Bacon, Beer and Cheese Sloppy Joes

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Introduction:

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Bacon, Beer, and Cheese Sloppy Joes recipe. This hearty and flavorful dish combines the rich and savory flavors of ground beef, crispy bacon, tangy beer, and melted cheddar cheese, all piled high on buttery brioche buns. In this SEO article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to become a new family go-to.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 8 slices bacon chopped
  • 1/2 yellow onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 cup beer I used Guinness
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cubed
  • 6 brioche buns

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet cook the bacon on medium high heat for 2-3 minutes or until crispy but still bendable.
  2. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain all but two tablespoons of the fat.
  3. Add the onions and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until softened.
  4. Add in the beef, lower the heat to medium and cook well, breaking it apart but leaving some chunks about the size of a raspberry or small grape (don’t crush the heck out of it, the larger crumbles will help give the sandwich stability).
  5. Cook until well browned (5-6 minutes), then add in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worchestershire sauce, dijon mustard, beer and beef broth.
  6. Stir well, continue cooking until the sauce starts to evaporate and the mixture becomes “sloppy” (about 5-6 minutes).
  7. The consistency you are looking for is reduced enough that spoonfuls can be placed on top of each other with the bottom spoonful not spreading more than a half inch or so.
  8. Add in the chunks of cheddar and cooked bacon crumbles a minute before serving and stir just slightly to melt them into little puddles.
  9. Toast the buns then spoon over the mixture and top with additional bacon (if desired).
  10. Nutrition
  11. Calories: 979kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 66g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Cholesterol: 283mg | Sodium: 1288mg | Potassium: 632mg | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1375IU | Vitamin C: 4.3mg | Calcium: 352mg | Iron: 4.1mg

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish Creatively: Elevate the presentation of your Bacon, Beer, and Cheese Sloppy Joes by garnishing them with fresh ingredients such as sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or avocado. Sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley on top for added color and flavor.
  2. Side Dish Pairings: Serve your Sloppy Joes with a variety of delicious side dishes to complement the rich flavors. Classic choices include potato chips, coleslaw, potato salad, or a crisp green salad. You can also opt for sweet potato fries, onion rings, or corn on the cob for a hearty meal.
  3. Open-Face Variation: For a unique twist, consider serving your Sloppy Joes open-face style. Toast the brioche buns until golden brown, then spoon the meat mixture generously over each half. This allows you to fully appreciate the savory toppings and makes for a visually appealing presentation.
  4. Mini Sloppy Joes: Transform your Bacon, Beer, and Cheese Sloppy Joes into bite-sized appetizers by using slider buns or mini brioche rolls. Simply scale down the portion size and serve as a crowd-pleasing snack or party finger food.
  5. Accompany with Pickles: The tangy crunch of pickles pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Sloppy Joes. Serve dill pickle slices on the side or add them directly to the sandwich for a burst of flavor and texture.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Bacon, Beer, and Cheese Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the mixture to cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
  2. Freezing Instructions: If you have a large batch of Sloppy Joes or want to prepare them in advance, you can freeze the mixture for future use. Portion the cooled Sloppy Joe mixture into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen Sloppy Joes can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen Sloppy Joes, thaw the container overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the mixture gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for quick and convenient reheating.
  4. Revive with Sauce: If the Sloppy Joe mixture becomes dry upon reheating, add a splash of beef broth, beer, or tomato sauce to moisten it and restore its sauciness. Adjust the seasoning as needed with additional spices or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.

FAQs:

  1. Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese in This Recipe? Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor to the Sloppy Joes, you can experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences. Try substituting it with Monterey Jack, smoked gouda, or even blue cheese for a bold twist.
  2. What Beer Should I Use for the Recipe? The choice of beer can significantly impact the flavor profile of your Sloppy Joes. Opt for a beer with a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients. Dark beers like Guinness or stout add depth and richness, while lagers or pale ales contribute a lighter and milder taste. Feel free to use your favorite beer or whatever you have on hand.
  3. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time? Yes, Bacon, Beer, and Cheese Sloppy Joes can be made ahead of time and stored for later consumption. Simply prepare the mixture according to the recipe instructions, then allow it to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. When ready to serve, reheat the Sloppy Joe mixture gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
  4. Are Brioche Buns Essential, or Can I Use Another Type of Bread? While brioche buns add a buttery richness and soft texture to the Sloppy Joes, you can substitute them with other types of bread if desired. Try using hamburger buns, ciabatta rolls, pretzel buns, or even sliced sandwich bread. Choose a bread that can hold up well to the hearty filling and provide a satisfying base for the Sloppy Joes.
  5. Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan? Yes, you can adapt the recipe to suit vegetarian or vegan diets by using plant-based alternatives for the ground beef, bacon, and cheese. Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or meatless ground beef substitute. For a vegan version, omit the bacon and use dairy-free cheese or a homemade vegan cheese sauce. Adjust the seasonings and spices to enhance the flavor of the meatless Sloppy Joes.

Conclusion:

Bacon, Beer, and Cheese Sloppy Joes offer a delectable twist on a beloved classic, combining savory ground beef, crispy bacon, tangy beer-infused sauce, and melty cheddar cheese for a truly irresistible meal. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and crowd-pleasing appeal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and treat your taste buds to a flavor-packed culinary adventure!

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