Next, stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Allow this mixture to simmer on low for about 5-7 minutes. This ensures all those amazing flavors meld together beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when it has thickened up a bit and the smell fills your kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation!
While that’s happening, I heat up my griddle or a frying pan on medium-low. Butter one side of each slice of bread. When the pan is hot, place buttered bread on the griddle and add a slice of cheese on top. Don’t be shy with the cheese; we want it gooey! After a couple of minutes, I spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture directly onto the cheese, and then top it with another slice of cheese and another slice of buttered bread, butter side up.
Grill for about 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich and grill the other side until it’s perfectly toasted and the cheese has melted. When both sides are crisp and golden, I take them off the heat, slice in half, and serve. Believe me, you’ll want to dig in immediately!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this three ways: using ground turkey, beef, and even a plant-based meat alternative. All three were delicious, but I found that the beef provides a richer flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce. Whichever meat you use, just make sure to drain excess grease after browning to avoid a too-greasy sandwich.
When it comes to cheese, I tried several combinations, and my absolute favorite is a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy American. The sharpness of the cheddar contrasts wonderfully with the savory Sloppy Joe mix, while the American adds that melty factor we all crave. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites!
Lastly, I always toast my bread lightly before assembling the sandwich—this helps prevent sogginess from the Sloppy Joe mixture later on. It ensures that you get that perfect crunch every time you take a bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes I made in my first few attempts was adding too much liquid to the Sloppy Joe mixture. While you want it to be juicy and delicious, too much ketchup or sauce can make it runny and cause the sandwich to fall apart. A good rule of thumb is to let it simmer until it’s thickened, as mentioned previously. (See the next page below to continue…)