Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes combine the classic comfort of a sloppy joe with the gooey goodness of grilled cheese. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings, this dish offers a delicious twist that will impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s an easy recipe that stands out on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The savory ground beef mixed with tangy sauces creates a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with melty cheese.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these sloppy joes on their own or with a side salad or fries for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly Appeal: With its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet or griddle
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet or griddle: Ideal for even cooking and achieving that perfect golden brown crust on your sandwiches.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients evenly, ensuring great flavor throughout.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping sandwiches without losing any fillings, making your meal look as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling

• 1/2 white onion (diced)
• 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 4 ounces tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce

For the Grilled Cheese Assembly

• Brioche sandwich slices
• Slices of mozzarella cheese
• Slices of gouda cheese
• Butter for toasting

How to Make Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by dicing the white onion, then mince the garlic cloves. Set them aside for later use.

Step 2: Create the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, combine the following:
1. 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
2. 1 teaspoon of pepper
3. 1 teaspoon of onion powder
4. 1 teaspoon of paprika
5. 1 teaspoon of chili powder

Mix these spices well to create a flavorful rub.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the avocado oil, followed by the diced onions. Season with a pinch of salt and cook for about 4–6 minutes until they are soft and translucent.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with onions. Cook for 3–4 minutes, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Sprinkle with the spice rub you prepared earlier and mix well. Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Add Tomato Sauces

Pour in both the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir to combine everything thoroughly and allow it to cook for about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Mix in Additional Flavorings

Stir in the following ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon of ketchup
– 1 tablespoon of mustard
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce

Mix thoroughly and let it cook until thickened to your liking—about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside in a bowl to keep warm.

Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Lay out your brioche sandwich slices. On each slice, place one slice of mozzarella cheese followed by one slice of gouda cheese. Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto the cheese layer, then top it off with another slice each of gouda and mozzarella cheese before adding another slice of bread on top.

Step 8: Toast Your Sandwiches

Clean your skillet if necessary and return it to medium heat. Add some butter and melt it completely. Carefully place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet, pressing down lightly. Toast one side until golden brown—about 2 minutes—then flip them over and toast until melted and golden brown on both sides, approximately another 2 minutes. Remove from skillet once done.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes!

How to Serve Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are not just a meal; they are an experience! Perfect for gatherings, these delicious sandwiches can be served in a variety of ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the sandwiches whole or cut them in half for easier handling. Pair them with a pickle on the side for a classic touch.

With a Side of Chips

• Add a handful of crispy potato chips or tortilla chips for crunch. They complement the soft, gooey texture of the sloppy joes perfectly.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top to add color and freshness. This simple touch elevates the dish visually and adds flavor.

Accompanied by Soup

• Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup for dipping. The combination is comforting and perfect for chilly days.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include the Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes on a charcuterie board with olives, cheese cubes, and cured meats. This makes for an inviting spread at parties.

How to Perfect Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

To make your Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes truly stand out, follow these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Adding more chili powder or paprika can give an extra kick.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality mozzarella and gouda cheese for better melting properties and taste.
• Toast Bread Properly: Make sure to toast the bread until it’s golden brown for added crunch and flavor.
• Experiment with Bread: While brioche is delicious, try different types like sourdough or ciabatta for unique flavors.
• Keep It Warm: If you’re serving several people, keep the sloppy joe mixture warm in an oven-safe dish while you prepare the sandwiches.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great options:

1. French Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a classic side that pairs well with any sandwich.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the sloppy joes.
3. Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
4. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides freshness that complements hearty sandwiches.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat alongside sloppy joes.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans create a comforting, hearty combination with your meal.
7. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings add another layer of crunch that pairs beautifully with gooey cheese sandwiches.
8. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings comfort food vibes that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Not seasoning enough: A bland filling can ruin the dish. Ensure you season your ground beef well with spices to enhance the flavors.
• Using low-quality cheese: Poor cheese can lead to a less enjoyable melt. Choose fresh mozzarella and gouda for the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the meat: Cooking ground beef for too long can result in dry filling. Keep an eye on it and cook just until browned.
• Skipping the butter: Not buttering the bread before toasting can lead to uneven browning. Always spread butter generously for a golden crust.
• Not allowing the mixture to thicken: Rushing this step can result in a soupy filling. Let it cook longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes?

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on classic sloppy joes, incorporating layers of melting cheese between toasted bread.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I customize my Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes?

You can add ingredients like sautéed peppers, jalapeños, or even different spices to tailor them to your taste.

Are these suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They store well and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

What can I serve with Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes?

Pair them with a side salad, fries, or sweet potato wedges for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes offer a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will love. Their versatility allows for numerous customization options, so feel free to get creative! Try out this recipe and enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

---