Description
Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes combine two comfort food favorites into one delicious sandwich! Juicy, flavorful ground beef in a tangy sauce is nestled between layers of melted cheese and crispy, buttery bread. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a fun family dinner or a game-day treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices sandwich bread (white, sourdough, or your choice)
- 8 slices cheddar or American cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
Make the Sloppy Joe Filling:
-
Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add Vegetables:
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- Cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
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Mix in Sauce Ingredients:
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
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Prepare the Bread:
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
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Layer Ingredients:
- Place a slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet.
- Add a slice of cheese, then spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly on top.
- Add another slice of cheese and top with a second slice of bread, butter-side up.
Grill the Sandwiches:
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Heat the Skillet:
- Cook sandwiches over medium heat in a skillet or griddle.
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Cook Until Golden:
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Press gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt evenly.
Serve:
-
Slice and Enjoy:
- Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with fries, a fresh salad, or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make It Spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sloppy joe mixture.
- Add Toppings: Include pickles, caramelized onions, or a slice of tomato for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.