Texas Toast Sloppy Joes Recipe

Introduction

Texas Toast Sloppy Joes is a mouthwatering twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich. This Texas Toast Sloppy Joes recipe features thick, buttery Texas toast as the perfect base for rich, savory ground beef coated in a robust homemade sauce. This dish combines hearty flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it an irresistible meal for weeknight dinners, game days, or gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• ½ red bell pepper, finely diced
• ½ green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ cup beef broth (as needed for consistency)

For the Texas Toast:

• 6 slices Texas toast (thick-cut bread)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend of cheddar and mozzarella)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula.
   • Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
   • Cook until browned and no longer pink, draining excess fat if needed.
3. Build the Sauce:
   • Reduce heat to medium and stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato sauce, and brown sugar.
   • Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
   • If the mixture appears too thick, add a splash of beef broth for desired consistency.
   • Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld together.

Step 2: Prepare the Texas Toast

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter the Bread:
   • In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic powder and dried parsley.
   • Spread evenly on both sides of each Texas toast slice.
3. Bake the Toast:
   • Arrange the buttered bread on a baking sheet.
   • Bake for 5 minutes, then flip and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
4. Add the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle shredded cheese over each slice and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes until melted and bubbly.

Step 3: Assemble the Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

1. Spoon the Sloppy Joe filling generously over each toasted bread slice.
2. Top with additional cheese, if desired.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious Texas Toast Sloppy Joes recipe!

Tips for the Perfect Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

• Use Quality Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a rich, juicy texture.
• Toast to Perfection: Pre-baking the Texas toast ensures it stays crispy under the weight of the filling.
• Customize the Flavor: Add a splash of hot sauce or BBQ sauce for a smoky kick.
• Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, provolone, or a mix of cheeses for extra depth.
• Make Ahead: The Sloppy Joe filling can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad.
• Beverage Pairings: Goes well with iced tea, craft beer, or a chilled soda.
• Occasions: Perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or Super Bowl parties.

Conclusion

This Texas Toast Sloppy Joes recipe is an indulgent and satisfying dish that takes the beloved classic to new heights. The crispy, buttery toast paired with the rich, flavorful beef filling creates an unforgettable bite every time. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your home!