Easy Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Hug
There’s something about the golden, buttery crunch of grilled cheese meeting the saucy, messy joy of a sloppy joe that feels like a warm hug on a chaotic weeknight. I first stumbled upon this magical mashup when my pantry was nearly bare, and my kids were begging for something “fun” (read: not another bowl of soup). A can of Manwich, some leftover hamburger buns, and a block of cheddar later—this accidental masterpiece was born. Now, it’s our go-to when comfort is non-negotiable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter twist)—because every great sloppy joe starts with a sizzling foundation.
- 1 can (15 oz) Manwich sauce (or homemade sloppy joe sauce if you’re feeling fancy).
- 4 hamburger buns—soft and squishy, the better to soak up all that saucy goodness.
- 8 slices of American cheese (yes, two per sandwich—trust me, it’s worth it).
- 2 tbsp butter, softened—for that irresistible golden crisp.
- 1 small onion, diced (optional, but adds a sweet depth).
- Pinch of garlic powder—because everything’s better with garlic.
Note: If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar on top of the Manwich before grilling adds a delightful gooey surprise!
Let’s Get Cooking
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (and onion, if using) until no pink remains. Drain any excess grease—unless you’re embracing the indulgence, in which case, carry on.
- Simmer the sauce: Stir in the Manwich and garlic powder, letting it bubble gently for 5 minutes. The aroma will have everyone hovering in the kitchen—fair warning.
- Butter up: Spread softened butter on the outside of each bun (this is the secret to grill marks and that perfect crunch).
- Layer with love: On the unbuttered side of each bun bottom, place a slice of cheese, a generous scoop of sloppy joe mix, another slice of cheese (yes, really), and the bun top.
Pro tip: Press the sandwiches lightly with your spatula while grilling—this helps melt the cheese into every nook and cranny.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes
This recipe is wonderfully forgiving, but these little tricks will take it from good to can’t-stop-eating-it greatness:
- Cheese matters: While American melts beautifully, try mixing in sharp cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor
- Bread basics: Texas toast or brioche buns make exceptional vehicles for all that cheesy goodness
- Drain the grease: After browning your beef, drain excess fat to prevent soggy sandwiches
- Low and slow: Let the meat mixture simmer for at least 15 minutes to develop deeper flavors
Delicious Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian version: Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles
- Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture
- Breakfast twist: Serve with a fried egg on top for an incredible brunch option
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite GF bread and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is GF
The Perfect Sides for Your Sloppy Joes
This hearty sandwich deserves equally comforting companions:
- Crispy seasoned fries or tater tots
- A simple green salad with ranch dressing
- Classic dill pickles for that perfect tangy crunch
- Sweet potato fries for a delicious contrast
- Homemade coleslaw to cut through the richness
Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers
While best enjoyed fresh, you can absolutely save some for later:
- Storage: Keep meat mixture and bread separate in airtight containers for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm the meat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying
- Freezing: The meat mixture freezes well for up to 2 months – thaw overnight before reheating
- Pro tip: Assemble sandwiches fresh each time for the best texture
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! The meat mixture actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld. Just reheat gently before serving.
What’s the best cheese for melting?
American cheese melts the creamiest, but combining it with mozzarella or mild cheddar gives you both great melt and flavor.
How can I make this less messy to eat?
Try lightly toasting the bread before assembling, and don’t overfill the sandwiches. A fork and knife are perfectly acceptable tools here!
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Definitely! Ground turkey works beautifully – just add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan as it’s leaner than beef.
Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
There’s something magical about the combination of melty cheese, savory meat, and buttery bread that just feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids after soccer practice, hosting a casual game night with friends, or just craving some good old-fashioned comfort food, these Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes deliver every time. Don’t be surprised if this becomes one of those recipes your family requests again and again – it’s that kind of special. Now go grab that spatula and get ready for some seriously satisfying eats!
Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes
Description
A delicious twist on classic sloppy joes with melty grilled cheese.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices bread
- 8 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and stir in ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Place a slice of cheese on the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices.
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture over the cheese, then top with another slice of cheese and the remaining bread slices (buttered side out).
- Grill sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
