Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joe Sandwich Recipe
Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joe Sandwich combines two comfort food favorites—grilled cheese and sloppy joes—into one mouthwatering dish. This recipe features buttery, crispy bread filled with a rich, savory, and slightly sweet beef filling, finished with gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect meal for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal.
- Cheesy & Savory: The perfect blend of melted cheese and flavorful ground beef.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults will love this hearty sandwich.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the Grilled Cheese:
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread (sourdough or Texas toast works best)
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface.
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on each slice.
- Spoon a generous amount of sloppy joe filling over the cheese.
- Top with more cheese and place the remaining slices of bread on top, butter-side up.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip carefully and cook until the other side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Add a pickle on the side for a tangy contrast.
Tips for the Best Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joe
- Use fresh bread: Thick-cut bread holds up better to the filling and grilling process.
- Choose the right cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella provides the perfect gooey texture.
- Don’t rush the grilling: Cook over medium-low heat to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
- Customize it: Add jalapeños for a spicy kick, or use provolone cheese for a different flavor twist.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the filling in a pan over medium heat before assembling fresh sandwiches.
FAQs
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sloppy joe filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and grill the sandwiches when ready to eat.
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! Sourdough, brioche, or even ciabatta work well for a gourmet twist.
Can I freeze sloppy joe filling?
Yes, store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
This Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joe Sandwich is a must-try recipe that blends bold flavors with gooey, cheesy goodness. Perfect for a quick meal, it will satisfy any comfort food craving. Try it today!
