Description: A fun and delicious twist on classic sloppy joes, combining the comforting flavors of spaghetti and meat sauce with gooey, melted cheese, all served on toasted buns. These Cheesy Spaghetti Sloppy Joes are a family-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
½ cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked spaghetti, chopped into shorter strands
1 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 hamburger buns, toasted
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Preparation:

This recipe involves browning ground beef, sautéing aromatics, simmering the sauce, melting cheese, and assembling the sloppy joes. Each step is simple and contributes to the overall deliciousness of the dish.

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is crucial for developing the rich, meaty flavor of the sloppy joes. Ensure the beef is evenly browned to prevent any raw spots.

Step 2: Drain excess grease from the skillet. Removing the excess grease keeps the sloppy joes from becoming too heavy and oily. A leaner dish is always more enjoyable.

Step 3: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Sautéing the onion and garlic enhances their flavors, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.

Step 4: Stir in marinara sauce, cooked spaghetti, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–6 minutes. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive and delicious sauce. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Step 5: Reduce heat to low and mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. The cheese adds a creamy, gooey texture and a rich, savory flavor. Ensure the cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

Step 6: Spoon the cheesy spaghetti sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Toasting the buns prevents them from becoming soggy and adds a nice crunch.

Step 7: Top with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired, add the bun top, and serve warm. Garnish with parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

These Cheesy Spaghetti Sloppy Joes are a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods. The combination of spaghetti, meat sauce, and melted cheese creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults. They are also quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich sloppy joes.
Pair with potato chips or french fries for a classic sloppy joe meal.
Offer a simple green salad to balance the meal with some vegetables.
Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthier option.
Consider serving with a pickle spear for added tang and crunch.

Tips:

Use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of grease in the sloppy joes.
Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning to your taste.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use your favorite type of spaghetti sauce for a personalized flavor.
Toast the buns just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Add a layer of lettuce or sliced tomatoes for added freshness and texture.
Mix in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Serve with a side of garlic bread for a more substantial meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving
Protein: Approximately 30g per serving
Sodium: Approximately 800mg per serving

Conclusion:

Cheesy Spaghetti Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party food, these sloppy joes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful combination of spaghetti, meat sauce, and melted cheese in every bite!

Questions and Answers:

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

A1: Yes, you can definitely substitute ground beef with other types of meat. Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent leaner alternatives that will still provide a delicious, savory flavor. You can also use ground pork or even a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a richer taste. Just ensure that you cook the meat thoroughly and drain any excess grease before adding the other ingredients.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the sloppy joe mixture (everything up to the point of adding the cheese) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave, then stir in the cheese and assemble the sloppy joes as directed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or for feeding a crowd.

Q3: What can I add to make this recipe spicier?

A3: If you’re looking to add some heat to your Cheesy Spaghetti Sloppy Joes, there are several ways to do it. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s simmering, or you can use a spicy marinara sauce. Another option is to add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onion and garlic. For an extra kick, you can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sloppy joe mixture or serve the sloppy joes with a side of hot sauce.

Q4: Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?

A4: Yes, you can freeze the sloppy joe mixture for longer storage. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The sloppy joe mixture can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir in the cheese and assemble the sloppy joes as directed.

Q5: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A5: The possibilities are endless when it comes to variations on this recipe! You can add different vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, to the sauce for added nutrients and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, pepper jack, or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile. Another fun variation is to add a layer of crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon on top of the sloppy joes for added texture and flavor. You can also try using different types of buns, such as brioche or pretzel buns, for a more gourmet experience.