Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

1 large yellow onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1/2 cup ketchup

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 cup beef broth (or water)

2 tablespoons olive oil

8 slices Texas toast (frozen or fresh, about 3/4 inch thick)

4 tablespoons butter, melted

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

Shredded cheddar cheese

Pickled jalapeños

Diced red onion

Coleslaw

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, black pepper, salt, and beef broth (or water). Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if the mixture becomes too thick.

Step 6: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 7: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush both sides of the Texas toast with the garlic butter. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe filling onto one slice of Texas toast. Add shredded cheddar cheese and your choice of pickled jalapeños, diced red onions, and coleslaw. Top with another slice of Texas toast.

Step 9: Serve immediately while warm and the toast is still crispy.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sloppy joe mixture.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Use a cast-iron skillet to get a perfectly crisp crust on the Texas toast when cooking on the stovetop.

Add sliced avocado or a fried egg on top for added richness and texture.

Storage

Store any leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Texas toast is best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make the sloppy joe filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before assembling your sandwiches.

What can I use if I don’t have Texas toast?

If Texas toast is unavailable, use thick-sliced bread like brioche or sourdough. Toast it well to prevent sogginess from the sloppy joe filling.