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Mac and Cheese Sloppy Joes

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Mac and Cheese Sloppy Joes combine two comfort food favorites into one indulgent dish. Juicy, flavorful beef is topped with creamy mac and cheese, all served on a soft bun. This fun and satisfying recipe is perfect for family dinners, game days, or when you want a nostalgic twist on traditional Sloppy Joes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comfort Food Fusion: Combines classic mac and cheese with savory Sloppy Joes.
  • Kid-Friendly: A fun and delicious meal the whole family will love.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses or seasonings to make it your own.

Ingredients

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

For the Sloppy Joes:

  • Ground beef
  • Onion (finely diced)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Ketchup
  • Tomato paste
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Mustard
  • Brown sugar
  • Salt and pepper

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • Elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
  • Butter
  • All-purpose flour
  • Milk (whole or 2%)
  • Cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper

For Assembly:

  • Burger buns (toasted if desired)

Directions

this recipe

Make the Sloppy Joes:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside.

Make the Mac and Cheese:

  1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese (and Parmesan, if using) until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.

Assemble the Sloppy Joes:

  1. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
  2. Top with a generous scoop of mac and cheese.
  3. Place the top half of the bun on and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes 6 Sloppy Joes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture.
  • Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack for the mac and cheese.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.
  • Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat buns or pasta for a healthier twist.
  • Bacon Lover’s: Add crumbled bacon to the mac and cheese for extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store Sloppy Joe mixture and mac and cheese separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. Toast buns just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought mac and cheese?

Yes, store-bought or boxed mac and cheese works well for a quicker option.

What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Gouda, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture and mac and cheese in advance. Assemble and heat when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture and mac and cheese separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with Mac and Cheese Sloppy Joes?

Serve with a side salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toast the buns lightly before assembling, and serve immediately to prevent sogginess.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and buns, and substitute cornstarch for the flour in the roux.

Can I add veggies to the mac and cheese?

Yes, stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrients.

Are there low-carb alternatives for this recipe?

Use lettuce wraps or low-carb buns and cauliflower mac and cheese as substitutes.

How can I make this extra cheesy?

Add an extra cup of cheese to the mac and cheese or sprinkle shredded cheese over the Sloppy Joe mixture before assembling.

Conclusion

Mac and Cheese Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mashup, delivering bold flavors and creamy textures in every bite. This fun and hearty recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying your cravings for something indulgent. Customize it to your liking and enjoy this mouthwatering dish at your next meal!

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Mac and Cheese Sloppy Joes

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This indulgent twist on Sloppy Joes combines creamy mac and cheese with savory seasoned beef, all piled high on a toasted bun. It’s comfort food taken to the next level, perfect for family dinners or a crowd-pleasing treat!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the sloppy joe mixture:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce or ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mac and cheese:

  • 1 1/2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni or small pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) milk
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For assembly:

  • 4–6 burger buns, toasted
  • Optional toppings: pickles, chopped green onions

Instructions

Prepare the sloppy joe mixture:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Add the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Make the mac and cheese:

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Season with mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat.

Assemble the sloppy joes:

  1. Spoon a generous layer of the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with a scoop of mac and cheese.
  2. Add optional toppings like pickles or green onions, place the top bun on, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • Leftovers can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
  • For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the sloppy joe mixture or the mac and cheese.

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