Making the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the filling: Reduce the heat to low and let the filling simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened and flavors are well combined.
Preparing the Slider Buns:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the buns: Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in a 9×13-inch baking dish or on a baking sheet.
- Assemble the sliders: Spoon the Sloppy Joe filling evenly over the bottom buns. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if using. Place the top halves of the buns on top.
- Brush with butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and garlic powder. Brush the tops of the buns with the garlic butter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Baking the Sliders:
- Bake: Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Cool slightly: Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving:
- Plate the sliders: Arrange the Sloppy Joe Sliders on a serving platter.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve with pickle slices on the side.
Tips for Success
- Cheese variation: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
- Bun choice: Brioche or potato rolls provide a soft, slightly sweet base that complements the savory filling.
- Make ahead: The Sloppy Joe filling can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to assemble the sliders.
Serving Suggestions
- Side dishes: Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh green salad.
- Beverage pairing: Pair with a cold beer, soda, or a refreshing iced tea.
Conclusion
Enjoy your Sloppy Joe Sliders—a delicious, fun, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich, savory filling and soft buns, these sliders are sure to be a hit. Visit our site for more exclusive recipes and culinary inspirations to elevate your cooking adventures.