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Smokey Sloppy Joe and Provolone

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These sloppy joes are made with a rich, smoky sauce, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted provolone cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, they’ll become an instant favorite.

Ingredients

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For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (preferably smoky-flavored)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for extra smokiness)
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

  • 4 sandwich rolls or hamburger buns
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • Butter for toasting the buns (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Meat:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
    • Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Make the Smoky Sauce:
    • Stir in the ketchup, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
    • Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat.
  3. Toast the Buns (Optional):
    • Spread butter on the cut sides of the sandwich rolls and toast them in a skillet or under the broiler until golden brown.
  4. Assemble the Sandwiches:
    • Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
    • Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the meat mixture. Cover with the top bun.
    • To melt the cheese, you can place the sandwiches on a baking sheet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or cover the skillet briefly over low heat.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the sandwiches warm with a side of coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple salad.


Notes

  • Make Ahead: The sloppy joe filling can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
  • Bun Choices: Use brioche buns, pretzel rolls, or ciabatta for a gourmet twist.
  • Customize: Add sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or jalapeños for extra flavor.