Welcome to the ultimate comfort food mash-up: Philly Sloppy Joes! This recipe combines the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak with the rich, saucy vibe of classic Sloppy Joes for a family-friendly dinner that’s both fun and absolutely crave-worthy. If you love big flavors, gooey cheese, and handheld meals that make everyone smile, you’ll want to make these at least 2 times a month (or maybe 2 times a week!). Whether you’re serving a crowd or spicing up a weeknight, this dish always delivers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of powerhouse ingredients to whip up these Philly Sloppy Joes, but each one adds its own pop of flavor, texture, or color to make every bite interesting. Be sure to check your pantry and fridge first—these are kitchen staples for a reason!

Olive oil: Adds a boost of richness and helps everything sizzle together beautifully in the skillet.
Lean ground beef: The hearty base that soaks up all the seasonings and keeps things satisfyingly meaty.
Onion (finely diced): Brings a sweet, aromatic note that balances out the beef.
Green pepper (diced): Adds a crisp, veggie crunch reminiscent of Philly cheesesteaks.
Garlic (minced): Doesn’t just build flavor, it builds anticipation—the kitchen will smell incredible!
Reduced sodium beef broth: Lends depth and keeps the mixture perfectly saucy, not dry.
Cornstarch: Thickens everything up, ensuring every spoonful is packed with savory goodness.
Beef bouillon: Amplifies those comforting, umami-rich notes.
Ketchup: Adds a touch of tangy sweetness that makes Sloppy Joes iconic.
Worcestershire sauce: For that extra punch of savory, slightly smoky undertones.
Dijon mustard: A hit of acidity and complexity, rounding out all the flavors.
Dried oregano & dried parsley (1 tsp each): These classic herbs keep the flavor profile lively and fresh.
Salt, pepper, dried basil, paprika (1/2 tsp each): The backbone of seasoning for warmth and a hint of complexity.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, adjustable): Totally optional, but just a pinch awakens all the flavors!
Sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated): Melty, bold, and a must for that cheesy pull.
Brioche hamburger buns: Soft, golden, and the perfect little beds for your flavorful filling.
Softened butter or mayo (for brushing): Optional, but key if you’re chasing that toasty, golden crunch.
Provolone cheese slices: The final melty layer that turns each sandwich into a Philly-inspired masterpiece.

How to Make Ultimate Philly Sloppy Joes – Cheesy & Delicious!

Step 1: Toast the Buns

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Split your brioche buns and lay them cut side up on a baking tray. If you want to level up the flavor and get a little crunch, brush the buns with softened butter or mayo—a little goes a long way. Pop the tray into the oven for just about 5 minutes. This quick toast makes the buns super sturdy, so they can handle that juicy filling without turning soggy. Meanwhile, get moving with the next step—you’ll be multitasking like a pro.

Step 2: Brown the Beef with Veggies

While the buns are getting golden, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high. Add your ground beef, diced onion, and green pepper. Let everything cook together for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic at the end and sauté for about 30 seconds; this brings big aroma and infuses every bite with irresistible garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Add the Saucy Magic

In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together your reduced sodium beef broth, cornstarch, and beef bouillon until smooth. Pour this into the skillet, followed by the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried herbs, salt, pepper, paprika, basil, and red pepper flakes. This is where the 2 worlds of Philly and Sloppy Joe really collide! Stir it all together and inhale—things are about to get deliciously saucy.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Let everything gently simmer over medium heat, stirring now and then, until most of the liquid is absorbed but the mixture is still rich and just a bit saucy—about 5 minutes is all you need. This step is key because nobody wants a dry Sloppy Joe (or a sandwich that’s so wet it needs a spoon!). You’re looking for something that mounds nicely on a bun without running wild.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheddar

Turn the heat to low and stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar. As it melts, it turns the mixture creamy and irresistible. Now’s the time to taste and adjust seasoning—try adding a little more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you want to dial up the boldness.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake with Provolone

Divide your cheesy beef mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the toasted brioche buns. Top each with a slice of provolone cheese (that signature Philly move!). Place both the filled bottoms and the tops (cut side up) back onto the baking tray and bake at 400 degrees F for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the provolone cheese is completely melted and gooey. Top with the toasted bun lids, serve straight away, and watch everyone smile after the first bite.

How to Serve Ultimate Philly Sloppy Joes – Cheesy & Delicious!

Garnishes

You can sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley, extra shredded cheddar, or even sliced green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness. A single pickle slice per sandwich never hurts if you love that tangy zip. For a spicy touch, offer a little drizzle of hot sauce on the side—this takes your Philly Sloppy Joes up a level. No two sandwiches have to look the same, so have fun with the finishing touches!

Side Dishes

Round out your 2 Philly Sloppy Joes with classic sides like crispy potato wedges, sweet potato fries, or a bright, crisp coleslaw. For something lighter, a simple green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. This sandwich pairs well with pretty much any casual side, so feel free to let your mood decide!

Creative Ways to Present

Want to get fancy? Try serving the mixture open-face on thick sourdough slices, or pile it into mini slider buns for party-sized Philly Sloppy Joes—2 bites of bliss each! If you’re feeding a crowd, keep the beef mixture warm in a slow cooker and let guests build their own sandwiches with their favorite cheeses and toppings. The possibilities are endless, and every option is pure comfort food magic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Philly Sloppy Joe filling, let it cool, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready for round 2, just scoop, heat, and serve—the flavors just keep getting better!

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled beef mixture into freezer-safe bags or containers, and label with the date. This filling makes a great last-minute meal solution, stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you want to bring Philly Sloppy Joes back for an encore.

Reheating

Warm leftover filling gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. Stir occasionlly until hot. If you’re starting with frozen portions, let them thaw first, then reheat the same way. Toast fresh buns, top with cheese, and bake as before for a just-made experience—round 2 will taste just as dreamy!

FAQs

Can I make these Philly Sloppy Joes with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey for a lighter version. The turkey soaks up all those flavorful seasonings just as well, and you may find yourself wanting to make both versions for 2 tasty options.

What’s the best kind of bread for these Sloppy Joes?

Brioche buns are my top pick for their airy, buttery texture, but any soft hamburger bun or even hoagie rolls will work. Toasting the bread is a simple step you shouldn’t skip—your sandwich will hold up better, even to the second round of sauciness!

Can I make the filling in advance?

Yes, making the filling a day ahead actually lets the flavors meld beautifully. Store in an airtight container in your fridge, then gently reheat and assemble on toasted buns whenever you’re ready. This makes weeknight dinners or casual parties twice as easy.

How spicy are these Philly Sloppy Joes?

The red pepper flakes add just a subtle kick, but you control the heat. Start with less and taste as you go, or leave them out if you’re feeding little ones. Remember, 2 dashes can change everything—season to your liking!

Do I need both cheddar and provolone cheese?

You can make the recipe with just one variety, but using both cheddar for creaminess and provolone for stretch gives the best of 2 cheese worlds in every bite. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your favorite cheese combos!

Final Thoughts

If you love comfort food with a twist, you simply have to try making these Philly Sloppy Joes at home. With just 2 easy steps—make the filling, toast the buns—you’ll have a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite. Grab your skillet and make it tonight!

Ultimate Philly Sloppy Joes – Cheesy & Delicious!

★★★★★

5 from 25 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Philly Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich, featuring a flavorful beef mixture topped with melted cheddar and provolone cheeses. Served on toasted brioche buns, these Sloppy Joes are sure to become a family favorite!

Instructions

Preheat oven and toast buns: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Split buns and lay them cut side up on a large baking tray. Lightly brush the cut sides with softened butter or mayonnaise (optional for crispier/more flavorful buns). Bake for 5 minutes to toast the buns.
Cook beef mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef, onions, and bell peppers and cook until beef is browned and onions are softened. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
Prepare sauce: In a measuring cup, whisk together beef broth, cornstarch, and beef bouillon. Add to the meat mixture along with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon, and seasonings.
Simmer and melt cheese: Simmer the mixture until most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble and bake: Divide the mixture between the toasted buns. Top each with a slice of provolone cheese. Bake at 400 degrees F until cheese is melted. Serve hot.