🍔 Texas Toast Sloppy Joe Recipe
🔪 Prep Time: 10 mins
🍳 Cook Time: 20 mins
🍽 Servings: 4–6
📝 Ingredients:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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½ green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup tomato sauce or Âľ cup ketchup
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2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp yellow mustard or Dijon
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Texas Toast Base:
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8 slices frozen Texas Toast (garlic flavor works great)
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OR homemade Texas toast using:
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8 slices thick-cut white bread (like brioche or Texas toast bread)
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ÂĽ cup butter, softened
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
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Optional Toppings:
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Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
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Pickles
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Jalapeños
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Sliced onions
👩‍🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Texas Toast:
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If using frozen garlic Texas toast: Bake according to package instructions, usually 425°F (220°C) for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
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If making homemade: Mix butter with garlic powder and parsley. Spread on both sides of the bread and toast on a skillet or in the oven until golden.
2. Make the Sloppy Joe Filling:
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (5–7 minutes).
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Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
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Stir in tomato sauce (or ketchup), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
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Simmer over medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
3. Assemble:
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Place toasted slices on a serving plate.
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Spoon a generous portion of sloppy joe mixture on each slice.
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Optional: Top with cheese and place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until melted.
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Serve open-faced or sandwich-style with another slice on top.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A:Â Yes! The sloppy joe filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving. Assemble with toast just before eating for best texture.
Q: Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
A:Â Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: What’s the best bread for homemade Texas toast?
A:Â Use thick-cut white bread or brioche slices. Bread should be at least Âľ to 1 inch thick to hold the meat without becoming soggy.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A:Â Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or finely chopped mushrooms. Adjust seasonings accordingly.
Q: How do I prevent the toast from getting soggy?
A:Â Make sure the toast is well-toasted on both sides. Let the sloppy joe mixture simmer until thick and not watery. Serve immediately after assembling.
Q: What sides go well with Texas Toast Sloppy Joes?
A:Â Some great sides include:
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Coleslaw
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Sweet potato fries
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Pickles
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Baked beans
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Corn on the cob
Q: Can I use cheese in the mix or only on top?
A: You can stir in ½ cup of shredded cheese into the sloppy joe filling for extra creaminess or sprinkle on top and melt under the broiler.