Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mash-up—juicy, savory beef in a rich sloppy joe sauce, sandwiched between two buttery grilled cheese layers. This fun and filling twist on two classic favorites delivers melty cheese, crispy bread, and bold, saucy flavor in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or when you’re craving something hearty and deliciously messy.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefonion (chopped)garlic (minced)ketchupmustardbrown sugarsaltpepperWorcestershire saucebutter (for grilling)sliced sandwich bread (white or sourdough)sliced cheddar cheese or American cheese

directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain excess grease.

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, then stir in ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors combine. Remove from heat.

Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.

Add a slice of cheese, spoon some sloppy joe mixture over it, top with another slice of cheese and a second piece of bread, butter-side up.

Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted.

Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.Serving size: 1 sandwichPreparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use pepper jack, Swiss, or mozzarella for different cheesy flavors.

Add pickles or jalapeños inside for extra zing.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat.

Make it open-faced with just one slice of bread and broil the top.

Serve with a fried egg on top for a breakfast twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sloppy joe meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat meat on the stovetop or microwave before assembling sandwiches.Reheat grilled sandwiches in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness—avoid microwaving to keep the bread from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the sloppy joe filling in advance and assemble the sandwiches fresh.

What’s the best bread for grilling?

White, sourdough, or Texas toast work well—anything sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Can I freeze the meat mixture?

Yes, freeze cooked sloppy joe filling for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before using.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely—cheesy, savory, and fun to eat!

Can I make these in the oven?

Yes, bake assembled sandwiches at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Can I use shredded cheese?

Yes, but sliced cheese melts more evenly and holds the sandwich together better.

What sides go well with this?

Potato chips, fries, coleslaw, or tomato soup are great pairings.

How do I keep the bread from burning?

Cook on medium heat and press gently to ensure even browning.

Can I make it spicier?

Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the filling, or use spicy cheese.

Can I use leftover sloppy joes for this?

Yes, it’s a great way to repurpose leftovers!

Conclusion

Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes are a bold, cheesy upgrade to two nostalgic favorites, combining melty comfort with saucy, meaty goodness. Easy to make and always a hit, they’re the perfect solution for busy nights or anytime you want to indulge in something warm, gooey, and absolutely satisfying. Make a batch and watch them disappear fast!

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