Texas-Style Sloppy Joes Ingredients:
For the Meat:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1/2 lb spicy ground sausage (or chorizo for extra kick)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (keep seeds for heat)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup Texas-style BBQ sauce (or 1/2 cup ketchup + 1/2 cup smoky BBQ)
- 1/4 cup bourbon or beer (sub beef broth if needed)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or keto sweetener)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt & black pepper to taste
To Serve:
- 6 toasted brioche buns (or Texas toast for extra heft)
- Pickled jalapeños
- Sliced cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- Creamy coleslaw (for topping)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Brown the Meats:
- In a cast-iron skillet, cook beef and sausage over medium-high heat until crumbly. Drain excess grease but leave 2 tbsp for flavor.
2️⃣ Sauté the Veggies:
- Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeños, and garlic. Cook 5 mins until softened.
3️⃣ Make the Sauce:
- Stir in BBQ sauce, bourbon, Worcestershire, mustard, brown sugar, spices, and vinegar. Simmer 15-20 mins until thickened (add splash of water if too thick).
4️⃣ Texas-Size It Up:
- Toast buns, pile high with meat, top with cheese until melted, then add pickled jalapeños and coleslaw.
Pro Tips:
- Smoke it: Add 1/2 tsp liquid smoke for campfire vibes.
- Low-carb? Serve over crispy lettuce or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Make ahead: Flavors deepen overnight! Reheat with splash of broth.
Why This is Texas-Style:
✔️ Double meat (beef + sausage) for extra richness
✔️ Bourbon/beer adds depth
✔️ Smoky heat from jalapeños + paprika
✔️ Coleslaw topping cools the spice
Pair with ice-cold Shiner Bock beer and baked beans for the full experience! 🤠🍔 Who needs a fork when you’ve got napkins? Let me know if you want it spicier or slower-cooker adapted!