### Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
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#### **Introduction**
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes combine the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the casual ease of a sloppy joe. This dish brings together juicy ground beef, melted provolone cheese, sautéed onions and peppers, all packed into a soft bun. A great twist on a classic, these Sloppy Joes make for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
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#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
The Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia in the early 20th century, where it quickly became a regional favorite known for its combination of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll. The sloppy joe, an all-American classic dating back to the 1930s, takes a looser, saucier approach to sandwich fillings. Merging these two dishes creates a fun, family-friendly take on the cheesesteak, celebrating American culinary innovation.
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#### **Ingredients Quantity**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tbsp ketchup
– 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
– 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded or sliced
– 4-6 hamburger buns or soft rolls
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#### **Optional Additions**
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms, for added depth
– 1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic, for extra flavor
– A dash of hot sauce, for a spicy kick
– Butter-toasted buns for added richness
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#### **Tips for Success**
– Use fresh, high-quality beef for the best flavor.
– Sauté the onions and peppers until softened to bring out their natural sweetness.
– If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water and stir into the beef mixture.
– Toasting the buns adds extra flavor and prevents them from getting too soggy.
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#### **Instructions**
1. **Cook the Beef and Vegetables:**
– In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
– Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and optional mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are softened.
2. **Add Seasoning and Sauce:**
– Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
– If using, add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Stir until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
3. **Add Cheese:**
– Stir in the shredded provolone cheese and cook until melted and gooey, coating the beef mixture.
4. **Assemble the Sloppy Joes:**
– Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns or soft rolls. Toast the buns in butter for added richness, if desired.
5. **Serve:**
– Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes hot, garnished with extra cheese or sliced peppers, if desired.
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#### **Description**
These Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes offer all the flavors of a traditional cheesesteak with the convenience of a sloppy joe. The juicy beef is rich and flavorful, mingling with gooey cheese and tender peppers and onions for an irresistible sandwich. The buns soak up the savory sauce, making every bite satisfyingly messy and delicious.
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#### **Nutritional Information** (per serving, approximately):
– **Calories:** ~420
– **Protein:** 25g
– **Carbohydrates:** 30g
– **Fat:** 22g
– **Fiber:** 3g
– **Sugar:** 5g
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#### **Conclusion and Recommendation**
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes offer a creative, easy twist on two beloved classics. They make a fantastic meal for families, game nights, or any casual gathering. Serve with a side of coleslaw, a green salad, or some baked potato wedges for a complete meal that will satisfy all ages.
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#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
To lighten up this recipe, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, low-fat cheese, and whole-grain buns. Adding extra vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, will increase fiber and nutrients. With these small tweaks, you can enjoy the savory flavors of this dish with less guilt—perfect for a health-conscious indulgence!