Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes Recipe

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes combine the cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich with the hearty, savory filling of a classic Sloppy Joe. Imagine biting into a perfectly toasted sandwich with gooey melted cheese and a rich, flavorful meat filling—it’s comfort food at its finest! If you're a fan of both grilled cheese and Sloppy Joes, this hybrid dish is about to become a staple in your home. Follow this recipe to create the ultimate comfort meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Keep reading to discover the secret behind the perfect Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes, including tips on ingredient substitutions, step-by-step cooking instructions, and serving suggestions.

this Recipe

What Are Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes?

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are the perfect marriage of two beloved comfort foods: the grilled cheese sandwich and the classic Sloppy Joe. Sloppy Joes are typically made with ground beef cooked in a tangy, sweet tomato-based sauce and served on a soft bun. Grilled cheese, on the other hand, is known for its crispy, buttery bread and gooey melted cheese. When you combine these two, you get a sandwich that’s rich, cheesy, savory, and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients List for Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for sautéing

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

• 8 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough work well)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack)
• 4 tablespoon butter, softened for spreading on the bread

Substitutions and Variations

There’s plenty of room for customization in this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or available ingredients.

• Ground Meat: While ground beef is traditional, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can be used.
• Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice for grilled cheese, but you can mix it up with American cheese, mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Bread: You can swap regular white bread for whole wheat, sourdough, or even brioche for extra flavor. For a lower-carb option, you could try using lettuce wraps, though it won’t be quite the same!
• Add-ins: Want more flavor or texture? Add sautéed mushrooms, pickles, or jalapeños to the Sloppy Joe filling, or sprinkle some parmesan on the bread for an extra crispy exterior.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To make Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes, you’ll first prepare the Sloppy Joe filling and then assemble the sandwiches. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:
   • While the filling is cooking, preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
   • Butter one side of each slice of bread generously. Place the bread, butter-side down, in the skillet.
   • Add a generous handful of shredded cheese on top of each slice, ensuring it covers the bread evenly.
   • Once the cheese begins to melt slightly, spoon a generous amount of Sloppy Joe filling onto half of the bread slices.
   • Top the filling with another slice of bread, butter-side up, creating a sandwich.
   • Press down lightly with a spatula and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
3. Assemble and Serve:
   • Once both sides are crispy and golden, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute before slicing in half. Serve hot, with extra napkins on hand for the inevitable mess!

How to Cook Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet, and sauté onions and peppers until soft. Add garlic for extra flavor.
2. Brown the Meat: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and fully cooked through.
3. Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce, paste, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, mustard, and seasonings. Simmer until the mixture thickens.
4. Prepare the Sandwiches: Butter the bread, top with cheese, and add the filling to one side before closing the sandwich.
5. Cook the Sandwiches: Toast on both sides until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the Sandwich: It’s tempting to pile on the filling, but too much will make your sandwich soggy and difficult to eat. Use a moderate amount for balance.
• Burning the Bread: Buttering the bread evenly and cooking on medium heat is key to achieving a golden-brown crust without burning the bread.
• Cheese Not Melting: If the cheese isn’t melting quickly enough, cover the skillet for a minute to help trap the heat and speed up the melting process.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are best enjoyed fresh and hot, with the cheese still gooey and the bread crisp. Serve them with simple sides that complement the rich flavors of the sandwich.

How to Serve Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

• Sides: A crisp green salad, potato chips, or French fries are excellent side dishes. You can also serve them with pickles or coleslaw for added crunch.
• Dips: Consider offering a bowl of tomato soup or a side of ketchup for dipping, which enhances the comfort food vibe.

Presentation Ideas for Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

• Cut in Halves: Slice the sandwich diagonally for a classic presentation that shows off the melted cheese and filling.
• Serve with Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color, and serve with pickles on the side.
• Skillet to Table: If you’re serving multiple people, consider presenting the sandwiches on a cast-iron skillet or wooden board to give it a rustic, family-style feel.

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joe Recipe Tips

• Pre-shredded Cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese can save time, but it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture.
• Make-Ahead: The Sloppy Joe filling can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months. Simply reheat before assembling the sandwiches.
• Crispier Sandwiches: For an extra crispy exterior, try using mayonnaise instead of butter to spread on the bread before grilling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes in advance?

Yes! The Sloppy Joe filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. When ready to serve, simply reheat the filling and assemble the sandwiches.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Any melty cheese like American, mozzarella, or pepper jack will work. Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.

How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?

Make sure your Sloppy Joe filling is not too liquidy, as this can lead to soggy sandwiches. Cook the filling until it thickens to the right consistency.

Are there vegetarian options for Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes?

Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat or lentils as a substitute for the beef to make this dish vegetarian.

Conclusion

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are the ultimate mashup of two classic comfort foods, perfect for satisfying your cravings for both cheese and savory meat. With the crispy, buttery bread, gooey cheese, and rich Sloppy Joe filling, this sandwich is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best of both worlds in one delicious sandwich!

Print