Introduction
This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Burger combines the bold, tangy flavors of Sloppy Joes with the juiciness of a classic cheeseburger, creating an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day. Featuring seasoned ground beef in a rich, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce, topped with melted cheese and served on a soft burger bun, this burger is messy, cheesy, and downright delicious!
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick and Easy – Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔ Rich, Tangy, and Cheesy – A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and melty goodness.
✔ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults will love this messy burger!
✔ Customizable – Serve with extra toppings for a personalized touch.
-Ingredients
For the Meat Filling
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
For Assembly
4 burger buns
4 slices cheddar or American cheese
Butter, for toasting buns
Pickles, lettuce, or jalapeños (optional toppings)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked.
-2. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Sauce
1. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
2. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
3. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
-3. Toast the Buns
1. Spread butter on the inside of each burger bun.
2. Toast on a skillet or griddle for 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.
-4. Assemble the Burgers
1. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
2. Place a slice of cheese over the hot meat to let it melt.
3. Add pickles, lettuce, or jalapeños, if desired.
4. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
-Serving Suggestions
With Crispy French Fries – Classic pairing for a diner-style meal.
With Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch.
With Onion Rings – Perfect for extra crispiness.
With a Fried Egg – For a next-level burger experience.
-Tips for the Best Sloppy Joe Burgers
✅ Use Lean Ground Beef – Prevents the burgers from becoming too greasy.
✅ Toast the Buns – Adds flavor and keeps them from getting soggy.
✅ Let the Sauce Thicken – A thicker sauce sticks better to the bun.
✅ Melt the Cheese Properly – Place cheese on top while the beef is still hot for maximum meltiness.
-Variations to Try
Spicy Sloppy Joe Burger – Add hot sauce or jalapeños for heat.
BBQ Sloppy Joe Burger – Replace tomato sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Turkey Sloppy Joes – Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
Loaded Sloppy Joes – Top with crispy bacon or caramelized onions.
-Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze the meat filling for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
-The Story Behind This Recipe
Sloppy Joes have been a classic American comfort food for decades, often served in school cafeterias and home kitchens. By turning them into cheesy burgers, this recipe combines the richness of a burger with the tangy, sweet flavors of traditional Sloppy Joes—a true upgrade to an old-school favorite!
-Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Burger is the ultimate messy, delicious comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With savory beef, a rich sauce, and melted cheese on a toasted bun, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic Sloppy Joe with a cheesy, burger-style twist!