How to Make Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich, featuring rich, savory beef filling served on thick, buttery Texas toast and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This hearty meal is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own Texas Toast Sloppy Joes at home.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup beef broth (optional, for a looser consistency)

For the Texas Toast:

• 8 slices Texas toast (thick-cut bread)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving a little bit to sauté the vegetables.
3. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Add the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika,and salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. If you prefer a looser consistency, gradually add the beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Prepare the Texas Toast

1. While the filling simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the Texas toast slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice generously with melted butter on both sides.
3. Toast the bread in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure even toasting.

Step 3: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

1. Remove the toasted bread from the oven and top each slice with a generous portion of the Sloppy Joe filling.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the Sloppy Joe mixture on each slice.
3. Return the assembled Sloppy Joes to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Optional: Garnish the Sloppy Joes with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve the Texas Toast Sloppy Joes hot, either open-faced or stacked with another slice of Texas toast.
3. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Texas Toast Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a simple salad.

Cook’s Notes

• Ground Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You may need to add a bit of oil when browning the meat.
• Texas Toast: If you can’t find Texas toast, use any thick-cut bread, or make your own by slicing a loaf of bread into thick slices.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor twist.

Variations

BBQ Sloppy Joes

Replace the ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.

Spicy Sloppy Joes

Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture for some extra heat.

Vegetarian Sloppy Joes

Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.

Cheesy Garlic Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

Before toasting the bread, rub each slice with a cut clove of garlic and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a cheesy garlic bread base.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the Sloppy Joe filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Sloppy Joe filling up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the filling on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling the Sloppy Joes.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe filling?

Yes, the Sloppy Joe filling freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What can I serve with Texas Toast Sloppy Joes?

These Sloppy Joes pair well with classic sides like coleslaw, French fries, potato salad, or a green salad.

5. Can I use a different type of bread?

If you don’t have Texas toast, you can use any thick-cut bread or make your own by slicing a loaf of French bread or Italian bread into thick slices.

Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are a delicious, hearty twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich. The combination of rich, savory beef filling, crispy buttered Texas toast, and melted cheddar cheese creates a comforting meal that’s sure to be a hit. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are easy to make and packed with flavor. Follow this guide to enjoy this satisfying and tasty dish at home!