If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity together in one skillet, these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes are a perfect choice. This dish blends the savory charm of a traditional philly cheesesteak with the nostalgic, saucy goodness of a classic sloppy joe. It’s the kind of meal that feels familiar but still exciting, making it a great option for busy weeknights, family meals, casual gatherings, or anytime you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its approachability—minimal prep, everyday ingredients, and a one-pan cooking process that keeps things simple. Yet, despite being easy, it produces rich, layered flavors that taste like they took far longer to build. Tender ground beef, sweet caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, and mushrooms come together in a flavorful sauce before being finished with creamy, melted provolone cheese. Piled onto toasted brioche buns, the result is a comforting, irresistibly messy sandwich that hits all the right notes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Philly cheesesteak lovers will appreciate how this recipe transforms classic components into a more relaxed, weeknight-friendly dish. Instead of thinly sliced steak, lean ground beef creates a savory base that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully. The peppers, onions, and mushrooms provide warmth and depth, while a simple homemade sauce adds the tangy-sweet balance you’d normally expect from a sloppy joe.

If you enjoy comfort food dinners that are hearty but unfussy, this philly cheesesteak–inspired meal will quickly become a go-to option. It’s versatile, affordable, crowd-pleasing, and easy to customize, whether you like a cheesier filling, extra vegetables, or a spicier kick.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This dinner recipe uses staple ingredients, many of which may already be in your fridge or pantry:

• 1 lb lean ground beef – Creates a hearty, tender base while keeping excess grease to a minimum.
• 2 tbsp butter – Adds richness and helps caramelize the vegetables.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – Brings sweetness and depth.
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced – A classic philly cheesesteak flavor.
• 8 oz mushrooms, minced – Adds umami and moisture.
• 2 tbsp ketchup – A key component for balancing tangy and sweet flavors.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Contributes savory depth and a hint of smokiness.
• ½ tsp kosher salt & ½ tsp black pepper – Simple seasoning that lets the other ingredients shine.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to a perfect consistency.
• 1 cup beef broth – Adds moisture and flavor, binding the sauce together.
• 8 oz provolone cheese, chopped – Melts into a creamy, cheesy finish; reduce to 6 oz for a lighter version.
• 6 brioche hamburger buns – Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for soaking up the filling.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef for Maximum Flavor

Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and allow it to sit undisturbed for a few minutes so it develops a deep brown crust—a key step in building flavor. Once the bottom has browned, break the meat into small pieces and continue cooking until about half the beef has a rich, golden crust. Remove the cooked beef from the skillet, leaving any rendered fat behind.

2. Caramelize the Vegetables

Add the butter to the skillet. Stir in the diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, spreading them out in an even layer. Let the vegetables cook without stirring for 1–2 minutes to encourage caramelization, then stir and cook for another 1–2 minutes. This browning step adds a deep, naturally sweet flavor that makes the filling more complex and satisfying.

3. Build the Sauce

Return the cooked beef to the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and cornstarch until no lumps remain. Pour this mixture into the pan along with the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, then let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes. As it cooks, the sauce will thicken and cling to the meat and vegetables, giving you the hearty, spoonable filling that defines a great sloppy joe.

4. Melt in the Cheese

When the mixture has thickened, turn off the heat and add the chopped provolone. Stir until the cheese melts completely and coats the filling in a velvety, cheesy layer. This is where the philly cheesesteak flavor truly comes alive.

5. Assemble and Serve

Toast the brioche buns for a few minutes to give them structure and a touch of crispness. Then spoon generous amounts of the warm, cheesy filling onto each bun. Serve immediately and enjoy a comforting, savory philly cheesesteak–style dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights but delicious enough to share with guests.

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Serving Ideas

• For a classic pairing, serve with fries or potato wedges.
• A crisp green salad or coleslaw adds freshness against the rich filling.
• For a fun twist, spoon the mixture over baked potatoes instead of buns.

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