These Cheesy Sloppy Joe Buns combine juicy, savory beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese inside soft, toasted buns—a fun twist on a classic comfort food! Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prep.
-1. History of Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes have been an American classic since the 1930s, originating as a budget-friendly meal made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and seasonings. While traditionally served on hamburger buns, this recipe bakes the mixture inside bread rolls, creating a crispy, cheesy, and mess-free experience.
-2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔️ Kid-Friendly – A fun, delicious meal the whole family will love.
✔️ Perfect for Parties – Great for game nights, BBQs, or potlucks.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble and bake when ready.
-3. Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the Buns & Toppings:
8 small bread rolls (dinner rolls, brioche, or slider buns)
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
-4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Stir in onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
-Step 2: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
1. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the skillet.
2. Stir well and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
-Step 3: Prepare the Bread Rolls
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off the bread rolls and hollow out the centers, creating space for the filling.
3. Brush the inside of the rolls with melted butter and bake for 5 minutes to crisp up slightly.
-Step 4: Assemble & Bake
1. Fill each hollowed-out roll with a generous portion of Sloppy Joe mixture.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
3. Place the filled buns on a baking tray and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
1. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
2. Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete meal!
-5. Tips for Perfect Sloppy Joe Buns
✔️ Toast the bread first – This prevents sogginess and adds a nice crunch.
✔️ Use high-quality beef – 80/20 ground beef gives the best flavor.
✔️ Let the sauce simmer – This allows the flavors to meld together.
✔️ Experiment with cheese – Try pepper jack, provolone, or Swiss for a unique twist!
-6. Fun Variations
️ Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños or mix hot sauce into the beef.
Chicken Sloppy Joes – Use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Sloppy Joes – Swap beef for lentils or sautéed mushrooms.
Bacon Upgrade – Add crispy bacon bits for extra smoky flavor.
-7. Serving Suggestions
Pair these Cheesy Sloppy Joe Buns with:
✔️ Sweet Potato Fries
✔️ Coleslaw
✔️ Onion Rings
✔️ Pickles & Chips
✔️ Side Salad
-8. Storage & Reheating
Storage: Keep leftover buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
❄️ Freezing: Store assembled, unbaked buns in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen.
-9. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought Sloppy Joe sauce?
Yes! If short on time, use canned Sloppy Joe mix, but homemade tastes better.
2. What’s the best bread for this recipe?
Brioche buns, dinner rolls, or sandwich hoagies work best!
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the buns, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
-10. Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Sloppy Joe Buns are an easy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing meal—perfect for weeknights, game days, or parties. Serve them up hot and fresh with your favorite sides, and enjoy the gooey, savory goodness in every bite!