If you love classic Sloppy Joes but want something with a fresh, Mediterranean twist, you're in for a treat! Greek Sloppy Joes take all the saucy, savory goodness of the traditional sandwich and infuse it with vibrant Greek flavors like feta cheese, oregano, and tangy yogurt sauce. It’s the ultimate mash-up of bold comfort food and light, zesty Mediterranean cuisine. The best part? This recipe is ridiculously easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner.
Here’s everything you need to know to whip up these irresistible Greek-inspired sandwiches.
Ingredients
For the Greek Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground lamb (or ground beef for a milder flavor)
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a warm Greek flavor)
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned works great!)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 to 6 brioche or hamburger buns (or pita bread for an extra Greek flair)
- Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Sliced cucumbers
- Chopped tomatoes
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the red onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Season and Build the Sauce
Sprinkle the oregano, cumin, and cinnamon (if using) over the meat mixture. Stir well to coat everything in the spices. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, red wine vinegar, and honey. Simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Add the Feta
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the crumbled feta cheese. This will add creaminess and the perfect tangy kick to the filling.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sloppy Joes
Lightly toast the buns or pita bread for extra texture. Spread a generous layer of tzatziki sauce on each side of the bun. Scoop the Greek Sloppy Joe filling onto the bottom half, then top with sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Finish with the top bun and enjoy!
Tips for Serving
- Mess-Free Eating: Sloppy Joes are supposed to be messy, but you can serve the meat mixture over rice or couscous if you want a neater option.
- Family-Style Fun: Serve the filling and toppings buffet-style and let everyone customize their own sandwich.
Variations to Try
- Veggie Version: Swap out the ground meat for lentils or crumbled tempeh to create a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Cheese Swap: Can’t find feta? Crumbled goat cheese works wonderfully in this recipe.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the filling in lettuce cups or over a bed of greens for a lighter alternative.
Perfect Pairings
To round out your Greek Sloppy Joes meal, serve them with a side of crispy oven-baked Greek-style fries seasoned with oregano, lemon zest, and garlic. A cucumber and tomato salad with a drizzle of olive oil and red wine vinegar will also keep things fresh and balanced. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling lemonade pairs beautifully.
Greek Sloppy Joes are a crowd-pleaser with a twist, blending the bold, comforting flavors of a classic with the bright, fresh taste of the Mediterranean. Whether you're feeding the family or sharing dinner with friends, this easy recipe is sure to steal the spotlight. Happy cooking (and eating)!
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