional Philly flavor.
Add cream cheese for extra richness.
Try mushrooms or red peppers for added variety.
Store leftover filling separately from buns to keep them fresh.
