Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes

This Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes recipe is a fun twist on the classic sloppy joe. Bursting with flavor from seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just the right amount of kick from jalapeños and topped off with fresh tomatoes and cilantro, these sliders are sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

Cheesy taco sloppy joes served on a plate with toppings

Why make this recipe

Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes are a great choice for a quick family meal. This recipe combines familiar ingredients in a new and exciting way. It’s delicious, easy to make, and can be adjusted to fit your spice level. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use lean ground beef and pack in some veggies. You can have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes!

How to make Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon butter (unsalted)
  • 1 medium red onion (diced)
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2-3 jalapeños (diced – or less)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup Mexican blend shredded cheese
  • 6 brioche hamburger buns
  • 2 diced tomatoes
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped cilantro or parsley
  • Fresh lime

Directions:

  1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the butter.
  2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño peppers. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften.
  3. Add the beef to the pan and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix the beef with the veggies and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Add the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
  5. In a small cup, mix the beef broth and cornstarch, then add this mixture to the pan. Stir together and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the mixture is only slightly liquid.
  6. Turn off the heat and mix in the Mexican blend cheese.
  7. Serve on toasted brioche buns topped with diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
  8. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

How to serve Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes

Serve these tasty Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes on toasted brioche buns for a delightful experience. You can also add additional toppings such as lettuce, avocado, or your favorite hot sauce to customize each sandwich based on personal taste.

How to store Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes

Leftover Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then serve on fresh or toasted buns.

Tips to make Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes

  • If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds before dicing them.
  • For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
  • Feel free to use any kind of cheese you like! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack are great options for a different flavor.

Variation

You can easily make these Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes using chicken or turkey instead of ground beef. Additionally, switch up the toppings with ingredients like avocado or sliced olives for added taste.

FAQs

Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes?

Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture without the buns. Place it in an airtight container and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat.

What can I serve with Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes?

These Sloppy Joes pair well with a side of chips, a simple salad, or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How spicy are these Sloppy Joes?

The spiciness depends on the amount of jalapeños you use. You can easily adjust this to your taste by using fewer jalapeños or opting for milder peppers.

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Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes

A fun twist on the classic sloppy joe, bursting with flavor from seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the filling

  • 1 pound lean ground beef You can substitute with chicken or turkey.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 medium red onion, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 jalapeños, diced For a milder flavor, reduce or remove seeds.
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ cup beef broth
  • 1 cup Mexican blend shredded cheese Other cheeses can be used.

For serving

  • 6 brioche hamburger buns Toast before serving.
  • 2 diced tomatoes
  • Sour cream For topping.
  • Chopped cilantro or parsley For garnish.
  • Fresh lime Use for squeezing over the top.

Instructions
 

Cooking the Filling

  • Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the butter.
  • Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño peppers. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften.
  • Add the beef to the pan and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix the beef with the veggies and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat.
  • Add the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
  • In a small cup, mix the beef broth and cornstarch, then add this mixture to the pan. Stir together and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the mixture is only slightly liquid.
  • Turn off the heat and mix in the Mexican blend cheese.

Serving

  • Serve on toasted brioche buns topped with diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

Leftover Cheesy Taco Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then serve on fresh or toasted buns.
Keyword Beef, Cheesy, Quick Meal, Sloppy Joes, Taco