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Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes Recipe

I recently made these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes for dinner, and wow — they were a total hit! Imagine everything you love about a classic Philly cheesesteak — juicy beef, caramelized onions, melty cheese — but in a cozy, handheld sandwich that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 85/15 or leaner – The perfect balance of fat keeps the filling juicy without being greasy.
  • 1 tablespoon butter – Helps caramelize the onions and adds that buttery richness.
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced – Sweet and savory, it’s the flavor base of the sandwich.
  • 1 small green bell pepper diced – Adds crunch and that signature cheesesteak flavor.
  • 8 ounces mushrooms finely chopped – Optional but adds an earthy depth and a little extra meaty texture.
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup – A touch of tangy sweetness to balance the savory beef.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Brings that umami punch that makes the flavor pop.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Balances and enhances the overall flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle heat.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce and gives the filling that rich glossy finish.
  • 1 cup beef broth – Builds the saucy texture that makes every bite juicy.
  • 6 slices provolone cheese or more if you love extra cheese – Melts beautifully and delivers that signature Philly cheesesteak vibe.
  • 6 hamburger buns toasted – Toasting prevents sogginess and adds a slight crunch.

Method
 

  1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain off any excess fat but leave a little for flavor.
  2. Add butter, onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) to the pan. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are soft and fragrant. This step adds depth and a touch of sweetness to the filling.
  3. Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients balance out the savory beef with a subtle tang and richness. Mix everything well so the flavors combine beautifully.
  4. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring as it thickens. Within a few minutes, you’ll have a perfectly rich and slightly creamy sauce coating your beef and veggies.
  5. Turn off the heat and place slices of provolone cheese over the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid for about a minute until the cheese melts completely. Once it’s gooey and smooth, give everything a gentle stir so the cheese blends in.
  6. Toast your hamburger buns lightly. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom half, top with the other bun, and get ready for that first mouthwatering bite!

Notes

  • Always toast the buns — it keeps them from getting soggy and adds crunch.
  • I like to grate cheese fresh instead of using pre-sliced because it melts faster and smoother.
  • Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce — it gives that classic “steak” flavor that sets this apart from regular Sloppy Joes.
  • If you have time, caramelize the onions longer for extra sweetness and depth.
  • I sometimes add a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a little heat boost.