Texas Toast Sloppy Joes have completely changed my weeknight dinner game! I used to dread making Sloppy Joes because the buns would always get soggy, but ever since I discovered this trick of using thick, buttery Texas toast, it’s been a total game-changer. The bread is super sturdy and has this amazing garlicky, cheesy flavor from the butter spread. The aroma of the savory meat mixture simmering on the stove, mixed with the toasted garlic bread, is just heavenly. If you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic comfort food, you’re going to love this. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
- Sturdy Base: No more soggy buns! The thick Texas toast holds up perfectly to the hearty sloppy joe filling.
- Amazing Flavor: The buttered and toasted Texas toast, enhanced with garlic and optional Parmesan, adds an incredible layer of taste.
- Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in about 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s a familiar, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will devour these, especially when served as Cheeseburger Bites with parmesan garlic.
- Party Ready: These make a fantastic, easy-to-handle appetizer or main dish for gatherings.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite toppings and sides, like a delicious Cheeseburger Bombs appetizer.
- Delicious Texture: The contrast between the tender sloppy joe mixture and the crispy toast is simply irresistible.
Ingredients for Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
Gather these simple ingredients for a taste of comfort that’s better than any standard bun. The star here is definitely the bread, but the filling is just as important. We’ll use 8 thick slices of Texas toast bread, which is perfect because it won’t get soggy. For the hearty filling, you’ll need 1.5 lbs ground beef, 1 medium onion, diced, and 1 bell pepper, diced. We’ll sauté these with 3 cloves garlic, minced for that essential aromatic base. The sauce gets its rich flavor from 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar for a touch of sweetness, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce for depth. A little 1 tablespoon yellow mustard and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar add a nice tang, while 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder give it a warm kick. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste and 1/2 cup beef broth to create that perfect saucy consistency. To get that amazing garlic bread flavor, you’ll need 4 tablespoons butter, softened, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. For an extra touch, consider 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, which really makes these taste like Cheeseburger Bites with parmesan garlic!
How to Make Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
Don’t worry if you’re new to this; making these incredible Texas Toast Sloppy Joes is straightforward and so rewarding! The aroma alone will have your family gathering in the kitchen. We’ll break it down into three easy parts: getting that delicious sloppy joe mixture ready, preparing the amazing garlic-parmesan Texas toast, and finally, bringing it all together for the perfect bite.
Preparing the Sloppy Joe Mixture
- Step 1: Start by browning 1.5 lbs ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks. Once it’s nicely browned, drain off any excess fat.
- Step 2: Toss in 1 medium onion, diced, and 1 bell pepper, diced. Cook them with the beef until they start to soften, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The kitchen will start to smell amazing!
- Step 3: Add 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Step 4: Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until it’s all combined.
- Step 5: Pour in 1/2 cup beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken up nicely, just like a classic sloppy joe. This process really lets the flavors meld together, creating something truly special, almost like the base for Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bites.
Preparing the Texas Toast
- Step 6: While the sloppy joe mixture is simmering, it’s time to get the Texas toast ready. In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons butter, softened, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This buttery garlic spread is what elevates these from regular sloppy joes to something truly special.
- Step 7: Spread this glorious butter mixture evenly over one side of each of the 8 thick slices of Texas toast bread. If you’re feeling fancy and want that extra cheesy kick, now is the time to sprinkle on 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered side.
- Step 8: Toast the bread until it’s golden brown and crispy. You can do this under your broiler for 1-2 minutes (watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!) or toast it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. Either way, you want that satisfying crunch.
Assembling the Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
- Step 9: Now for the best part – assembly! Take a slice of your perfectly toasted Texas toast, unbuttered side up. Spoon a generous amount of the warm, savory sloppy joe mixture onto it.
- Step 10: Top it off with another slice of Texas toast, making sure the buttered, garlicky side is facing up. This creates a delightful flavor and texture combination, much like you’d find in delicious Cheeseburger Bombs appetizer variations. Serve them immediately and enjoy the magic!
Pro Tips for the Best Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
Want to take your Texas Toast Sloppy Joes from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make all the difference:
- Always use good quality, thick-cut Texas toast. It’s the foundation, and a flimsy bread just won’t give you that satisfying crunch.
- Don’t overcook the sloppy joe mixture; you want it saucy, not dry. A little extra beef broth can save a batch if it thickens too much.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Sometimes the ground beef needs a little more salt or pepper, or maybe a dash more vinegar for brightness.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of onion powder or garlic powder to the meat mixture itself.
What’s the secret to perfect Texas Toast Sloppy Joes?
The secret is in the buttery, garlicky toast! Making a compound butter with softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, then spreading it generously on the Texas toast before toasting, adds an incredible depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sloppy joe filling, much like in Cheeseburger Bites with parmesan garlic.
Can I make Texas Toast Sloppy Joes ahead of time?
You can prepare the sloppy joe mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before assembling. However, I recommend toasting the Texas toast just before serving to ensure it stays wonderfully crispy.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Texas Toast Sloppy Joes?
The biggest mistake is using thin bread that gets soggy. Always opt for thick Texas toast! Another pitfall is overcooking the meat filling, which can make it dry. Lastly, don’t forget to toast the bread well; a soggy toast base will ruin the experience, unlike the delightful crunch you get with these Cheeseburger Bombs appetizer.
Best Ways to Serve Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
These hearty sandwiches are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides really makes them shine. For a classic comfort food meal, I love serving them with a side of creamy coleslaw or some crunchy dill pickle chips. They also make a fantastic main dish for a backyard barbecue or a casual get-together, especially when you think of them as a fun twist on Cheeseburger Bombs for parties. If you’re serving these as a lighter option or appetizer, consider cutting them in half and offering a variety of dipping sauces on the side, like a tangy BBQ sauce or even a garlic aioli. It’s a great way to enjoy the messy, delicious goodness!
Nutrition Facts for Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
When you’re indulging in these delicious sandwiches, it’s good to have an idea of what you’re consuming. Each serving of these fantastic Texas Toast Sloppy Joes offers a hearty and satisfying experience. Remember, these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands you use and any additional toppings you add, like those found in Cheeseburger Bombs variations.
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: Approximately 650
- Fat: Approximately 35g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 23g
- Trans Fat: Less than 1g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g
- Fiber: Approximately 4g
- Sugar: Approximately 25g
- Protein: Approximately 33g
- Sodium: Approximately 1200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
Don’t let any of this deliciousness go to waste! If you happen to have leftovers of these amazing Texas Toast Sloppy Joes, storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. First, let the sloppy joe mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the sloppy joe mixture in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the sloppy joe mixture on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For the best texture, I recommend toasting fresh slices of Texas toast when you’re ready to serve, rather than trying to reheat the assembled sandwiches. This helps keep that delightful crunch, much like the crispy exterior of Cheeseburger Bombs appetizer.
Variations of Texas Toast Sloppy Joes You Can Try
While these Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily adapt them to suit your preferences or even turn them into fun appetizers. Think of them as a jumping-off point for even more deliciousness. Here are a few ideas to get you started on exploring Cheeseburger Bombs variations.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the sloppy joe mixture for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for finely crumbled firm tofu or plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian version.
- Slow Cooker Method: Prepare the sloppy joe mixture in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours, then serve over toasted Texas toast.
Cheeseburger Bombs Appetizer Variation
To transform these into a crowd-pleasing appetizer, you can make Cheeseburger Bombs appetizer bites! Simply prepare the sloppy joe mixture as directed, but allow it to cool slightly. Then, take small pieces of the Texas toast, top with a spoonful of the mixture, and wrap with a crescent roll dough. Bake until golden brown and serve with a side of dipping sauce.
Garlic Parmesan Burger Bites Adaptation
For a flavor profile similar to Garlic Parmesan Burger Bites, make sure to generously butter and top the Texas toast with Parmesan cheese before toasting. You can also stir some extra Parmesan cheese directly into the sloppy joe mixture at the end of cooking for an even cheesier, garlicky flavor explosion. This adaptation brings a delightful savory and cheesy element to the classic sloppy joe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
What makes Texas Toast Sloppy Joes different from regular Sloppy Joes?
The biggest difference is the bread! Instead of soft, often soggy hamburger buns, these use thick, buttery slices of Texas toast. This provides a much sturdier, flavorful base that stands up to the hearty sloppy joe filling, offering a delightful crunch that you won’t get with traditional buns. It’s a simple swap that makes a huge impact.
Can I use different types of bread if I can’t find Texas toast?
Absolutely! While Texas toast is ideal for its thickness and buttery flavor, you can use other sturdy, thick-cut breads. Brioche or challah bread would also work well, though they might be a bit softer. The key is to use bread that won’t fall apart when loaded with the sloppy joe mixture, similar to how you’d want a good base for Cheeseburger Bombs appetizer.
What are some good dipping sauces for Texas Toast Sloppy Joes?
These are fantastic on their own, but a good dipping sauce can elevate them even further! A classic choice is a tangy BBQ sauce, but a creamy ranch or a zesty sriracha mayo also works wonderfully. For something a bit different, consider a garlic aioli or even a mild queso. It’s all about complementing that rich, savory flavor, much like you’d serve with Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bites.
How do I reheat the sloppy joe mixture without it getting dry?
To reheat the sloppy joe mixture and keep it moist, it’s best to do it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems a bit thick. Stir frequently until it’s heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can sometimes dry out the meat, unlike the tender texture you aim for in Cheeseburger Bombs with garlic parmesan.
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Texas Toast Sloppy Joes: 35 Min Comfort
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a comforting and easy meal with these Texas Toast Sloppy Joes. Thick, buttery Texas toast replaces soggy buns, providing a sturdy and delicious base for a flavorful sloppy joe mixture. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 8 thick slices of Texas toast bread
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, pickles, sliced jalapeños, coleslaw
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
- While the sloppy joe mixture is simmering, prepare the Texas toast. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Spread the butter mixture evenly over one side of each slice of Texas toast. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the buttered side.
- Toast the bread: You can either toast the bread under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crispy, or toast it in a skillet over medium heat.
- Assemble the Texas Toast Sloppy Joes: Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto the unbuttered side of a slice of Texas toast. Top with another slice of toast, buttered side up.
- Serve immediately with your favorite optional toppings.
Notes
- For a spicier sloppy joe, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If you don’t have Texas toast, regular thick-cut bread can be used, but it may not hold up as well to the sloppy joe mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sloppy joe mixture and toast fresh bread for the best result.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: Approximately 600-700 (will vary based on toppings and exact ingredient amounts)
- Sugar: Approximately 20-30g
- Sodium: Approximately 1000-1500mg
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Trans Fat: Less than 1g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 100-120mg
