This Easy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joe is a fun twist on a classic! Juicy beef mixed with a creamy, cheesy beer sauce makes every bite mouthwatering. Super quick to whip up, too!
I love serving these on a toasted bun with a side of crispy fries. They’re perfect for game day or any casual gathering. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast—like magic! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 for a juicy Sloppy Joe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but it may be a bit drier. Ground turkey or chicken can also substitute for a lighter version.
Beer: A lager or ale adds depth to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use beer, try beef broth or a non-alcoholic beer instead for a similar flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor. If you want to mix it up, Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack can add a nice kick. Don’t forget, using freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded!
Pretzel Buns: These add a great texture and taste. If you can’t find them, regular sandwich buns work fine, but a toasted brioche bun also makes a delightful alternative.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor from My Onions and Garlic?
Cooking the onions and garlic properly is key. Start by cooking them in the same skillet as the ground beef. This allows the onions to absorb those meaty flavors.
- Cook onions until they’re soft and translucent, around 5 minutes.
- Adding garlic towards the end of cooking prevents it from burning, which can turn bitter. Just 1 minute is enough to get that lovely aroma.
Pay attention to both steps; they set the foundation for this dish’s delicious flavor. Happy cooking!
Easy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup beer (lager or ale works well)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 pretzel buns or sandwich buns, toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joe recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 30 minutes from start to delicious finish. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, letting it brown for about 5-7 minutes. You want it nice and browned for flavor!
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. If there’s too much grease, drain it off!
3. Season the Mixture:
Add in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Give it a good stir and season with salt and pepper to taste. This will add a depth of flavor to your sloppy joes!
4. Simmer with Beer:
Pour in the beer and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and reduces the liquid slightly, making it even tastier.
5. Make it Cheesy:
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely, forming a creamy sauce that coats the beef.
6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Spoon your delicious beer cheese sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted pretzel buns or any sandwich buns you have. They’re going to be gooey and cheesy, just perfect!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your sloppy joes immediately, and feel free to pair them with your favorite sides, like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!
Happy cooking and enjoy your mouthwatering Easy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joe!
FAQs for Easy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joe
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly less rich, so you might want to increase the seasoning a tad to make up for it.
What Type of Beer Should I Use?
I recommend using a lager or ale for the best flavor. If you don’t want to use beer, feel free to substitute with beef broth for a similar depth without the alcohol.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. To keep the buns from getting soggy, it’s best to store the meat mixture separately.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just warm it up and spoon it onto your toasted buns!
