Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe recipe. Featuring hearty ground beef, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a crispy garlic Texas toast base, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, these sloppy joes offer a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the protein base for the sloppy joes.
- 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and a rich tomato flavor.
- 1 cup ketchup: Enhances the tomato flavor and adds sweetness.
- ½ cup bottled barbecue sauce: Adds a smoky and tangy element.
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami to the sauce.
- 2 Tablespoons sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and barbecue sauce.
- 1 box (8 slices) frozen garlic Texas toast: Serves as the crispy and flavorful base.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more to taste): Adds a rich, melty topping.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Brown and crumble 1 pound ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease.
- Step 2:
- Return meat to skillet and add in 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, 1 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup bottled barbecue sauce, 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 2 Tablespoons sugar.
- Step 3:
- Give it all a good stir until combined then cover and cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes. While this is cooking, prepare the 1 box (8 slices) frozen garlic Texas toast according to package directions.
- Step 4:
- When garlic Texas Toast is ready, spoon filling on top of bread and then sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and serve. Note: if you prefer, you can stick these into the oven to brown the cheese on top.
Serving and Storage Tips
Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. The combination of crispy garlic toast, savory meat filling, and melted cheese makes it a hit for any occasion. Serve these sloppy joes with a fresh side salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They are perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or game day snacks.
If you have leftovers, store the meat filling and garlic toast separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the meat filling in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, and toast the garlic bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy. Assemble the sloppy joes just before serving to maintain the texture of the toast.
Helpful Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist. If you prefer a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. To make this dish even more indulgent, consider using a blend of ground beef and ground pork. According to culinary experts, allowing the meat mixture to simmer for a bit longer can help deepen the flavors and make the sauce even more delicious.