Sloppy Joe Sliders
Sloppy Joe Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game nights, parties, or a cozy family dinner. These bite-sized sandwiches combine the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with a rich, tangy ground beef filling and gooey melted cheddar cheese.
Each slider bursts with flavor, blending savory beef, aromatic garlic, and the perfect balance of ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and buttery golden tops add a touch of elegance to this classic comfort food.
Whether you’re indulging in a nostalgic favorite or sharing with friends, these sliders are easy to make and even easier to love. Prepare ahead for convenience or customize the filling to suit your taste!
Sloppy Joe Sliders Ingredients: A Flavorful Foundation
- Hawaiian Rolls: Soft and slightly sweet, these rolls are the perfect base, balancing the savory filling with a tender texture.
- Ground Beef: Rich and hearty, the star of the filling, delivering a satisfying and meaty bite in every slider.
- Yellow Onion: Finely diced for a touch of sweetness and depth, it forms the aromatic base of the filling.
- Garlic: Minced to perfection, it adds a savory and robust flavor that enhances the dish’s complexity.
- Ketchup: A sweet and tangy hero that binds the filling together with a luscious, saucy texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: The umami-packed secret ingredient that elevates the flavor profile with depth and balance.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melty and indulgent, this topping brings creaminess and a satisfying richness to the sliders.
Recipe Tips for Sloppy Joe Sliders
- Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time
The Sloppy Joe filling can be made up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even richer taste. Simply reheat the filling over low heat before assembling the sliders. This is a perfect way to save time on busy days. - Choose the Right Rolls
Opt for soft yet sturdy rolls, like Hawaiian rolls, to ensure they soak up the deliciously saucy filling without becoming overly soggy. If Hawaiian rolls aren’t available, brioche or potato rolls can serve as excellent substitutes, providing a similar sweetness and texture. - Keep the Sliders Warm for Serving
To keep your sliders warm during gatherings, cover them lightly with foil after baking and keep them in a low-temperature oven. This ensures the cheese stays melted and the sliders remain perfectly soft and moist until served.
What to Serve with Sloppy Joe Sliders
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries pairs wonderfully with the tangy, savory flavors of the sliders. Serve them with a creamy dipping sauce for an added touch. - Fresh Coleslaw
A crunchy, refreshing coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the rich sliders. Opt for a vinegar-based slaw to cut through the richness or a creamy version for a classic pairing. - Garden Salad
A light, vibrant salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty sliders, making for a well-rounded meal.
FAQ
1. Can I make the sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake them just before serving for best results.
2. Can I freeze the Sloppy Joe filling?
Absolutely! The filling freezes well for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a milder, nutty flavor. The choice is yours!
4. How do I prevent the sliders from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy sliders, toast the bottom halves of the rolls lightly before adding the filling. This creates a barrier that prevents excess moisture from soaking through.
Sloppy Joe Sliders
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls halved
- 1 tablespoon 30 ml olive or avocado oil
- 1 pound 450 grams lean ground beef (90/10)
- ½ medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup 120 ml ketchup
- 1 tablespoon 15 ml Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup 60 ml water (adjust as needed)
- 2 cups 225 grams shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon 14 grams unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking pan.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) or 160°C for fan-assisted settings. Lightly grease a baking dish measuring 9×9 or 7×11 inches. Alternatively, a 9×13-inch pan can also be used.
- Slice the rolls.
- Using a serrated knife, carefully separate the tops of the Hawaiian rolls from the bottoms. Arrange the bottom halves inside the prepared baking dish.
- Cook the beef mixture.
- Heat the olive oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently and breaking the beef into smaller crumbles, until it is fully browned.
- Incorporate the seasonings and sauces.
- Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Simmer the mixture.
- Pour in the water, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken, and the flavors should meld beautifully.
- Assemble the sliders.
- Spread the prepared beef mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the beef filling, then place the tops of the rolls over the cheese layer.
- Add the finishing touches.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the buttered surface.
- Bake the sliders.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown. Monitor closely to avoid over-browning.
- Serve.
- Remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Prepare the filling in advance and reheat when needed for quick assembly.
Use soft yet durable rolls, such as King’s Hawaiian, to prevent sogginess.
Add variety with extras like diced bell peppers, pickled jalapeños, or spices like cumin.
