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The Ultimate Guide to Cheesy Sloppy Joes Recipe on Texas Toast

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Elevate your next weeknight dinner with these cheesy sloppy joes on Texas toast, a foolproof blend of savory ground beef, smoky turkey bacon, and a sweet-and-tangy tomato sauce, all crowned with melted cheese atop golden, buttery bread. This recipe transforms classic Sloppy Joes into a satisfying comfort food experience that’s perfect for busy families and casual gatherings alike.

 

Each slice of thick-cut Texas toast provides the ideal sturdy base, ensuring the juicy meat mixture never soaks through. The combination of lean ground beef and chopped chicken ham creates a layered flavor profile, while the addition of smoked paprika and a touch of Dijon mustard introduces a hint of warmth and complexity. For tips on achieving the perfect balance of meat and sauce, check out our Sloppy Joes Cooking Guide, or learn more about the history of this iconic sandwich on Wikipedia’s Sloppy Joe page.

Ingredients

  • 8 slices Texas toast
  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 3 slices turkey bacon, chopped
  • ½ cup chicken ham, diced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter, for toasting

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chopped turkey bacon. Cook until it begins to crisp and render its fat, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.

Add the diced chicken ham to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes. Push the meats to one side, add the onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Whisk together the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened—about 8–10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Meanwhile, preheat a separate skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush each slice of Texas toast lightly with vegetable oil or butter. Toast the bread in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 2 minutes per side.

Pile a generous scoop of the sloppy joe mixture onto each toasted slice and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the meat mixture up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

  • Freezing tip: Freeze cooled filling in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

  • Cheese options: Swap classic cheddar for pepper jack, Colby, or even a smoky gouda for varied melting characteristics and flavor.

  • Bread alternatives: If you can’t find Texas toast, use thick-cut Italian or sourdough bread; brush generously with butter or oil before toasting.

  • Spice level: Adjust heat by adding diced jalapeños, cayenne, or extra smoked paprika. For a BBQ twist, replace half the ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce.

  • Serving suggestions: Pair with crunchy coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a light cucumber salad to balance richness.

  • Garnish ideas: Top with chopped parsley, sliced pickles, or crispy fried onions for color and texture contrast.

  • Dietary swaps: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles, and serve on whole-wheat toast.

  • Leftovers hack: Reheat filling separately and toast bread fresh under the broiler to maintain crispness before assembling.

 

  • Flavor boost: Stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or a teaspoon of hot sauce right before serving for extra tang and depth.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-cheesy-sloppy-joes-recipe-on-texas-toast/