Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese (Printer-Friendly)

A crispy sandwich filled with savory sloppy joe meat and creamy melted American cheese ready in 18 minutes.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Dairy and Bread

01 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
02 - 12 slices white sandwich bread
03 - 12 slices American cheese

→ Filling

04 - Prepared Sloppy Joe meat mixture (homemade or leftover)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
02 - Spread a generous layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice, ensuring full coverage for a crispy finish.
03 - Place one slice of bread buttered side down on the heated skillet. Top with a slice of American cheese and allow it to soften slightly.
04 - Spoon approximately one sixth of the Sloppy Joe meat mixture evenly over the cheese. Cover with another slice of American cheese to contain the filling.
05 - Place another slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing up, completing the sandwich assembly.
06 - Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the underside is golden brown and crisp. Press gently with a spatula if desired for extra crispness.
07 - Carefully flip the sandwich and continue to cook until the opposite side achieves a golden crust and the cheese is fully melted.
08 - Transfer the sandwich to a cutting surface. Let it rest briefly, then cut in half to reveal the melty interior.
09 - Repeat the process for remaining sandwiches and serve immediately for optimal warmth and texture.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - For faster preparation, use a 15-ounce can of Sloppy Joe sauce combined with 1 pound of ground beef.
02 - Leftover Sloppy Joe meat can be used; adjust sandwich quantity accordingly.
03 - Substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter variation.
04 - Choose French or Italian bread for a firmer texture.
05 - Ensure butter is softened for easy spreading and better caramelization.
06 - Double cheese layers help prevent filling from leaking and enhance meltiness.
07 - To reheat, warm sandwiches on a skillet or toaster oven to retain crispness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.