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This Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese recipe brings together the best of hearty comfort food and classic childhood favorites for a sandwich that impresses everyone at the table. It is perfectly melty loaded with savory meat and will have both kids and adults lined up in the kitchen the minute the skillet gets hot.
The first time I made this it became an instant favorite for my family. Now whenever I have leftover Sloppy Joe filling it becomes our go to dinner the next day
Ingredients
- Butter: choose quality real butter for extra golden crispness
- White bread: thick sliced sandwich bread works best keeping the filling in place
- Prepared Sloppy Joe meat mixture: homemade or use leftover for speedier dinners
- American cheese: classic creamy meltability for that nostalgic grilled cheese pull
- Pick your cheese: slices that are fresh and pliable for best results
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep the Bread:
- Spread a generous layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread making sure to coat every corner for a crisp golden finish
- Layer the First Side:
- Place one slice of bread buttered side down on a preheated skillet over medium heat Let it warm for a few seconds to get that initial crunch
- Add Cheese and Sloppy Joe Filling:
- Lay a slice of American cheese onto the bread Allow it to slightly melt before adding about one sixth of your Sloppy Joe meat mixture Spread it evenly right to the edges
- Top and Finish Building:
- Add another slice of cheese over the meat mixture That double layer keeps the filling from spilling out Top with another slice of bread this time butter side up
- Grill the Sandwich:
- Let the sandwich cook undisturbed three to four minutes until the bottom is deeply golden Gently press with a spatula if you like it a little crispier
- Flip and Grill Second Side:
- With care flip the sandwich over Continue cooking until the second side turns golden and the cheese is completely melted
- Rest and Slice:
- Transfer the finished sandwich to a cutting board Let rest for a minute Slice in half to let the cheese reveal its gooey center
- Repeat and Serve:
- Start the process again for the remaining sandwiches Serve while hot to enjoy maximum melt
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Every time I make this I look forward to how the cheesy bread meshes with the rich meat filling It brings back memories of summer cookouts and cozy snowy nights when we needed a warm delicious meal together
Storage Tips
Wrap any leftover sandwiches in foil or an airtight container and refrigerate They reheat well on a warm skillet but I avoid microwaving since it softens the bread too much
Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground turkey or even lentils for a lighter or vegetarian twist Sourdough or Italian bread adds extra bite If you love a zip add a slice of pepperjack cheese or top with pickled jalapenos before grilling
Serving Suggestions
Pair with tomato soup or a crisp salad for a complete meal I sometimes cut each sandwich into quarters for party appetizers or game day snacks
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A Little History
Sloppy Joes date back to the early twentieth century as a quick budget friendly meal Grilled cheese sandwiches became popular during the Great Depression Together these classics create the ultimate American comfort food mashup
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
White, French, or Italian bread all toast beautifully and hold the hearty filling well. Choose sturdier slices for best results.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
American cheese melts smoothly, but cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack are tasty alternatives for added flavor or texture.
- → Is it possible to use canned meat mixture?
Absolutely. A 15-ounce can of sloppy joe sauce mixed with ground beef makes prep even faster and just as tasty.
- → How do I get the sandwiches super crispy?
Ensure each slice is evenly buttered and preheat your skillet or griddle. Cook on medium to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- → Are leftovers easy to reheat?
Yes. Warm leftovers on a skillet or in a toaster oven to bring back the crispness and keep the filling gooey.