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French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes

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A saucy, comforting twist on classic sloppy joes featuring slow-caramelized onions, savory ground beef, and melted Swiss or Gruyère cheese on soft buns. Perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch or casual family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4–6 slices Swiss or Gruyère cheese (optional)
  • 4–6 soft sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)

Instructions

  1. Slice the onions thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook slowly until onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. Add a splash of water if onions start to stick or brown too fast.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Push the onions to the side of the pan and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and beef broth. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and onions.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. While the sauce simmers, split and lightly toast the buns. Place a slice of Swiss or Gruyère cheese on the bottom half of each bun.
  8. Spoon the hot beef and onion mixture generously over the cheese, then top with the bun lid. The heat will melt the cheese.

Notes

Slow caramelization of onions is key for deep flavor; do not rush this step. Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess. For a saucier sloppy joe, add an extra 1/4 cup (60 ml) beef broth. Vegetarian option: substitute beef with sautéed mushrooms and lentils. Low-carb option: serve over grilled portobello mushrooms or lettuce leaves. Cheese alternatives include sharp cheddar or provolone.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion, sloppy joes, beef sloppy joes, caramelized onions, easy lunch, comfort food, sandwich, savory beef

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/french-onion-beef-sloppy-joes-recipe-easy-perfect-saucy-lunch-idea/