The Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe is a true classic elevated with a tangy chili sauce and the rich sharpness of cheddar cheese. This hearty sandwich combines ground beef cooked to perfection with a vibrant mixture of spices, sweet and tangy elements, and vibrant chopped vegetables all piled high on toasted buns. It’s the perfect comfort food for a casual dinner or a game day treat. You’ll love how the bold flavors marry beautifully in every messy, satisfying bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet thoughtfully balanced ingredients makes this Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe so approachable and delicious. Each element adds an essential layer of flavor, texture, and color that transforms the sandwich into a crowd-pleaser.
- 675 g lean ground beef: The hearty base providing savory richness and protein.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped: Brings a subtle crunch and fresh color.
- 15 ml chili powder: Infuses a smoky, mildly spicy flavor.
- 5 ml dry mustard powder: Adds a tangy sharpness that brightens the mix.
- 30 ml olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables and meat evenly.
- 60 ml tomato paste: Concentrated tomato goodness for a rich base.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Provides aromatic pungency.
- 250 ml chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and adds subtle savoriness.
- 125 ml chili sauce: The star ingredient giving the dish its signature sweet and tangy punch.
- 30 ml white vinegar: Balances sweetness with acidity.
- 30 ml brown sugar: Adds warmth and a gentle sweetness.
- 15 ml Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To season and perfect the taste.
- 4 large hamburger buns: Toasted for a sturdy and soft holder.
- 375 ml sharp yellow cheddar, shredded: Melts over the sloppy joe for gooey indulgence.
How to Make Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Vegetables
To start this Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and red bell pepper along with the chili powder and dry mustard. Cook everything together until the beef is browned and the vegetables soften, stirring often to break up the meat and mix the spices evenly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors as they develop.
Step 2: Develop the Flavor Base
Next, stir in the tomato paste and finely chopped garlic, cooking for about a minute. This step is crucial because it helps release the natural sweetness and complexity in the tomato paste while infusing the dish with garlicky warmth. Be sure to keep stirring so nothing sticks to the pan or burns.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, chili sauce, white vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the sloppy joe mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, giving it time to thicken and let those bold flavors meld beautifully. Taste at the end and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns and Cheese
Meanwhile, toast your hamburger buns until they’re lightly golden and crisp on the edges. This adds a lovely texture contrast and prevents the buns from becoming soggy once topped. Once toasted, spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe meat mixture onto each bun, then generously sprinkle with shredded sharp cheddar. The heat from the meat will melt the cheese, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few thoughtful garnishes takes this Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe to the next level. Try fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. A few slices of pickles or jalapeños bring bright acidity or a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the richness.
Side Dishes
This sandwich is a full meal on its own but goes perfectly with classic sides like crispy French fries, crunchy coleslaw, or even a light salad for some balance. For a comforting touch, creamy mashed potatoes or baked beans complement the smoky, tangy flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling creative? Serve the sloppy joe filling atop baked potatoes or stuffed inside bell peppers for a fun twist. You can also turn it into sliders for parties or use different cheese varieties like pepper jack or smoked gouda to mix up the flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sloppy joe mixture, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more after sitting, making for an even tastier quick meal the next day.
Freezing
This Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe freezes wonderfully. Cool the mixture completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, ideal for meal prepping or busy weeknights.
Reheating
Reheat leftover sloppy joe in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. For cheesy goodness, add fresh shredded cheddar on top after reheating and cover briefly to let it melt.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner option and still taste great with this chili sauce and cheddar combination. Just be sure to brown it well for maximum flavor.
Is the chili sauce spicy?
Most store-bought chili sauces have a mild sweetness with a hint of spice, so this recipe is not overwhelmingly hot. You can always add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer more heat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use gluten-free hamburger buns or serve the sloppy joe mixture over lettuce wraps or gluten-free bread to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive folks.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Sharp yellow cheddar is classic, but pepper jack adds a nice spicy kick. Smoked gouda or even a mild mozzarella can also melt beautifully and complement the flavors well.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To amp up the spice, increase the chili powder, add cayenne pepper, or include diced jalapeños or hot sauce when cooking the meat mixture. Just adjust to your preferred heat level!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe enough if you want a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that’s wonderfully easy to prepare. Its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory elements with melty cheese makes it a total winner for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be coming back for seconds in no time!
Print
Sloppy Joe with Chili Sauce and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Sloppy Joe recipe featuring lean ground beef simmered in a flavorful sauce of tomato paste, chili powder, and spices, served on toasted hamburger buns and topped with sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 675 g (1 1/2 lb) lean ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Seasonings and Sauce
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) chili powder
- 5 ml (1 tsp) dry mustard
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) tomato paste
- 250 ml (1 cup) chicken broth
- 125 ml (1/2 cup) chili sauce
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) white vinegar
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) brown sugar
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Final Assembly
- 4 large hamburger buns
- 375 ml (1 1/2 cups) sharp yellow cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Brown the meat and vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef, finely chopped onion, red bell pepper, chili powder, and dry mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Add tomato paste and garlic: Stir in the tomato paste and finely chopped garlic. Continue cooking for 1 minute, stirring constantly to blend the flavors and prevent burning.
- Simmer the sauce: Add the chicken broth, chili sauce, white vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Toast the buns: While the meat mixture simmers, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Split the hamburger buns and toast them until lightly browned and crisp.
- Assemble and serve: Spoon the sloppy joe meat mixture onto the toasted buns. Top each with a generous handful of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Use whole wheat buns for a healthier twist.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter option.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the simmering mixture to cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
