This Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese recipe is a hearty fusion of two comfort food favorites, combining the saucy richness of Sloppy Joes with the crispy, cheesy delight of grilled cheese.
Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or nostalgic weekend lunches, it’s packed with savory flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Flavorful Staples for Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Lean ground beef – The meaty foundation of the filling, bringing rich, savory depth to every sandwich.
Chopped onion – Adds mild sweetness and aromatic balance to the hearty beef.
Green pepper – Offers a touch of freshness and a subtle crunch to contrast the gooey filling.
Ketchup – The tangy-sweet binder that transforms cooked beef into classic Sloppy Joe magic.
Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the umami flavor with a savory, slightly tangy note.
Ground mustard & garlic powder – Elevate the flavor with a touch of spice and earthy warmth.
Cayenne pepper – Provides a gentle kick of heat without overpowering.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into creamy ribbons, binding the sandwich and adding cheesy comfort.
Texas toast or thick white bread – Sturdy slices that crisp beautifully and hold the generous filling.
Butter – Ensures a golden, crunchy crust with rich, toasted flavor.
Making the Perfect Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Start by browning the beef and softening the onions and peppers in a skillet.
Stir in the ketchup, spices, and Worcestershire sauce, letting the mixture simmer into a thick, savory filling.
Assemble each sandwich with cheddar and the beef mix between two slices of bread.
Grill with butter until golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted.
Tips to Elevate Your Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Use freshly shredded cheddar for superior melting and flavor.
Let the filling cool slightly before assembling to avoid soggy bread.
For a bolder bite, swap in pepper jack or add sliced pickles inside.
Toasting the bread slightly before assembling helps maintain structure.
Storing Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese Leftovers
Store assembled but ungrilled sandwiches in the fridge for up to 24 hours, or keep cooked ones wrapped tightly for up to 3 days.
Reheat on a skillet over low heat to regain crispiness, or in an oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Avoid microwaving, as it softens the bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter option. Just adjust the seasoning slightly for richness.
What bread works best besides Texas toast?
Use any thick-cut, sturdy bread like sourdough, Italian, or brioche for the best structure and flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture.
Is it freezer-friendly?
The sloppy joe filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before assembling your grilled cheese.
Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
- 8 slices Texas toast or hearty white bread
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon during cooking. Once it begins to crumble, incorporate the chopped onion and green pepper. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables have softened.
- Incorporate ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper into the pan. Stir until well blended and allow the mixture to simmer over medium-low heat for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- To assemble, layer approximately 1/4 cup shredded cheddar over one slice of bread. Spoon a generous portion of the sloppy joe mixture over the cheese, then cap with another slice of bread.
- Preheat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat. Melt 1/2 tablespoon of butter, then set the sandwich in the pan. Grill until the underside is golden brown, lift with a spatula, add another 1/2 tablespoon butter, and flip. Continue to cook until the second side is equally golden and the cheese is thoroughly melted.