One summer evening during a family barbecue, I found myself with leftover garlic Texas toast and a craving for something hearty and satisfying. That’s when the idea hit: what if I turned my classic Sloppy Joe recipe into an open-faced, toasty delight? And just like that, Texas Toast Sloppy Joes were born. The thick, buttery slices of toast hold up perfectly to the saucy beef, and that golden crunch takes comfort food to a whole new level.
Since then, this recipe has become a weeknight favorite in our house. It’s fast, filling, and just plain fun to eat. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or game day snack, this dish never fails to win hearts and fill bellies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish.
- Comfort Food Classic with a Twist: Sloppy Joes + garlic toast = unforgettable flavor.
- Minimal Ingredients: Most pantry staples, with bold flavor.
- Kid-Approved: Sweet, savory, and cheesy—a surefire hit.
- Customizable Heat: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra kick.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Reheat beautifully for a second round.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 ½ cups onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 4 slices Green Mill Texas Toast (or any garlic Texas toast)
- 1 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
Substitutions and Tips:
- Swap beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.
- Use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smokier flavor.
- Pepper jack or mozzarella can be used in place of cheddar.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions for 7–9 minutes, until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
Tip: Break up the meat with a wooden spoon for even cooking.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the garlic powder, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until thickened.
Tip: Simmer longer for a richer, more concentrated flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Texas Toast
Meanwhile, bake the Texas Toast according to package directions (typically 425°F for 5–7 minutes per side), until golden and crispy.
Tip: For extra crunch, broil the toast for the last 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Once the toast is ready, spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto each slice. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Return to the oven and bake for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with a side of pickles, slaw, or a green salad. Get ready for the perfect bite—crisp toast, savory meat, and gooey cheese!
Serving and Storage Tips
These Sloppy Joes are best served fresh and hot. If you have leftovers, store the meat mixture separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Toast fresh slices when ready to serve again.
Avoid assembling in advance, as the toast may get soggy.
Helpful Notes
- Toast First: Baking the Texas toast before topping keeps it crispy.
- Sweet vs. Savory Balance: Adjust brown sugar to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Cheese Matters: Sharp cheddar adds depth; go for freshly shredded if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular bread instead of Texas toast?
Yes, but choose thick-cut slices and toast them well so they hold up to the topping. - Is there a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! Use lentils or plant-based ground meat and veggie broth instead of beef. - Can I make the meat mixture ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day. Just reheat and assemble when ready. - What sides go well with this?
Coleslaw, baked beans, potato wedges, or a crisp salad are all great options. - Can I freeze the sloppy joe filling?
Definitely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving. - How do I prevent soggy toast?
Always pre-toast and serve immediately after assembly for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are the ultimate mash-up of two comfort food favorites. With buttery, garlicky toast as the base and rich, savory meat piled high, they deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Have you made this dish yet? What toppings or variations did you try? I’d love to hear your twist on this family favorite!
Texas Toast Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 ½ cups onion chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4 slices Green Mill Texas Toast or any garlic Texas toast
- 1 oz cheddar cheese shredded
Substitutions and Tips:
- Swap beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.
- Use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smokier flavor.
- Pepper jack or mozzarella can be used in place of cheddar.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions for 7–9 minutes, until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Tip: Break up the meat with a wooden spoon for even cooking.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
- Stir in the garlic powder, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until thickened.
- Tip: Simmer longer for a richer, more concentrated flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Texas Toast
- Meanwhile, bake the Texas Toast according to package directions (typically 425°F for 5–7 minutes per side), until golden and crispy.
- Tip: For extra crunch, broil the toast for the last 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Once the toast is ready, spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto each slice. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with a side of pickles, slaw, or a green salad. Get ready for the perfect bite—crisp toast, savory meat, and gooey cheese!
Notes
- Toast First: Baking the Texas toast before topping keeps it crispy.
- Sweet vs. Savory Balance: Adjust brown sugar to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Cheese Matters: Sharp cheddar adds depth; go for freshly shredded if possible.
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