When enjoying the messy goodness of a sloppy joe grilled cheese, the right pairings can take your meal to the next level. Pickles, whether dill or bread-and-butter, are a perfect choice, offering a zesty crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and savory meat.
For a satisfying texture contrast, serve the sandwich with crunchy chips—kettle-cooked varieties are ideal for an extra crunch that complements the sandwich's softness. Coleslaw is another great side, with its cool, creamy texture providing a refreshing balance to the savory flavors of the sloppy joe grilled cheese.
For a heartier option, creamy potato salad works wonderfully, offering a filling and satisfying side that rounds out the meal perfectly. These pairings bring variety and balance, making for a deliciously complete dining experience.
At its core, a sloppy joe grilled cheese is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a messy, beefy filling slathered between slices of cheese and sandwiched in golden, buttery bread. The ground beef is typically seasoned with sauces, onions, and spices to create a satisfying mixture, while every bite is blanketed in unyielding, stretchy cheese.
Here’s why I believe this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table:
1. Combination of Textures
This dish brings together an irresistible contrast—a crunchy, crisp exterior with an ooey-gooey interior. You can savor the satisfying crunch of the bread and revel in the warmth of melted cheese.
2. Flavor Explosion
Each bite is a delight. The savory seasoning of the beef mingles with the rich flavor of butter and cheese. It creates a party of flavors that captures the essence of comfort food.
3. Quick and Easy
What I love most is how little time it takes. You can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
4. Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike find this dish appealing. It’s a surefire hit at mealtime, and it makes for excellent leftovers.
Before gathering your ingredients, take a moment and get your kitchen ready. For this recipe, you’ll need:
Ready to dive into this adventure? Here’s a detailed guide:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef. Break it apart into chunks and let it brown.
Once it's nearly cooked through, toss in the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Now, stir in the Dijon mustard, ketchup, soy sauce, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Give it a good mix to combine everything. Let it cook on low heat for about 10 minutes until thickened. Set it aside to cool slightly.
While the filling cools, we're on to the fun part. Grab your slices of toasted sourdough. Layer ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on four slices. Top them with the sloppy joe mixture. Don’t skimp; it should be heaping. Finish off with another ½ cup of cheese on top of the meat. Finally, cover those with the other four slices of bread.
In a clean skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Once the butter is bubbling, carefully place two sandwiches in the pan. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
Then, flip them over and add the remaining butter to the pan. Grill the other side until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Repeat with the second batch of sandwiches.
Cut them in half and serve immediately.
To achieve the ultimate sloppy joe grilled cheese experience, keep these tips in mind:
If you happen to have some leftovers, don’t fret! You can easily store them. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about three days. To reheat, pop them in the skillet on low until heated through.
What to serve alongside? Consider these tasty options:
1. Tomato Soup
Classic and warm, it dips beautifully. It balances the richness of the sandwich.
2. Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy, salty, and a bit sweet. They add a comforting crunch that is hard to resist.
3. Garden Salad
A light salad provides a refreshing contrast. Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette help brighten the meal.
4. Fried Pickles
For a little crunch, fried pickles add an extra layer of delightful flavor. A great snack that pairs well with this dish.
If you find yourself missing an item or two, these substitutes can save the day:
1. Ground Turkey or Chicken
Swap the beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
2. Cheese Variety
No cheddar? Use provolone or even a non-dairy cheese alternative if you prefer.
3. Ketchup Alternatives
Don’t have ketchup? Try BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
4. Sourdough Alternatives
If sourdough is out of reach, any hearty bread will do. Consider ciabatta or whole-grain bread.
There you have it! The sloppy joe grilled cheese is a marriage of flavors and textures that brings joy with every bite. It’s simple, quick, and above all, delicious. Whether you're making it for yourself or sharing it with friends, this dish satisfies every craving.
So fire up your skillet, gather your ingredients, and dive into the comfort of this delightful creation. Enjoy the unique experience, and don’t forget to share some leftovers (or not!) with the loved ones you care about. Trust me; they’ll be coming back for seconds!
Ah, the sloppy joe grilled cheese. This sandwich is a warm hug to the soul after a long day. It marries two iconic comfort foods—the sloppy joe and grilled cheese—into one glorious creation. Imagine biting into a crispy, buttery exterior that gives way to a rich filling of savory ground beef, tangy sauces, and gooey cheese. It's pure bliss.
Maybe you’ve enjoyed a sloppy joe as a kid, or perhaps you’ve marveled at grilled cheese as an adult. This combination channels nostalgia and indulgence. And the best part? It’s simple to make. Trust me, once you try this, your taste buds will sing.
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef. Break it apart into chunks and let it brown.
Once it's nearly cooked through, toss in the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Now, stir in the Dijon mustard, ketchup, soy sauce, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Give it a good mix to combine everything. Let it cook on low heat for about 10 minutes until thickened. Set it aside to cool slightly.
While the filling cools, we're on to the fun part. Grab your slices of toasted sourdough. Layer ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on four slices. Top them with the sloppy joe mixture. Don’t skimp; it should be heaping. Finish off with another ½ cup of cheese on top of the meat. Finally, cover those with the other four slices of bread.
In a clean skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Once the butter is bubbling, carefully place two sandwiches in the pan. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
Then, flip them over and add the remaining butter to the pan. Grill the other side until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Repeat with the second batch of sandwiches.
Cut them in half and serve immediately.
Servings 2
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Irene Adkins, a registered dietitian and creator of Delicious Meal Ideas. Growing up in Syracuse, NY, I developed a passion for simple, flavorful cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. Through my blog, I share easy, healthy recipes that bring joy to everyday meals, making home cooking fun and accessible for everyone.