Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

These quick and easy Texas toast sloppy Joes bring a fresh spin to the classic comfort dish and are just perfect for a busy weeknight. Thick slices of garlicky Texas toast make the ultimate base for a savory beefy filling that is both rich and slightly sweet. This is the kind of meal that draws everyone to the table fast

When I first tried these with my kids after a hectic workday we all agreed that Texas toast makes sloppy Joes even more crave-worthy and the cheese on top seals the deal

Ingredients

• Texas toast: look for slices that are thick and buttery so they hold up to the filling without getting soggy
• Ground beef: choose an eighty five percent or ninety percent lean ground beef for maximum flavor and easy browning
• Red onion: or use white or yellow for a milder flavor fresh onion gives a nice bite
• Green bell pepper: adds crunch and color try to pick one that is firm and shines
• Tomato paste: gives intense tomato flavor choose a quality brand for best taste
• Tomato sauce: creates that classic sloppy Joe sauciness
• Ketchup: brings a touch of sweetness and tanginess
• Worcestershire sauce: adds deep savory complexity to the sauce
• Brown sugar: balances out the acidity in the sauce use light brown for a mellow sweetness
• Olive oil: for sautéing brings a hint of fruitiness to the base
• Salt and pepper: essential for drawing out all the flavors use fresh cracked pepper if possible
• Garlic powder: infuses everything with warm savory notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high then add the diced onion and bell pepper Sprinkle in salt and pepper and cook for about five minutes until the veggies start to soften and the onions look glossy This is the base for all the flavor in your filling

Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef to the skillet Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces Cook until the beef is no longer pink stirring often for even browning If you see lots of fat in the pan spoon off most of it to avoid a greasy sauce

Simmer the Sauce:

Stir in tomato paste tomato sauce ketchup Worcestershire sauce brown sugar garlic powder along with a pinch more salt and pepper Mix well to combine all ingredients Let the mixture simmer gently for about ten minutes until thickened and saucy This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully

Toast the Bread:

While the beef is simmering arrange Texas toast slices on a baking sheet Bake at four hundred twenty five degrees for six to eight minutes or until the edges are golden and the center puffs gently When ready use the back of a spoon to press down the center of each toast making a little well to hold the filling

Fill and Top:

Spoon an even amount of the sloppy Joe mixture into the center of each toast slice Mound it up so every bite is loaded with flavor Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top

Melt the Cheese:

Return the toasts to the oven and bake about five minutes just until the cheese bubbles and melts creating a gooey savory cap Remove from oven and let cool briefly

Finish and Serve:

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like then dig in These are best enjoyed warm when the cheese stretches with every bite

Save

The thick garlicky Texas toast is my favorite part Here is a family secret sometimes I swap in jalapeño cheese bread for extra kick and it totally disappears at game night The way the cheese gets bubbly always reminds me of Sundays at my grandma’s kitchen table

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat place in a toaster oven or oven at three fifty degrees until warm and the toast is crisp again Microwaving will work but the toast will be softer

Ingredient Substitutions

For ground beef you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist No Texas toast on hand Try thick slices of French bread or even hamburger buns Swap green bell pepper for red if you prefer a sweeter flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sloppy Joes with a green salad crunchy coleslaw or even classic potato chips on the side For a little extra decadence add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of pickled jalapeños

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History of Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes are a staple of American comfort food said to be invented by a creative cook named Joe in Iowa during the nineteen thirties This version on Texas toast plays off classic diner flavors but gives the meal an irresistible new crunch

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread is best for this dish?

Thick-sliced Texas toast is ideal, as its sturdiness holds the hearty beef mixture and cheese without getting soggy.

→ Can I use a different ground meat?

Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work well and offer a lighter alternative to beef.

→ How do I keep the toast from getting soggy?

Pre-baking the Texas toast and pressing the center down creates a sturdy base that helps prevent sogginess.

→ What cheese is best for topping?

Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for extra flavor.

→ Are there easy ways to add vegetables?

Mix in diced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for added nutrition and texture.