If you're looking for an easy dinner recipe that's packed with flavor, look no further than Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes. This comfort food classic takes everything you love about a hearty chili and combines it with the simplicity of a sloppy joe. The result? A mouthwatering, cheesy, and hearty meal that's sure to become a new family favorite.
Whether you're feeding a crowd or just whipping up a quick dinner for a busy weeknight, this recipe is as easy as it gets. Plus, it’s super versatile! Serve it on classic burger buns, over crispy fries, or even a baked potato. Let's dig into this delicious dish!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these unforgettable Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes:
For the meat filling
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For topping and assembly
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 4-6 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, green onions
Instructions
Making these Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes:
Step 1: Cook the beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the veggies
- Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the sauce
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the veggies. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and all the seasonings (chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper). Mix everything well.
Step 4: Simmer
- Lower the heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer for 10–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust the seasonings to your taste. The sauce should thicken slightly, coating the meat in a delicious, chili-inspired glaze.
Step 5: Add the cheese
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese right into the skillet and stir until it melts into the saucy meat mixture. Reserve the remaining cheese for garnish.
Step 6: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
- Spoon the saucy meat mixture onto the bottom halves of your hamburger buns. Sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded cheese and any optional toppings like sliced jalapeños or green onions. Add the bun tops and serve while warm!
Tips for Customizing Your Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce while cooking the meat to give it an extra kick.
- Go vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Try different cheeses: Experiment with pepper jack, mozzarella, or a smoky gouda for a unique twist.
- Switch up the base: Don’t feel limited to hamburger buns! Serve this over tortilla chips for chili cheese nachos, or on a bed of fluffy rice for a less messy option.
- Healthier swaps: Use whole-grain buns and ground turkey to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Ideas
Pair your Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes with classic sides like crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even a cup of coleslaw for balance. Want to make it extra special? Serve it with a side of garlic butter corn on the cob or roasted sweet potato wedges for a side dish upgrade.
A Family-Friendly Comfort Food
Chili Cheese Sloppy Joes are the perfect mashup of two comfort food favorites. They’re saucy, cheesy, and downright satisfying. The best part? This easy dinner recipe takes minutes to prepare, making it ideal for even the busiest nights. Gather your family around the table, grab some napkins (you’ll need them), and dig in!
No matter how you serve them, these sloppy joes are sure to make it into your meal rotation. Give them a try and see why they’re destined to be a family favorite!
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