Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef in an even layer and let sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a brown crust. Break apart and continue cooking until browned throughout, about 5-7 minutes total. Transfer beef to a plate, leaving the fat in the skillet.
- Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced mushrooms. Let cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes to caramelize, then stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth and cornstarch until completely smooth with no lumps.
- Return the browned beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the beef broth mixture, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables. The consistency should be saucy but not soupy.
- Turn off the heat completely. Add the chopped Provolone cheese and stir continuously until it melts into the mixture, creating a creamy, gooey filling.
- Toast the brioche buns until golden. For extra richness, brush the cut sides with butter before toasting. Pile the cheesy beef mixture generously onto the bottom buns, top with the other half, and serve immediately.
Notes
Storage: Store filling separately from buns in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or in the microwave. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Bread Options: Potato rolls, kaiser rolls, or toasted sourdough work well. Always toast the buns to prevent sogginess. Cheese: Block Provolone chopped yourself melts better than pre-shredded. White American or a Provolone-mozzarella blend also work. Protein Swaps: Ground turkey or chicken work but are milder. Add extra butter and Worcestershire sauce to compensate. Vegetable Options: Use red or yellow bell peppers for sweetness. Add jalapeƱos for heat. Omit mushrooms if preferred and increase bell pepper amount. Make It Saucier: Increase beef broth to 1.5 cups and cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons for a wetter filling. Serving Suggestions: Serve with crispy potato wedges, coleslaw, sweet potato fries, pickle spears, or a simple salad.
