Description
Cheesy Sloppy Joe Sliders Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sliders:
12 slider buns or dinner rolls
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp Italian seasoning or poppy seeds (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
2. Assemble the Sliders:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cut the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the bottom buns.
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the beef mixture.
Place the top buns over the cheese.
3. Bake the Sliders:
Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning or poppy seeds.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These sliders are best enjoyed warm and gooey.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, ensure your ground beef is fully browned and drained to avoid a greasy filling. When softening the onion, cook it with the beef until translucent. For the sauce, let it simmer the full 5-7 minutes; this step is crucial for developing flavor and achieving the right thick, scoopable consistency. When assembling, press the bottom buns slightly into your greased 9×13 dish to create a stable base. Spread the filling edge-to-edge for even coverage. For maximum melt, use a blend of mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for sharpness. The initial covered bake steams the buns, while the final uncovered time creates the golden, crisp top.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are a complete meal on their own, but perfect for pairing. For a game-day spread, serve with crispy potato wedges, pickle spears, and a cool ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce. For a family dinner, balance the richness with a simple green salad with vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw. They also pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries or baked beans. For easy serving, provide small plates and napkins, as they can be delightfully messy!
How-to Summary
In short: Brown beef with onion, then simmer with ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire, and seasonings. Place slider bun bottoms in a dish, top with the beef mixture and shredded cheese, and add the bun tops. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with seasoning, then bake covered for 10 minutes and uncovered for 5 minutes at 350°F until golden and melted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sloppy joe sliders ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the sliders completely in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 3-5 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat substitute work well. Adjust seasoning to taste, as leaner meats may require a dash of olive oil.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven, wrapped in foil, for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm.
My filling is too runny. How can I fix it? Simmer it longer to reduce. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the simmering filling to thicken it quickly.
Can I freeze these sliders? It’s best to freeze just the cooked filling. Thaw overnight in the fridge and assemble with fresh buns and cheese before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Fat Drain: Not draining the beef after browning leads to a greasy, soggy filling.
- Underseasoning the Filling: Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce before assembling.
- Overloading the Buns: Too much filling makes sliders difficult to eat and can cause the buns to become soggy.
- Skipping the Butter Brush: The butter creates a deliciously crisp, golden top. Don’t omit it.
- Overbaking: Baking too long after uncovering can dry out the buns. Watch for just golden brown.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Sloppy Joe Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, transforming a classic comfort food into a shareable, irresistible dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfect balance of savory, saucy filling, melted cheese, and soft, buttery bread. They are incredibly versatile for any occasion and guaranteed to be a hit. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering and watch them disappear!