Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the traditional Philly cheesesteak but want a faster, more accessible option, this Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak will become your go-to. The ground beef cooks quickly, absorbing all the savory flavors from the seasonings and veggies, making it the perfect filling for your sandwich. With melted cheese oozing over the beef and veggies, each bite is packed with flavor and comfort. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a Philly cheesesteak without the need for thinly sliced beef or a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hoagie rolls
8 slices provolone cheese or American cheese
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
Sauté the veggies: While the beef is cooking, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Season with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce if using for extra flavor.
Combine beef and veggies: Once the vegetables are tender, stir them into the cooked ground beef. Mix well to combine, and let the flavors meld together for 1-2 minutes.
Assemble the sandwiches: Split the hoagie rolls lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through—leave them hinged. Spoon the beef and veggie mixture into each roll, dividing it evenly.
Melt the cheese: Top each sandwich with 2 slices of cheese. You can either melt the cheese by placing the sandwiches under a broiler for 1-2 minutes or cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms: For extra flavor, sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers.
Use different cheese: Swap the provolone or American cheese for cheddar, Swiss, or even mozzarella for a different twist.
Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
Swap the bread: Instead of hoagie rolls, you can use soft sandwich buns or even wrap the mixture in a tortilla for a Philly cheesesteak wrap.
Make it low-carb: Skip the roll and serve the beef and veggies over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat. If reheating the sandwiches, wrap them in foil and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use lean ground beef?

Yes, lean ground beef works well in this recipe, but keep in mind that it may not have as much flavor as fattier cuts. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

Can I make this recipe with shredded beef?

While traditional Philly cheesesteaks use thinly sliced beef, you can absolutely substitute shredded beef if you prefer. Just make sure it’s cooked until tender and add it to the veggie mixture for the same delicious effect.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free hoagie rolls or serve the beef mixture in lettuce wraps.

Can I prepare the beef and veggie mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and then reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella. Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect combo.

Can I add more veggies to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or even tomatoes for a twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make the sandwich spicier, you can add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To keep the bread from getting soggy, make sure to use crusty rolls and toast them lightly before filling them with the beef mixture.

Can I make these in advance?

While these sandwiches are best served fresh, you can make the beef and veggie mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just heat and assemble when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks?

These sandwiches are hearty on their own, but you can serve them with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks bring all the mouthwatering flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a quicker and simpler version that’s just as satisfying. With savory ground beef, caramelized onions, peppers, and melted cheese, this dish is packed with comfort and flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual lunch, or even a fun family meal. Easy to make and guaranteed to please, these sandwiches will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.