This Beer Cheese Sloppy Joe is a fun twist on the classic! It features a hearty beef mixture topped with creamy beer cheese sauce, all piled high on a soft bun. Yum!
Who knew that cheese and beer could make such a tasty combo? I can’t help but grab an extra napkin when I eat these—they’re a delicious mess! 😂
I love serving these with a side of crispy fries. They make a perfect weeknight treat that’s easy to whip up. Plus, it’s always great to share with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy and flavorful result. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well too, though it may alter the richness a bit.
Beer: A lager or ale gives good flavor, but you can use non-alcoholic beer if needed. For a lighter flavor, try chicken or vegetable broth instead. I find that using different beers can change the taste positively!
Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese: These cheeses melt wonderfully together. If you’re short on one, mix and match with other cheeses like colby jack or gouda. I love adding a touch of pepper jack for some heat!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a deep umami flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce is a decent substitute, though it can be saltier. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also work in a pinch!
How Do I Ensure the Meat is Perfectly Cooked?
To get the best texture and flavor from your ground beef, follow these steps:
- Cook over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon. This helps it brown evenly.
- Let it sit for a minute before stir-frying again to develop those delicious brown bits.
- Always drain excess fat after browning; this keeps your sloppy joes from becoming greasy.
With these tips, you’ll have a tasty base for your beer cheese goodness! Remember, the right cooking temperature and technique make all the difference.
How to Make Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Buns:
- 4 pretzel buns or burger buns
- Optional: pickles or jalapeños for toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, drain it out to keep your sloppy joes from being greasy.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Once the ground beef is cooked, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will add great flavor to your sloppy joes!
3. Add the Liquids:
Next, pour in the beer and add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the flavors blend and the liquid to reduce slightly.
4. Make it Cheesy:
Reduce the heat to low, and fold in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and become creamy. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper as you go!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese sauce is getting nice and warm, you can toast your pretzel buns. Place them in a separate skillet or in the oven until they are warm and slightly crispy. This will add a nice texture to your sloppy joes.
6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Take the bottom half of each bun and spoon the beer cheese beef mixture generously over it. If you’d like, add some pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick. Then, place the top half of the bun on each one.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes are ready to be served! Enjoy them warm with your favorite sides like crispy fries or a simple salad. Dig in and savor the deliciousness!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef to make a lighter version of the sloppy joes. Just be mindful that poultry can dry out more easily, so consider adding a little extra beer or a splash of broth for moisture while cooking!
What Beer Should I Use for This Recipe?
A lager or an ale works best for this recipe, but feel free to choose your favorite! Just avoid overly hoppy beers as they can alter the flavor of the sauce. A light lager offers a milder taste, while a pale ale adds a bit more depth.
How Do I Store Leftover Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beer or water to keep the mixture creamy. You may need to toast fresh buns when serving leftovers for that perfect crunch!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or finely chopped mushrooms and additional beans or lentils for texture and protein. Use vegetable broth or a non-alcoholic beer instead of regular beer to keep it vegetarian-friendly!
