If you’re looking for a comfort food that is both hearty and delicious, the Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese is a perfect choice. This recipe combines two beloved meals into one mouthwatering sandwich. It features a flavorful Sloppy Joe mixture nestled between gooey melted cheese and crispy, buttery bread. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table.
Why Make This Recipe
The Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese is not only easy to prepare but also saves you from choosing between two favorites. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it offers a delightful blend of textures—the crispy bread, the savory beef mixture, and the melty cheese come together to create a satisfying bite. It’s comfort food at its best!
How to Make Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Making a Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese is straightforward and fun. Here’s how you can create this delicious sandwich in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 8 slices Texas toast or hearty white bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter
Directions:
- Cook the Beef: Add ground beef to a nonstick pan placed over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once crumbled, add the onion and green pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion and pepper are softened.
- Mix Ingredients: Add ketchup, dry mustard, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Stir well and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes. Then, remove from heat.
- Prepare the Sandwiches: For each sandwich, spread 1/4 cup cheese on top of one slice of bread. Add a generous amount of the Sloppy Joe mixture on top of the cheese. Place a second slice of bread on top.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a griddle or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of butter, let it melt, and place a sandwich on top. Cook until the bottom is golden. Lift the sandwich with a spatula, add another 1/2 tablespoon of butter, and then flip the sandwich over. Cook until the cheese is melted and the other side is golden.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Serve your Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese hot off the grill. You can slice the sandwiches in half for easier handling. Pair them with a side of pickles, potato chips, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
If you have leftovers, store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quick option.
Tips to Make Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped onions and bell peppers will enhance the flavor of your Sloppy Joe mixture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook one or two sandwiches at a time for the best grilling results.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist on the classic recipe.
Variation
You can easily adjust the recipe based on your preferences. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also add extra toppings like jalapeños, olives, or even BBQ sauce for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joe mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the sandwiches just before grilling for the best results.
2. What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Texas toast or hearty white bread works wonderfully because it holds up well to the filling. However, you can use any bread you prefer.
3. Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture?
Absolutely! The Sloppy Joe mixture can be frozen. Just let it cool down completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef Use a lower fat content for a healthier option.
- ½ medium onion (chopped) Freshly chopped enhances the flavor.
- ¼ cup chopped green pepper
- ⅔ cup ketchup
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for extra heat.
For the sandwiches
- 8 slices Texas toast or hearty white bread Use a sturdy bread to hold the filling.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Other cheeses like pepper jack can be used.
- 4 tablespoons butter Softened for spreading.
Instructions
Cook the Beef
- Add ground beef to a nonstick pan over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks.
- Add onion and green pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion and pepper are softened.
Mix Ingredients
- Add ketchup, dry mustard, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
- Cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Prepare the Sandwiches
- Spread 1/4 cup cheese on one slice of bread. Add a generous amount of the Sloppy Joe mixture on top of the cheese. Top with a second slice of bread.
Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat a griddle or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of butter, let it melt, and place a sandwich on top.
- Cook until the bottom is golden, then flip with a spatula and add another 1/2 tablespoon of butter.
- Cook until the cheese is melted and the other side is golden.
