Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes combine two classic comfort foods into one deliciously messy sandwich. This recipe features savory, saucy ground beef filling sandwiched between layers of melty cheese and crispy, buttery bread. It’s the perfect twist on traditional sloppy joes, offering all the cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese with the bold flavors of a sloppy joe filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two favorites: grilled cheese and sloppy joes
• Easy and quick to make in under 30 minutes
• Perfect for a family-friendly meal or a casual get-together
• Super cheesy and deliciously messy
• Great for weeknight dinners or a fun weekend meal

Ingredients

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

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sandwiches:

• 8 slices white or sourdough bread
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or 8 slices of cheese)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened

Directions

Make the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
   • Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet.
   • Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Mix the Sauce:
   • Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   • Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Assemble the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

1. Prepare the Bread:
   • Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Layer the Cheese and Sloppy Joe Filling:
   • Place a slice of bread (buttered side down) in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese or place a slice of cheese on the bread.
   • Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe filling over the cheese.
   • Top with another layer of cheese and a second slice of bread (buttered side up).

Cook the Sandwiches

1. Grill the Sandwiches:
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
   • Press gently with a spatula to help the sandwich hold together.
2. Repeat:
   • Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.
3. Serve:
   • Slice in half and serve immediately, with pickles or chips on the side if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• BBQ Sloppy Joes: Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Cheesy Sloppy Joes: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for extra cheesiness.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.
• Garlic Butter Bread: Mix garlic powder into the butter before spreading it on the bread for a garlic bread twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the sloppy joe filling for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the filling in a skillet or microwave and assemble fresh sandwiches when ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I make the sloppy joe filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

2. What type of bread is best for grilled cheese sloppy joes?

Thick, sturdy bread like sourdough, Texas toast, or brioche works best.

3. How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Toast the bread slightly before assembling, or use a light layer of butter to create a barrier.

4. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms can be added for extra nutrition.

5. What cheeses work well for this recipe?

Cheddar, American, Swiss, or a cheese blend all melt well and add great flavor.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bread and ensure the condiments and sauces are gluten-free.

7. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.

8. How do I keep the cheese from oozing out during cooking?

Press the sandwich gently with a spatula and cook on medium heat to allow the cheese to melt slowly and evenly.

9. Can I bake the sandwiches instead of grilling them?

Yes, assemble the sandwiches and bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

10. What can I serve with grilled cheese sloppy joes?

Serve with potato chips, pickles, a side salad, or tomato soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mash-up, offering the best of both grilled cheese sandwiches and classic sloppy joes. The melty cheese, savory beef filling, and crispy, buttery bread create a sandwich that is irresistible and satisfying. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or whenever you’re craving a cheesy, flavorful meal. Try this fun twist on two classic favorites and enjoy every delicious bite!

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