Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

If you love hearty, flavorful sandwiches with a smoky twist, then the Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone recipe is the perfect dish for you. This mouthwatering variation of the traditional Sloppy Joe adds a rich, smoky depth to the tangy and savory filling, topped with creamy Provolone cheese that takes this classic comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply craving a comforting meal, this Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwich is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

To make the best Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika (for that smoky flavor)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 sandwich rolls or hamburger buns
• 4 slices Provolone cheese
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• Pickles or coleslaw (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling:
   In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through.
2. Season the Meat:
   Once the beef is browned, stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This combination of spices gives the dish its smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor profile. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add the Sauce:
   Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors blend together.
4. Toast the Buns:
   While the sloppy joe filling simmers, lightly butter the sandwich rolls and toast them on a skillet or under a broiler until golden and crispy. This step adds an extra layer of crunch that perfectly complements the tender filling.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   Once the sloppy joe filling is ready and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Spoon a generous amount of the smoky sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with a slice of Provolone cheese and place the sandwich under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Remove the sandwiches from the broiler, add your choice of toppings, like pickles or coleslaw, if desired, and top with the other half of the bun. Serve your Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwiches hot, with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad.

Why You’ll Love Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

This recipe takes a traditional Sloppy Joe and elevates it with a smoky flair. The rich, savory meat mixture is balanced by the tangy sweetness of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, while the Provolone cheese adds a creamy, melty texture that makes each bite extra indulgent. Whether you enjoy it with a side of pickles or a crunchy coleslaw, this sandwich is sure to impress.

Tips for the Perfect Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier sandwich, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even some hot sauce to the filling.
• Make It Ahead: The sloppy joe mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
• Try Different Cheeses: If you’re not a fan of Provolone, swap it out with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

The Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwich is a deliciously bold twist on the classic Sloppy Joe. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever you’re craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Its combination of smoky spices, savory beef, and creamy Provolone cheese makes every bite a satisfying experience. Don’t wait—try this recipe today and enjoy a fun, flavorful sandwich that will quickly become your new favorite comfort food.

Related Recipes You Might Enjoy:

• Classic Sloppy Joes: The traditional version of the Sloppy Joe, perfect for those who love classic comfort food.
• BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Another smoky sandwich option, but with tender pulled pork and tangy BBQ sauce.
• Cheesy Beef Sliders: Mini sandwiches packed with savory beef and melty cheese—perfect for game day or parties.

By incorporating the smoky flavors and creamy Provolone cheese, this recipe stands out as a delicious and satisfying choice for any meal. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for the ultimate experience!

Serving and Storage Tips for Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Sides: Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwiches are delicious on their own, but they pair well with sides like crispy French fries, coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple side salad. For a more substantial meal, try pairing with roasted vegetables or a creamy mac and cheese.
2. Toppings: Customize your sandwich by adding your favorite toppings. Pickles, jalapeños, or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce can enhance the flavors. Coleslaw adds a nice crunch and tangy contrast to the rich, smoky filling.
3. Perfect for Gatherings: These sandwiches are perfect for casual parties or family dinners. Consider serving them on a platter, cut in half for easy sharing, alongside a variety of condiments and sides.
4. Serve with Drinks: To balance the rich and smoky flavor of the sandwich, serve with cold beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer. A classic soda like root beer or cola can also be a refreshing choice.

Storage Tips:

1. Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover sloppy joe filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.
2. Freezing Leftovers: The sloppy joe filling also freezes well for longer storage. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Storing Sandwiches: While it’s best to enjoy the sandwich fresh, if you need to store the assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or parchment paper and refrigerate for up to 1 day. However, keep in mind that the texture of the toasted buns may soften when stored, so it’s ideal to toast them fresh when serving.
4. Reheating: To reheat the sandwich, you can microwave it for 30-45 seconds or toast it in the oven to restore the crispy texture of the buns. If reheating only the sloppy joe filling, simply heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone sandwiches at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh or storing leftovers for later enjoyment.

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this sandwich?
   Yes, you can definitely swap Provolone with other cheeses if you prefer! Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss cheese would all work well with the smoky flavor of the Sloppy Joe filling. Just choose a cheese that melts well to create a deliciously creamy topping.
2. Can I make the Sloppy Joe filling ahead of time?
   Absolutely! The Sloppy Joe filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches. You can also freeze the filling for up to 3 months for even longer storage.
3. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The smoky flavors will still shine through, and the overall sandwich will be just as delicious. Just make sure to cook the turkey or chicken thoroughly before adding the spices and sauce.
4. How can I adjust the spice level of the Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone?
   If you prefer a milder sandwich, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili powder. For those who enjoy extra heat, try adding more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños to the Sloppy Joe mixture to kick up the spice level. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!

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