These Easy Cheesy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic! Juicy ground beef mixed with a creamy beer cheese sauce makes for a deliciously messy meal.
Who doesn’t love a good Sloppy Joe? I could eat these all week! Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner, just serve them with some chips, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef (around 80/20) for the perfect balance of flavor and fat. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works as great substitutes.
Beer: A lager or ale enhances the dish’s flavor, but you can opt for non-alcoholic beer or even beef broth if you want to skip the alcohol.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers a nice tang. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant.
Onion: Yellow onions add sweetness, but you can use white or red onions, or even shallots if that’s what you have at hand.
How Do I Make the Perfect Cheesy Sauce?
Creating a creamy cheese sauce is key to this dish. Here’s how to nail it:
- After cooking your meat mix, let the beer reduce for concentrated flavor. This step is essential!
- When you stir in cream cheese and cheddar, do it over low heat to prevent the cheese from scorching.
- Make sure to keep stirring until everything blends smoothly—this ensures a nice, creamy texture. Don’t rush it!
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously cheesy sauce that pairs perfectly with the juicy beef. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale works well)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 soft sandwich buns (pretzel buns recommended)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these delicious Sloppy Joes will take about 15 minutes of cooking time. You’ll want to allow another 10 minutes for simmering and thickening the sauce, so overall, expect to spend around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and satisfying!
Easy Cooking Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onions. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This adds a lovely sweetness to our dish!
2. Add Some Flavor:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant (but not burnt!). This will really amp up the flavor of your Sloppy Joes.
3. Cook the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s browned all the way through. If there’s a lot of fat after cooking, you can drain some off if you like.
4. Make It Saucy:
Pour in the beer, stirring well to scrape up any tasty bits stuck on the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes, which lets the beer reduce and thickens the filling. You’ll love the smell!
5. Creamy Goodness:
Lower your heat to medium-low. Stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until everything melts together and becomes a creamy, cheesy sauce.
6. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
If you’d like, toast the sandwich buns lightly for a little crunch. Then, take a generous scoop of the cheesy beef mixture and spoon it onto each bun. Trust me, it’s gonna be messy in the best way!
7. Dig In!
Serve your Easy Cheesy Beer Cheese Sloppy Joes right away with your favorite sides, like chips, fries, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy every cheesy, juicy bite!
Now you’re all set to dive into these delicious Sloppy Joes. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian meal, try using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
What Beer Should I Use for This Recipe?
A lager or ale works best, but feel free to experiment with your favorite beer! Just keep in mind that stronger-flavored beers will give your Sloppy Joes a more pronounced taste. If you want to avoid alcohol, use beef broth instead.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep the mixture moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance. Store it in the fridge, then just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. This will save you time, especially for gatherings or busy weeknights!
