Take two classic comfort foods and turn them into a game-changing sandwich: Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese. This indulgent recipe combines the tangy, savory filling of a Sloppy Joe with golden, crispy grilled cheese perfection. It’s gooey, meaty, and ideal for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings.
Popular across the United States and gaining attention in the United Kingdom and Canada, this mashup is a crowd-pleaser that satisfies cravings with every bite.
What Is a Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese?
A Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese is essentially:
A traditional Sloppy Joe filling (ground beef, onions, tomato sauce, and seasonings)
Sandwiched between slices of buttery bread with melted cheese
Pan-grilled until crisp and golden
The combination of tangy Sloppy Joe sauce with melty cheese creates a gooey, savory delight that’s both comforting and fun to eat.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Grilled Cheese Sandwich:
8 slices of bread (white, sourdough, or whole wheat)
4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
2 tablespoons butter
Optional toppings: pickles, jalapeños, or extra shredded cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Sloppy Joe Filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
Butter one side of each slice of bread.
Place cheese on the non-buttered side of two slices.
Spoon a generous amount of Sloppy Joe filling over the cheese.
Top with another slice of cheese and the second slice of bread, buttered side out.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwich
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Cook sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cut diagonally and serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Don’t overfill: Too much Sloppy Joe can spill and make the sandwich soggy.
Use sturdy bread: Sourdough or Texas toast holds up better to the filling.
Press lightly: Helps melt the cheese and crisp the bread evenly.
Optional extras: Add pickles, jalapeños, or extra cheese for more flavor.
Variations to Try
🥓 Bacon Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese
Add crispy bacon strips inside the sandwich for a smoky twist.
🌶️ Spicy Sloppy Joe
Mix in sriracha or cayenne pepper to the Sloppy Joe filling.
🧀 Triple Cheese
Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone for extra gooeyness.
🥪 Slider Version
Make smaller sandwiches for parties or kids’ lunches.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese with:
Crispy fries or sweet potato fries
Coleslaw or pickled vegetables
Tomato soup (classic grilled cheese combo)
A side salad for a balanced meal
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave before assembling.
Do not pre-make fully assembled: Bread may become soggy.
Why It’s So Popular
This mashup works because it combines two comfort food classics:
The tangy, savory Sloppy Joe filling
The crispy, melty, buttery goodness of a grilled cheese
The result is a satisfying, flavor-packed sandwich that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Final Thoughts
Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese is a fun and indulgent twist on two beloved classics. It’s gooey, flavorful, and easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Perfect for casual dinners, game nights, or any time you want a comforting, hearty sandwich, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of bold, cheesy flavors. 🥪🧀🌟