Cook the Beef and Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and bell peppers, and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef:
Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and hot sauce (if using). Mix everything together well. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
While the beef mixture is simmering, slice your hoagie rolls or sandwich buns in half. Optionally, you can toast them lightly on a separate skillet for a few minutes for extra crunch.
Once the beef mixture is ready, spoon a generous amount onto the bottom half of each bun.
Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese on top of the beef mixture, then cover with a lid or foil to melt the cheese for about 2-3 minutes. If using American cheese slices, just place a slice directly on the beef mixture and let it melt.
Serve:
Once the cheese is melted and the buns are toasted (if you chose to toast them), place the top half of the bun on top and serve immediately.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or a simple salad for a complete meal. You can also add pickles or jalapeños for a tangy or spicy kick.
For a more authentic Philly feel, serve the Sloppy Joes with a side of potato chips or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the sandwich.
Storing Leftovers:
If you have leftovers, store the beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
For the buns, it’s best to store them separately and toast them fresh each time to maintain their texture.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version:
For a vegetarian alternative, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled mushrooms. Follow the same steps to make the sauce and assemble the sandwiches.
Cheese Variations:
While provolone is the classic cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks, you can experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicier option.
Add Mushrooms:
To give your Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes an even more authentic touch, sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers to add extra flavor and texture to the filling.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before serving and assemble the Sloppy Joes with fresh buns and melted cheese.
Q: What can I substitute for the hoagie rolls?
A: If you don’t have hoagie rolls, you can use any soft sandwich buns, baguettes, or even pita bread for a different twist.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Q: How spicy is this recipe?
A: The level of spiciness depends on the amount of hot sauce you add. If you prefer a milder version, simply omit the hot sauce, or use a milder variety like a sweet chili sauce instead.
Q: Can I freeze the beef mixture for later use?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
These Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes are the perfect mashup of two beloved dishes, offering savory flavors, melted cheese, and hearty satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, these Sloppy Joes are a versatile and delicious choice that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
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