Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- ½ small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds a smoky flavor)
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices Texas toast or thick sandwich bread
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or slices of cheddar/American cheese)
- 8-10 slices dill pickles (or more, depending on preference)
Instructions
1. Make the Sloppy Joe Filling
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart (about 5 minutes).
- Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (2 minutes).
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Let simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place 4 slices (butter-side down) on a clean surface.
- Add ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or 2 slices) on each bread slice.
- Spoon a generous portion of Sloppy Joe filling over the cheese.
- Layer with pickle slices.
- Add another layer of cheese on top of the pickles.
- Top with the remaining bread slices (butter-side up).
3. Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Place sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula.
- Flip carefully and cook until golden brown and crispy, with cheese fully melted.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before slicing.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.
- Pair with extra pickles, coleslaw, or a side of crispy fries!
Notes
Tips for the Best Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
✅ Use thick bread – Texas toast or sourdough works best for crispy, sturdy sandwiches.
✅ Low & slow grilling – Cooking over medium-low heat ensures perfectly melted cheese without burning the bread.
✅ Don’t skimp on pickles! – The tanginess balances the rich flavors.
✅ Extra saucy? – Add a little more Sloppy Joe sauce before serving.
✅ For a spicy kick – Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce!