French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes with Melted Cheese

Looking for a sloppy joe with a gourmet twist? These French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes with Melted Cheese bring the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup to a handheld sandwich. Sweet caramelized onions, tender ground beef, and a flavorful broth-based sauce are piled onto toasted buns and topped with melty provolone cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or a cozy meal that feels special, these sloppy joes are indulgent, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes—quick and easy weeknight dinner
• Combines classic French onion flavors with a fun sloppy joe twist
• Family-friendly and sure to be a crowd-pleaser
• Juicy, savory beef with sweet onions and melty cheese in every bite
• Minimal ingredients for maximum flavor

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 lb): The main protein, rich and hearty
• Medium onion (1, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances savory flavor
• Beef broth (1 cup): Provides moisture and a rich, savory base
• Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds umami depth
• Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Boosts savory notes
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Aromatic herbaceous flavor
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Balances and enhances all flavors
• Hamburger buns (4): Soft, lightly toasted buns for serving
• Provolone cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully over the beef mixture
• Optional garnish: Chopped parsley

How to Make French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes with Melted Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and softened.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

1. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
2. Reduce Liquid: Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef.

Step 3: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

1. Toast the Buns: While the beef mixture simmers, lightly toast the hamburger buns under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
2. Add Cheese: Spoon the beef and onion mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Top with shredded provolone cheese.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

1. Broil: Place the assembled sloppy joes under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, and top with the other half of the buns. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Success

• Use thinly sliced onions for quicker caramelization and sweeter flavor
• Stir occasionally but don’t overmix the beef to maintain texture
• Toasting the buns prevents sogginess from the rich beef mixture
• For extra flavor, mix provolone with a little sharp cheddar before melting

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Broiler-safe baking sheet
• Knife and cutting board

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Mix: Combine provolone and mozzarella for extra gooey texture
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the beef and onions over roasted vegetables instead of buns
• Mushroom Upgrade: Sauté sliced mushrooms with onions for additional umami

Serving Suggestions

Serve these French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes with a crisp side salad, oven fries, or pickles for a satisfying and complete meal. They also make a great option for casual gatherings or game-day snacks.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the beef mixture up to a day in advance. Reheat before assembling and broiling the cheese.

What cheese works best?
Provolone melts beautifully, but a mix with mozzarella or cheddar is also delicious.

Can I use beef broth substitutes?
Yes, vegetable broth or chicken broth can work, but beef broth provides the richest flavor.

How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
Toast them lightly under the broiler before adding the beef mixture.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Freeze the cooked beef mixture without the buns and cheese for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

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Final Thoughts

These French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes with Melted Cheese are a fun, flavorful twist on classic comfort food. Sweet onions, savory beef, and melty cheese make them irresistible for any occasion. Quick, easy, and satisfying, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, family meals, or casual get-togethers. Enjoy the rich flavors and gooey goodness in every bite!