Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~750 kcal

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Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Texas Toast:

• 4 thick slices Texas toast (or thick-cut sourdough bread)
• 3 tbsp butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Topping (Optional):

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced pickles
• Chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
   • Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
   • Cook until fully browned (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Simmer the Sauce:
   • Reduce heat to medium. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Step 2: Prepare the Texas Toast

1. Make the Garlic Butter:
   • In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt.
2. Toast the Bread:
   • Spread garlic butter evenly on both sides of each bread slice.
   • Heat a separate skillet or griddle over medium heat.
   • Toast the bread for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

1. Layer the Toast & Filling:
   • Place a slice of Texas toast on a plate.
   • Spoon a generous amount of Sloppy Joe mixture on top.
   • Optionally, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese while hot so it melts.
2. Add Toppings (Optional):
   • Garnish with pickles and fresh parsley for extra flavor and crunch.
3. Serve Immediately:
   • Best enjoyed hot with extra napkins—it’s messy but worth it!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	750 kcal
Total Fat	42g
Saturated Fat	18g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	1400mg
Total Carbohydrate	60g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Sugars	20g
Protein	35g

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Tips & Variations:

• Spicier Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Lighter Option: Use ground turkey and whole-grain bread.
• Extra Cheesy: Broil assembled sandwiches for 2 minutes to melt cheese further.

This Texas Toast Sloppy Joes recipe is a crowd-pleaser—perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or anytime you crave a hearty, flavorful sandwich.