• 1 pound lean ground beef: Lean is key here to avoid excessive grease, but still gives you that rich beefy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Unsalted is generally preferred so you can control the saltiness, but salted works too. It’s for sautéing and building flavor.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced: Onions add a foundational sweetness and aromatic depth. Dicing them small helps them blend seamlessly into the mix.
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced: This adds a touch of freshness and that classic Philly flavor.
• 8 ounces brown mushrooms, minced: Mushrooms are fantastic for adding an umami punch and a meaty texture. Minced helps them integrate into the “sloppy” consistency.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: A touch of sweetness and tang to balance the savory notes.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This is your secret weapon for deep, savory, umami flavor. Don’t skip it!
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt: For seasoning. Kosher salt has larger crystals and is easier to control than table salt.
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: For a touch of warmth and spice. Freshly ground makes a difference!
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Our thickening agent. It creates that perfect, hearty sauce consistency.
• 1 cup beef broth: The liquid base for our sauce, adding even more beefy flavor. Low sodium is a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake.
• 8 ounces Provolone Cheese Slices, chopped: This is the star of the “cheese steak” part! Provolone melts beautifully and has that signature mild, nutty flavor. If you prefer it less cheesy, 6 ounces is also perfectly fine.
• 6 brioche hamburger buns: These are the perfect vehicle for our sloppy joe mixture. Their slight sweetness and soft texture are a dream with the savory filling.

Smart Swaps and Ingredient Flexibility:

• Ground Beef Alternatives: While ground beef is classic, you could experiment with ground turkey or even a plant-based ground “meat” alternative for a different spin. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Vegetable Variations:
• Onions: White onion works just as well.
• Bell Peppers: If you don’t have green, red or yellow bell peppers can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Mushrooms: White button mushrooms can easily substitute for brown mushrooms. If you’re not a mushroom fan, you can reduce the amount or omit them, but they really do add a lot of flavor!
• Cheese Choices:Mozzarella or sharp white cheddar can replace Provolone for a different melt or bolder flavor.
• Provolone: While Provolone is traditional, you could try Mozzarella for a super stringy melt, or even a sharp white cheddar for a bolder flavor. A blend of cheeses would also be delicious!
• Buns: If brioche isn’t available, any good quality hamburger bun will work. Even toasted slices of sourdough or a crusty baguette could make an interesting open-faced sandwich.