Sloppy Joe Sliders

These Sloppy Joe Sliders are mini-sized delights that pack classic flavor into a bite-sized package with an elevating sweet glaze.

Why you will love Sloppy Joe Sliders

Perfect when you're hosting Sunday Dinner, game day, or simply craving some comfort food, Sloppy Joe Sliders are here to save the day!

Heck, I even make them on a plain ol' Tuesday night. They are that easy. But not certainly not plain. This is the sloppy joe I grew up on but on steroids.

I've been making homemade Sloppy Joes for years, but after I started making them on slider buns and with this sweet glaze and toasty, crunchy slider buns... I'll never go back to "regular" sloppy joes again.

These Sloppy Joe Sliders are a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines the bold flavors of seasoned ground meat with sweet and tangy tomato sauce, all nestled between toasted, slider buns and topped with melty cheese.

I know you will agree!

Ingredients for Sloppy Joes:

Amazing results come from these pantry staples.

• Ground beef, Pork, or Turkey--whatever fits your preferences. I typically use beef.
• Onion--yellow onion is the usual at my house, but white onions work here
• Green Bell Pepper, optional--I prefer mine without, but lots of people like them in sloppy joes. You do you.
• Tomatoes, canned--Diced is nice because they are easy to cook down, but use whatever canned tomatoes you have
• Quick-Cooking Oats--This helps to thicken the sloppy Joe filling. Leave it out if you want, but you will have to simmer a bit longer to get a good thick filling.
• Chili Powder--Brings the flavor to the whole deal.
• Sugar--Offsets the acidity in the tomatoes.
• Worcestershire Sauce--Adds umami to the dish. That secret something that people wouldn't be able to guess, but makes the dish sing.
• Garlic Salt--Everything needs a little garlic, right?

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns--full-size buns, Hawaiian Rolls, or Texas Toast work equally well.
• Butter for toasting buns--salted or unsalted
• Sliced cheese--I like Colby Jack and American cheese, but pepper jack would be yummy.
• Brown Sugar--Don't skip the glaze! Adds a sweet to the rich spice of the meat.
• Butter, melted--Helps the bun tops crisp up.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning OR 1 teaspoon of each--sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, dried minced onions

How to Make Sloppy Joe Sliders

Easy to put together, but make sure you bake them with the glaze for over-the-top results. The results are worth the extra step of brushing and baking.

Preparing the Sloppy Joe Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add chopped onion and green pepper to the skillet. Sauté until they soften.
3. Stir in tomatoes, quick-cooking oats, chili powder, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic salt.
4. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Assembling the Sliders

4. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
5. Split the slider buns in half, spread them with butter and lightly toast them on a baking sheet covered with foil.
6. Spoon a generous amount of the cooked Sloppy Joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns.
7. If desired, top the filling with a slice of cheese.
8. Place the top bun halves over the filling.
9. In the microwave, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar.
10. Brush the tops of the buns with the butter/brown sugar mixture. Sprinkle each bun top with Everything Bagel Seasoning.
11. Arrange the sliders on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts and the buns are golden brown.
12. Serve immediately.

Substitutions

These Sloppy Joe Sliders are spot on as is, but if you want to mix it up a little, try some of these ideas.

• For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat or a mix of lentils and mushrooms.
• Experiment with different cheeses to add extra flavor.
• Sloppy Joe sliders with Hawaiian rolls for a sweet twist.

Variations

• Kick up the heat by adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Create Sloppy Joe Sloppy Fries by serving the filling over a plate of crispy french fries.
• Try a Tex-Mex twist by adding black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the filling.
• Texas Toast Sloppy Joes - Toast slices of Texas Toast for a great alternative to burger buns.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftover Sloppy Joe Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, microwave for 20-30 seconds per slider or warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes.

FAQ

Related Dishes

• Porky Burgers
• Sweet and Spicy Bacon Burgers

What to serve with Sloppy Joe Sliders

While these little sandwiches are delicious on their own, why not elevate your meal by serving them with some delectable sides that complement their flavors perfectly?

1. Red Potatoes in the Air Fryer:
   • The crunchy texture goes nicely with rich Sloppy Joe Sliders.
   • Season them with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.
   • Serve with a delicious dipping sauce ranch or french onion dip.
2. Creamy Coleslaw:
   • A classic coleslaw with creamy dressing and a hint of vinegar adds a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the sliders.
   • Make it a bit spicy with a touch of Sriracha or use apple cider vinegar for a sweeter twist.
3. Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts:
   • Roasted Brussels drizzled with olive oil, honey, and a generous drizzle of sriracha offers a savory, sweet, spicy, and nutritious side.
   • The roasted flavors complement the Sloppy Joe sliders beautifully.
4. Pickles and Pickled Red Onions:
   • Tangy pickles and pickled onions add a burst of acidity and crunch to balance out the richness of the Sloppy Joes.
   • Consider making your own pickles for that extra homemade touch.
5. Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes:
   • Hearty mashed potato with bacon, french onion dip, cheddar cheese, and green onions will satisfy any comfort food cravings.
   • The cheesy, creamy goodness complements the Sloppy Joes wonderfully.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob:
   • Summer or not, grilled corn on the cob is always a hit.
   • Brush with garlic herb butter and sprinkle with chili powder for a smoky, spicy twist.
7. Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette:
   • A simple mixed green salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich Sloppy Joes.
   • Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and croutons for extra crunch and freshness.

DID YOU TRY THIS RECIPE?

Lastly, if you made Sloppy Joe Sliders following this recipe, please let me know how you liked it by leaving a comment and/or giving a rating!

I love hearing from you! I'll do my best to respond to each comment.

And of course, if you do make this recipe, tag me on Instagram! Seeing your photos is my favorite thing!

FOOD SAFETY

• Wash hands before cooking
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended