Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks have a delightful way of bringing comfort and joy to any meal. Picture sinking your teeth into a warm, toasty brioche bun filled with a rich blend of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and savory ground beef, all topped with layer upon layer of gooey melted cheese. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience that mixes flavors and textures into an irresistible feast. While many might have a nostalgic connection to classic cheesesteaks, this twist on the Philadelphia favorite, featuring ground beef, has made its way into my family’s regular rotation.

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I first discovered this recipe during a bustling weeknight meal prep session, juggling the needs of hungry kids and looming deadlines. The thrill of combining just a few simple ingredients into something so satisfying intrigued me. Not only is this recipe a true crowd-pleaser—perfect for busy families and gatherings alike—but it also checks the boxes for being easy, budget-friendly, and quick to prepare. If you’re looking to spice up dinner or impress your guests, let me invite you to whip up these delicious Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks. You’ll be glad you did!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in about 35 minutes, ideal for weeknight meals.
Irresistible Flavor: A perfect blend of savory beef, sweet peppers, and rich cheese.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Tantalizing colors from the peppers and gooey cheese make it visually inviting.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinner, a game day snack, or even as a filling lunch.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable with gluten-free buns or low-carb alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds healthy fat for sautéing the veggies while providing a rich flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil if desired.
1 small onion, diced: Onions add sweetness and depth. Yellow or red onions work well too.
1 small green bell pepper, diced: This pepper contributes a crisp texture and lovely color. Feel free to exchange it with a poblano for added heat.
1 small red bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and a pop of color—vibrant hues equal delicious cheer in any dish!
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances everything, but if you’re in a pinch, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder is a handy substitute.
2 pounds lean ground beef (90/10 recommended): The foundation of your cheesesteak, providing protein and flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
⅓ cup BBQ sauce: Adds sweetness and tang; choose your favorite store-bought sauce or whisk up a quick homemade version.
1 cup beef broth: Use a good-quality broth for enhanced flavor; avoid condensed versions as they can be too salty.
1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon beef base or a beef bouillon cube: This concentrates flavor without excess volume. Adjust based on your taste preferences.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A little dash brings savory depth; soy sauce is a suitable alternative if needed.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhance flavors, but adjust to your taste.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Just a hint adds warmth; freshly ground is best for flavor.
8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: Hand-shredded melts beautifully and contributes creaminess. Cheddar can also work if you prefer something sharper.
6 brioche buns: These add a sweet, buttery flavor that complements the beef. Go for gluten-free buns if needed or even skip the bun for a low-carb meal.

How to Make Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks

Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen.
Cook the beef: Push the sautéed veggies to the side of the pan and add 2 pounds of lean ground beef. Brown the meat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a meat chopper or wooden spoon as it cooks. Mix the ground beef with the veggies, ensuring everything melds together nicely.
Combine the flavors: Pour in ⅓ cup of BBQ sauce, 1 cup of beef broth, 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon beef base, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of ground pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cheesy goodness: Just before serving, fold in 8 ounces of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, letting it melt into the beef mixture.
Serve it up: Spoon the savory beef mixture into the brioche buns. Toast the buns in butter on a skillet or in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes if you like them crispy—this adds an extra delightful texture!

Storing & Reheating

To store your Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks, let them cool, and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. If you find the mixture has thickened, adding a splash of beef broth can help restore its saucy charm.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the pan while sautéing your vegetables, as this may hinder their ability to soften.
For optimal flavor, let your beef come to room temperature before browning, allowing for an even cook.
When mixing the cheese in, ensure the heat is low enough to melt it without seizing up.
Don’t skip toasting the buns; this small step can add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft filling.
Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavor combinations, like pepper jack for a spicy twist.

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks offer a simple yet delicious way to satisfy your cravings. Not only are they cheesy and comforting, but they also deliver convenience without compromising flavor. Plus, you can easily adapt them to suit your family’s preferences. Toss in favorite veggies or switch up the cheese—every bite can be a little different, keeping this dish exciting. Enjoy every decadent moment!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it before assembling your sandwiches. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to deepen.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Definitely! While this recipe highlights ground beef, you can substitute it with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Ground sausage can also be an exciting alternative that adds a bit of spice.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can easily adapt the recipe to be dairy-free by using a dairy-free cheese substitute or simply omitting the cheese altogether. The beef and veggie filling is still so flavorful even without it!

What sides can I serve with these sandwiches?

These cheesesteaks pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with seasoned fries, a fresh side salad, or even homemade coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.

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