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Sloppy Joes with Cheese

These loaded sloppy joes take the classic sandwich up a notch with homemade queso and fresh jalapeños. The sweet-tangy beef pairs perfectly with creamy cheese sauce on toasted brioche.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Sloppy Joe Meat

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 yellow onion finely diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 can tomato sauce 8 oz
  • 2/3 cup ketchup
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp yellow mustard
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 tsp onion powder
  • 3/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Homemade Queso

  • 2 1/4 cups half and half
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/3 tsp garlic powder
  • 3/4 tsp onion powder
  • 3 Tbsp diced green chiles
  • 12 oz sharp cheddar cheese hand-grated
  • Salt to taste

For Serving

  • 8 brioche buns
  • Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  • In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers and cook until soft, 5 to 6 minutes.
  • Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
  • Pour prepared sauce over beef and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • While beef simmers, whisk together half and half, cornstarch, onion powder, and garlic powder in a small saucepan.
  • Bring to a light boil over medium high heat, whisking constantly.
  • Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in grated cheese until melted.
  • Add diced green chiles and season with salt. Keep warm on low heat.
  • Toast brioche buns in a hot skillet until golden brown.
  • Spoon beef mixture onto bottom buns, top with queso and sliced jalapeños, then cap with top buns. Serve immediately.