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Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese combines two classic comfort foods into one foolproof meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Crispy golden bread sandwiches creamy melted American cheese with rich, savory sloppy joe meat inside. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner solution that the whole family will enjoy. You can make it from scratch, use leftovers, or get creative with different breads and meat options to suit your taste.
The first time I made this, it instantly became a hit at home. Now whenever I have leftover sloppy joe meat, this grilled cheese is my go to nextday dinner that everyone asks for.
Ingredients
- Butter: Softened for spreading creates a crisp golden crust that delivers great texture and flavor
- White Bread: Thick sliced white bread holds the filling well and toasts up nicely without getting soggy
- Prepared Sloppy Joe Meat Mixture: Use your favorite homemade recipe or leftovers for convenience and rich taste
- American Cheese: Classic choice that melts beautifully, offering creamy, nostalgic goodness
- Cheese selection: Choose fresh, pliable cheese slices for optimal melt and creamy texture
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
- Assemble:
- Butter one side of each piece of bread. Place one slice of bread into the skillet, butter side down. Top the bread slice with one slice of cheese. Scoop about 1/6th of the Sloppy Joe meat mixture evenly over the top of the cheese. Top the meat mixture with another slice of cheese, then another slice of buttered bread with the butter side facing up.
- Cook first side:
- Cook the bread until it begins to turn golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Flip and finish:
- Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook until golden brown on the second side.
- Rest and cut:
- Remove the sandwich to a cutting board and cut it in half, if desired.
- Repeat and serve:
- Repeat the process with the remaining bread, cheese, and Sloppy Joe meat mixture. Serve immediately.
Every time I make a Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese I’m reminded of summer cookouts and cozy winter nights when this sandwich was the perfect comfort food to bring us together.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers wrapped in foil or inside an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on a skillet or in a toaster oven to keep the bread crisp and cheese melty. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the bread soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping ground turkey or lentils for a lighter or vegetarian version of the sandwich. Different bread options like sourdough or Italian bread add lovely texture and flavor. Add pepper jack cheese or pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese with a warm tomato soup or a fresh crisp salad for a nicely balanced meal. Cutting the sandwich into quarters makes excellent appetizers for game day or parties.
Enjoy this warm, gooey sandwich fresh from the skillet for the best texture and flavor. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that hits the comfort food spot.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
White, French, or Italian bread slices are ideal as they toast evenly and hold the filling well. Thicker bread helps keep the sandwich sturdy.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, while American cheese melts smoothly, cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack add interesting flavors and textures.
- → Is canned sloppy joe meat suitable?
Absolutely, a 15-ounce canned sloppy joe mix combined with ground beef speeds up preparation without sacrificing taste.
- → How do I ensure a crispy sandwich crust?
Butter each bread slice evenly and cook on a preheated skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides for a perfect crisp.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat sandwiches on a warm skillet or toaster oven to restore crispness while keeping the filling gooey; avoid microwaving.